Veteran actor Olu Jacobs dies at 84

Veteran Nigerian actor Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, is dead at the age of 84.

News of his death was announced by his family on Instagram on Wednesday.

Sharing a photo of the actor, the family 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. The Lion of Lufodo.
Oludotun Baiyewun Jacobs (MFR)
11/07/ 1942- 16/09/2026
We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our families privacy at this time.”

His death comes after several false reports of his passing over the years.

In June 2020, the Actors Guild of Nigeria dismissed a report of his death as fake news. The guild said Jacobs was alive and urged the public to disregard the rumour.

Similar reports resurfaced in October 2021, with the Actors Guild of Nigeria again confirming that the actor was alive. His wife, actress Joke Silva, also dismissed the report.

In August 2022, Silva again debunked reports of her husband’s death and warned against spreading false information about him.

Another death rumour circulated in June 2024. His son, Olusoji Jacobs, shared a video of his father, while people close to the family also dismissed the report.

Jacobs had been away from  acting in his later years due to health challenges.

In 2021, Silva revealed that her husband had been diagnosed with dementia with Lewy bodies, a condition that affects the brain. She said the condition had been affecting him for several years.

Jacobs began his acting career in Britain after studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. He appeared in British television productions and international films before returning to Nigeria, where he became one of the country’s most recognised actors.

He went on to feature in more than 100 films and became known for his work in both Nigerian film and theatre.

Jacobs and Silva established Lufodo Productions in 1985. The company was involved in stage and film production, while Jacobs also continued his work as an actor and producer.

He received several honours during his career, including the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.

Jacobs is survived by his wife, Joke Silva, and their family.