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Veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs passed away on September 16, 2026, leaving behind a legendary career that spanned over five decades across stage, television, and international cinema.
Here are 10 things to know about the life and legacy of one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actors.
1. Born in Kano State on July 11, 1942, he hailed from the Egba Alake community in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
2. A live performance by legendary theatre pioneer Hubert Ogunde inspired him to pursue acting professionally.
3. He trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.
4. He built a UK television career with roles in The Goodies, The Professionals, and The Tomorrow People.
5. He starred in major international films, including The Dogs of War (1980), Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend (1985), and Roman Polanski’s Pirates (1986).
6. He anchored Nollywood as a foundational institution through his work in hundreds of films, stage, and television productions.
7. His deep, commanding voice and majestic presence made traditional kings and patriarchs his signature roles.
8. He earned top industry accolades, including the 2007 AMAA Best Actor award, a 2016 AMAA Lifetime Achievement Award, and Nigeria’s national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
9. He and his wife, Joke Silva, co-founded the Lufodo Group and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts to train young creative talent.
10. His monumental career bridged the British stage, international cinema, and African television across generations.
