Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television, and film.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nollywood stars have expressed their sadness over the death of veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, while paying tribute to him on social media.
The legendary thespian died at the age of 84, according to an announcement shared on Instagram on Wednesday by his son, Olusoji Jacobs.
While confirming his demise, Olusoji noted that the family was grateful for his life and asked the public to respect their privacy.
He wrote: “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.
“We call on all bloggers and social media influencers to respect our family’s privacy at this time.”
Following the announcement, several celebrities took to the comment section of the post to praise him and commiserate with the family.
His colleague, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, with whom he trained at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, hailed Jacobs, noting the “special magic he brought to his baritone voice and his unique ability to imbue words with their true meanings”.
Also mourning him, ace actress and movie producer Funke Akindele wrote: “May his soul rest in peace.”
Ini Edo added: “Rest well, Uncle! You will forever be in our hearts.”
Another movie star, Yul Edochie, called him a “legend and a great uncle”, sharing that he would slash his fee just to be on set with Olu Jacobs because he learned so much studying his accommodating nature and acting style.
ALSO READ: 10 things you may not have known about Olu Jacobs
Also commenting, Williams Uchemba wrote: “A life well spent. Rest well, Legend.”
Mr Macaroni said: “Legend, Icon, and an absolute inspiration to us all!”
Broda Shaggi reacted: “May his soul find eternal rest at the right hand of God, and may his memory live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.”
Bukky Wright said Jacobs left an unforgettable legacy in the hearts of movie lovers, noting that his light would continue to shine through every life he touched.
Kehinde Bankole commented: “A beautiful life! A legendary legacy! A peaceful rest. All is well… Journey well, sir.”
Ken Erics said: “May God bless his soul. Forever in our hearts.”
Meanwhile, veteran actress Patience Ozokwor expressed deep emotional sorrow over witnessing his health challenges, noting that thinking about his situation brings her “profound sadness and reflects the tight-knit bond of their pioneering generation.”
Olu Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors, with a career spanning theatre, television, and film.
He began his career in British television and later featured in several international productions before returning to Nigeria, where he became a major figure in the country’s film industry.
He went on to star in numerous Nigerian films and became widely recognised for his commanding performances, earning several industry honours, including the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival.
He was married to another Nigerian movie icon, Joke Silva, with whom he formed the Lufodo Group, which played a major role in the development of the performing arts in Nigeria.
