Veteran Nollywood actor and film executive, Oludotun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, confirmed the actor’s death in an emotional statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday on behalf of the family.
The statement read: “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 its privacy during the period of mourning.
Born on July 11, 1942, Olu Jacobs built a distinguished career spanning British television, theatre and Nollywood. He trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London before featuring in several international productions.
With more than 100 film credits, Jacobs earned widespread recognition for his commanding screen presence and distinctive voice. His achievements included the 2007 Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Actor in a Leading Role and the 2011 conferment of the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Together with his wife and celebrated actress, Joke Silva, he co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, contributing to the development of Nigeria’s creative industry.
His death marks the loss of one of Africa’s most respected actors, whose work and influence left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
