Nollywood has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor and cultural icon, Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at the age of 84.
His wife, celebrated actress Joke Silva, announced his death in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Sharing a photograph of the veteran actor, Silva wrote: “It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle.” 
She described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and identified him as Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR), giving his dates as July 11, 1942 – September 16, 2026.
Silva also appealed to the media and members of the public to respect the family’s privacy as they mourn the veteran actor.
“ We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time,” she added.
Born in 1942, Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most recognisable and respected screen and stage actors. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and began his professional career in British theatre and television before returning to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s growing film industry.
His international credits included appearances in productions such as The Dogs of War, Pirates and Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend, while his extensive Nigerian film career helped establish him as one of the defining actors of the Nollywood era.
Over a career spanning several decades, Jacobs appeared in more than 100 films and became particularly known for portraying authoritative, complex and commanding characters.
His contribution to African cinema earned him several honours, including the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007 and lifetime achievement recognition from major industry bodies.
Jacobs and Joke Silva, who married in 1989, became one of Nigeria’s most celebrated couples in the entertainment industry.
The veteran actor’s death also brings to an end a remarkable career that helped bridge Nigeria’s early stage and television traditions with the modern Nollywood era.
The news comes years after false reports of his death circulated online. His family had previously dismissed such reports and publicly confirmed that he was alive.
Olu Jacobs is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, their children and grandchildren.
