The curtains have fallen on one of Africa’s greatest actors. Veteran Nollywood legend Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs has died at 84.The beloved actor passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2026,
according to a heartfelt statement from his family. His son Olusoji Jacobs shared the news on Instagram, writing on behalf of his mother Joke Silva,
“We thank God for a life well lived and fought. Our husband, father, and grandfather, The Lion of Lufodo, has gone to rest.” The family asked for privacy.
To a whole generation, Olu Jacobs was more than an actor he was the voice that said, “something must kill a man,” a line that became a cultural anthem across Nigeria.
Born in Kano on July 11, 1942, his journey took him from Nigeria to London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, where he cut his teeth on British television before returning to shape Nollywood’s golden era.
With his rich baritone and fatherly grace, he lit up over 120 films and stage plays.
He leaves behind his wife of nearly four decades, actress Joke Silva, children, and a legacy built through Lufodo Academy.
His awards, including AMAA Best Actor and MFR honour, pale next to the lives he touched.
