Olu Jacobs, born Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs on July 11, 1942, in Kano, Nigeria, is a highly respected Nigerian actor and film executive. He is widely regarded as one of the “godfathers of Nollywood,” alongside Pete Edochie.
Career
Jacobs spent his early childhood in Kano and attended Holy Trinity School, where he participated in debating and drama societies. His interest in acting was sparked by attending Chief Hubert Ogunde’s annual concert parties at the Colonial Hotel in Kano. This experience inspired him to pursue acting professionally. He later traveled to England to study acting. He trained at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London.
Jacobs began his career in the 1970s, appearing in various British television series and international films. Some of his early roles include appearances in “The Goodies,” “Till Death Us Do Part,” “Barlow at Large,” “The Venturers,” “Angels,” “1990,” “The Tomorrow People,” and “The Professionals.” He also played President Mageeba in a 1978 production of Tom Stoppard’s play “Night and Day.”
Nollywood Career and Later Years
In the 1980s, Jacobs featured in international films such as “The Dogs of War” (1980), “Pirates” (1986), and “Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend” (1985). Upon returning to Nigeria in 1990, he starred in the NTA detective series “The Third Eye.”
Awards and Recognition
Jacobs has starred in over 120 Nollywood films and is considered one of the top Nigerian Nollywood actors. He has also appeared in television commercials. He is seen as a bridge between the old and new generations of actors. He has also played a pivotal role in shaping the industry and inspiring generations of actors.
Personal Life
Jacobs has received numerous accolades throughout his career. He won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007. He was honored with the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and received the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. In 2021, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).
Relationship
Jacobs has been married to fellow Nollywood actor Joke Silva since 1989, and they have two children. Together, they founded and operate the Lufodo Group, a media corporation involved in film production, distribution, and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
Olu Jacobs’s career has spanned over five decades, and he is celebrated as a cultural icon and one of the most influential actors in African cinema.
Health Challenges
In recent years, Jacobs has been battling Dementia with Lewy bodies, as revealed by his wife, Joke Silva.
