Life, times of veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacob

Veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs, known as Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, passed away at the age of 84, according to his son Olusoji Jacobs who announced the news on Instagram. Jacobs had built a distinguished career spanning decades in Nigeria's theatre, television and film industries. Born on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Jacobs developed an early passion for acting through school drama and church programmes.

He later pursued his passion in Britain, studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and working in British theatre and television productions. Upon returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a prominent figure in the country's entertainment industry, often playing authoritative roles such as kings, chiefs, and patriarchs. His deep voice, commanding presence and theatrical background made him an iconic figure in African cinema.

Over his five-decade-long career, Jacobs received numerous accolades including the Africa Movie Academy Award, the Industry Merit Award and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also awarded the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011. Jacobs was married to fellow actress Joke Silva, with whom he founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.

His later years were spent away from the public eye due to health issues, including dementia with Lewy bodies. Despite repeated death rumours, Jacobs' family and colleagues confirmed his continued wellbeing. Jacobs left a lasting legacy in Nigerian entertainment, bridging traditional theatre with modern film and television, and influencing several generations of actors and filmmakers.