Veteran Nollywood Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Legendary Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs

 

Lagos, Nigeria – Legendary Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs has passed away at the age of 84. His death was announced on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, via an Instagram post shared by his son, Olusoji Jacobs.

Quick Facts: Overview of Olu Jacobs' Passing and Legacy

• Name: Olu Jacobs (The Lion of Lufodo)

• Date of Death: Wednesday, September 16, 2026

• Age at Passing: 84 years old (Born in 1942)

• Announced By: Olusoji Jacobs (Son)

• Spouse: Veteran actress Joke Silva

Family Statement and Privacy Request

In the official announcement, Olusoji Jacobs paid tribute to his father:

"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."

The family has requested that bloggers and social media influencers respect their privacy during the mourning period, adding: "We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family's privacy at this time."

A Legendary Career Spanning Over Five Decades

Born in 1942, Olu Jacobs built an illustrious career spanning more than fifty years across both the United Kingdom and Nigeria.

• International Training and Early Work: He trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. His early screen credits included classic British television series such as The Goodies and The Professionals, alongside various international film appearances.

• Pioneering Nollywood: In the 1980s, Jacobs returned to Nigeria to help pioneer and build the emerging Nollywood film industry. He cemented an enduring legacy by portraying authoritative monarchs and beloved father figures.

• Awards and Honors: In 2011, he was conferred with the national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). He also received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA).

Together with his wife of nearly four decades, Joke Silva, he co-founded Lufodo Group, a media and performing arts firm dedicated to training generations of creative talent.

Health Background and Final Years

In his later years, Jacobs navigated a severe personal health challenge. In 2021, Joke Silva revealed that he had been diagnosed with Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB), a progressive neurodegenerative condition. This public disclosure helped put an end to years of recurring internet hoaxes regarding his health.