Following the death of veteran Nigerian actor and film executive Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, at the age of 84, here are 10 things to know about the celebrated actor and his remarkable career.
1. His Full Name Was Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs
Olu Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942. He spent part of his childhood in Kano, where his interest in acting and theatre began to develop.
2. Hubert Ogunde Inspired His Acting Career
Jacobs became interested in professional acting after watching a performance by legendary Nigerian theatre practitioner Hubert Ogunde. The experience reportedly inspired him to pursue acting professionally.
3. He Trained At The Royal Academy Of Dramatic Art
Jacobs travelled to the United Kingdom, where he studied acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, one of the world’s renowned drama institutions.
4. He Began His Career In Britain
Before becoming a household name in Nigeria, Jacobs built his acting experience in British theatre and television. He appeared in several television productions and stage plays.
5. He Featured In International Productions
Jacobs also appeared in international films and television productions, working alongside actors and filmmakers outside Nigeria before eventually establishing himself as a major figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
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6. He Became A Major Figure In Nollywood
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs featured in numerous Nigerian films and became one of the industry’s most recognisable veteran actors. His career spanned theatre, television and film.
7. He Was Married To Actress Joke Silva
Olu Jacobs was married to veteran Nigerian actress Joke Silva. The couple met through their involvement in theatre and became one of Nigeria’s most prominent acting couples.
8. He Was Involved In The Lufodo Group
Jacobs and his wife were closely associated with the Lufodo Group, which has been involved in theatre, film production and the development of Nigeria’s performing arts industry.
9. He Received Several Industry Honours
Throughout his career, Jacobs received numerous awards and recognitions for his contribution to acting and the Nigerian film industry, including major lifetime achievement and industry merit honours.
10. His Death Was Announced By His Son
Olu Jacobs died at the age of 84, with his son, Olusoji Jacobs, announcing his passing on Wednesday. In announcing his death, the family described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy.
Olu Jacobs leaves behind a decades-long legacy in Nigerian theatre, television, film and the wider African entertainment industry, having influenced generations of performers and audiences through his work.