10 Things To Know About Olu Jacobs(Oludotun Baiyewu Joseph) 1942-2026

Veteran actor, Producer, Cinematographer Olu Jacobs has died at the age of 84 according to a statement on Instagram by his son, Olusoji, after so many false reports of his death before now.

While most Nigerians know the legend as simply Olu Jacobs, we present below ten thins to know about the Nollywood, Hollywood and Theatre veteran.

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1. His full name is Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs
Olu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, to parents from Egba Alake. He spent his early childhood in Kano.

2. Hubert Ogunde inspired his acting career
Jacobs became interested in professional acting after watching one of Chief Hubert Ogunde’s concert parties at the Colonial Hotel in Kano.

3. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts
He travelled to England and studied acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, one of the world’s leading drama schools.

4. He started his professional career in British theatre and television
Before becoming a Nollywood star, Jacobs appeared on the British stage and in television productions including The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, The Tomorrow People and The Professionals.

5. He acted in international films
His international film credits include Ashanti, The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Roman Polanski’s Pirates.

6. He returned to Nigeria in 1990
After years working abroad, Jacobs returned to Nigeria and played Inspector Best Idafa in the NTA detective series The Third Eye.

7. He became one of Nollywood’s most recognisable actors
Jacobs went on to appear in more than 100 Nigerian films, establishing himself as one of the industry’s most respected veteran actors.

8. He has received major national and industry honours
Among his honours are the 2007 Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, the 2011 national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, the 2013 AMVCA Industry Merit Award and the 2016 MAA Lifetime Achievement Award.

9. He and Joke Silva built a film and theatre business together
Jacobs and his wife, actress Joke Silva, founded and operate the Lufodo Group, which includes film production, distribution and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

10. He is regarded as one of the pillars of Nollywood
Jacobs has been described alongside Pete Edochie as one of the “godfathers of Nollywood”, reflecting the influence of his generation on Nigeria’s film industry. His legacy spans theatre, television, international cinema and Nollywood.