Veteran Nollywood actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, known professionally as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.
Reports of his passing emerged on Wednesday, September 16. No cause of death has been officially announced.
Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and began his career in British theatre and television.
He appeared in productions such as The Goodies, The Professionals, and The Tomorrow People, as well as international films including The Dogs of War and Pirates.
He later returned to Nigeria, where he became one of the most celebrated figures in Nollywood, renowned for portraying authoritative and complex characters.
In 2011, he received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), and in 2021, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival.
Jacobs was married to veteran actress Joke Silva in 1989. The couple had two children.
He is survived by his wife, children, and a legacy that shaped generations of African cinema.
