Black Wednesday: Nollywood Loses Legend Olu Jacobs At 84
Veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, beloved as Olu Jacobs, died on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 84, after a battle with dementia with Lewy bodies.
His son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced the passing on Instagram on behalf of the family, describing him as a husband, father, grandfather and uncle whose life was well lived and fought.
The announcement immediately threw Nollywood into mourning, with tributes pouring in from every corner of the industry.
Actor Richard Mofe-Damijo set the tone, describing the loss as one that leaves you searching for words.
“To many, he was an icon. A pioneer. A giant of Nigerian theatre and film. To me, he was Uncle Jay. He was one of the men whose presence helped make the path easier for those of us who came after,” RMD stated.
For Muyiwa Ademola, Jacobs was more than an actor, he was an institution.
“Olu Jacobs; a name that became an institution. A voice that commanded attention. A presence that defined generations. You did not merely act, you taught us what acting could be,” he said.
Funke Akindele remembered him as kind and gracious, always willing to support young talents.
“Rest in peace uncle!! Your remarkable legacy and contribution to our industry will never be forgotten. My heartfelt condolences to Aunty Joke Silva, the children, the entire Jacobs family,” she wrote on her Instagram story.
Mercy Johnson held on to memories from set. “Rest On Legend. I could never forget our moments on set, truly precious memories, filled with so much laughter, joy, and, of course, plenty of corrections,” she posted.
Stanley Ontop called it a black Wednesday. Sharing a photo of the legend, he wrote: “Keep resting in the bosom of thy lord legendary Olu Jacobs. You made my childhood memorable. I woke up this morning with tears in my eyes. This one pain me.”
The reflections were just as emotional from the older generation. Yemi Solade paid tribute: “Goodnight LION Of LUFODO. I Celebrate A Creative Life Of Monstrous Impacts.” Theatre Arts President, Mr Latin, added: “A true legend, an icon, and a master of his craft. Your impact on Nigerian theatre and film will forever remain unforgettable.”
Comedy stars also bowed. Mr Macaroni simply called him “Legend, Icon and an absolute Inspiration to us all,” while Broda Shaggi prayed that “his soul find eternal rest at the right hand of God.”
Other voices inc includes Mo Abudu, Susan Peters, Empress Njamah, who said “The Sage finally took an eternal bow,” Desmond Elliot, Madam Saje, Mike Ezuruonye, Toyosi Adesanya, AGN President Emeka Rollas, Banky W, Dare Justified, Enioluwa, and Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and amongst others.
Beyond Nollywood, President Bola Tinubu also mourned the giant, hailing him as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished performers whose career spanned theatre, television and film on a global stage.
Meanwhile, the legend was trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, Jacobs began on British television before returning home to become one of the godfathers of Nollywood.
BY ABDULBAQI JIBREEL AJAO
