The African entertainment world is in mourning following the death of legendary Nollywood actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, universally known as Olu Jacobs. He passed away at the age of 84 on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.

The sad news was officially announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, via a heartfelt Instagram post. In his statement, the family expressed gratitude for his long and impactful life, affectionately describing the late patriarch as the "Lion of Lufodo". His wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, also issued a statement confirming the news and called on the public, bloggers, and influencers to respect the family's privacy as they navigate this difficult time.

Born on July 11, 1942, Jacobs trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. He spent the early years of his career building a solid resume on British television and in international films before returning home to become a cornerstone of the Nigerian movie industry. Often regarded alongside Pete Edochie as a foundational pillar of Nollywood, Jacobs commanded widespread respect across the continent for his authoritative and commanding screen presence.

Throughout his illustrious career spanning over five decades, he featured in countless iconic productions, cementing his legacy as a revered father figure to generations of actors. He had largely stepped back from the public eye in recent years following a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia, a condition his wife publicly revealed in 2021.

His passing leaves a massive void in the cinematic landscape, but his monumental contributions to the arts ensure his legacy will endure. Tributes have already begun pouring in from colleagues, fans, and dignitaries across the globe, celebrating a life genuinely well-lived.