Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at age 84. Jacobs's family announced the news as Olusoji Jacobs, the late legendary actor's son, wrote a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, stating, "It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, The Lion of Lufodo." While no further details were shared regarding the cause of his death, the family urged all social media influencers to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
The statement added, "We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family's privacy at this time." Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria's towering figures in the performing arts, with a career spanning several decades across theatre, television, and film. Besides his on-screen career, he was instrumental in uplifting Nigerian cinema as a film executive. Jacobs was born on July 11, 1942, and later moved to London, where he studied performing arts at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
The late actor was well-recognized for his magnetic screen presence and memorable performances in both Nigerian and international productions. In 2011, Jacobs was awarded the national honor of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in recognition of his contributions to the Nigerian film industry. Throughout his stunning career that spanned over five decades, Jacobs received a multitude of accolades, including the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role and prestigious lifetime achievement honors.