BREAKING NEWS: Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Veteran Nigerian actor and Nollywood icon, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

The actor’s family confirmed his passing on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, through a statement shared on Instagram by his son, Olusoji Jacobs. The family described him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle, and affectionately referred to him as “The Lion of Lufodo.”

According to the family, Olu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, and died on September 16, 2026.

The statement read in part: “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. The Lion of Lufodo.”

The family also appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy as they mourn the loss.

Olu Jacobs had a remarkable career spanning theatre, television and film. After training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, he worked in British television and international productions before becoming one of the most respected figures in Nigeria’s film industry.

Over the years, he received several honours for his contribution to the arts, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011.

His death marks the end of an extraordinary career that helped shape Nigerian entertainment and left a lasting impression on generations of film lovers.

Photo Credit: Olu Jacobs/Instagram