Olu Jacobs’ Life and Career

Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, was a Nigerian actor and film executive born in Abeokuta, Nigeria, on 11 July 1942, and sadly passed away on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84, a true legend in Nollywood. He is survived by his wife Joke Silva and children Olusoji Jacobs, Olugbenga Jacobs and Nayo Jacobs. 

The veteran Nollywood Actor, Olu Jacobs, was also known as the Godfather of Nollywood. His family addressed him as the Lion of Iofoda. Before coming to Nollywood and establishing himself as an actor Olu Jacobs acted in Western movies like The Dogs of War in 1980, Baby; Secret of the Lost Legend in 1985, Pirates in 1986, Ashanti in 1979 and lots more. He’s indeed a once in a lifetime Versatile actor with a golden talent in acting. 

Upon coming to Nigeria he became a hit not only for his impeccable acting skills, but for his booming and majestic voice. Some of his iconic Nollywood & African films are: Dancing Heart (2006), a spectacular performance that won him the prestigious Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) for Best Leading Actor, Olobiri (2015), The Royal Hibis Hotel (2017), Adesuwa (2012), Day (2015), The Antique (2014).

Olu Jacobs Awards and Merits

1. AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016
2. AMAA Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007
3. Industry Merit Award in 2013
4. Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021
5. Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR – 2011) conferred by the federal government of Nigeria under President Goodluck Jonathan.
6. City People Movie Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015.

Mr Olu Jacobs has indeed lived a memorable and inspiring life and even at the end of his lifetime he was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia (LBD), which is a progressive and degenerative neurological disease. It is caused by abnormal protein deposits (called Lewy bodies) developing in nerve cells in the brain regions involved in thinking memory and movement. 

His beloved wife, Joke Silva, publicly revealed his diagnosis in November 2021 to clarify various speculations about his health, and absence from the movie industry, amid the lies and fake news flying around about his demise. Praise for his wife Joke Silva arose from all, she was applauded for her steadfastness in staying with him until his last days, even with his illness, memory loss and everything that changed in the family as they adapted. 

Olu Jacobs lived a very fulfilling life. When the announcement of his death on September 16th 2026 was made public by his son many expressed confusion thinking Olu Jacobs was dead, but now he has finally gone to rest not only as a father, husband or father but as a Legend the Nigerian entertainment industry will forever remember. 

Olu Jacobs has been a great part of many Nigerians’ childhood, his works and his words of encouragement will be carried on by those who came after him. Olu Jacobs leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will continue to live on in Nollywood and in the hearts of millions of fans. 

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From his early career in international productions to his remarkable journey in the Nigerian film industry, he became one of the most respected and recognisable faces in Nollywood. His powerful voice, memorable performances and dedication to acting made him a true icon of Nigerian entertainment. His contributions to the film industry earned him several awards and honours throughout his career, while his performances inspired many actors. 

Together with his wife, Joke Silva, and his family, Olu Jacobs became an important part of Nigerian popular culture. His movies, achievements and decades of work will continue to be remembered by generations of Nigerians and movie lovers around the world.