Nigerian film icon and stage thespian Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, in a statement released on social media by his wife, actress Joke Silva, and their son.
“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 said. “We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
Olu Jacobs’ passing comes after years of false reports and hoaxes about his death, which were repeatedly debunked.
In his later years, he faced significant health challenges, with his wife Joke Silva revealing in 2021 that he had been diagnosed with Dementia with Lewy Bodies, a progressive brain condition that gradually limited his public appearances until his death in 2026.
Born in 1942 and raised partly in Kano, he found his path into acting after watching Hubert Ogunde’s travelling theatre, then sharpened his craft at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
Years of British stage and television work followed, including appearances in the 1970s sitcom “Till Death Us Do Part,” “The Goodies,” and the 1980 action film “The Dogs of War,” before he returned to Nigeria and became one of the industry’s most revered figures.
Olu Jacobs brought a rare gravity to Nollywood screens with measured delivery and an unmistakable screen authority. His charisma and stern presence often landed him roles as king, fathers and elders in many of the earlier Nollywood productions.
Away from the camera, he and his wife, Joke Silva, built the Lufodo Group, extending their work into theatre, film and training.