The Nigerian movie industry has been thrown into mourning as veteran actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs popularly known as Olu Jacobs has died at age 81.

The legendary actor, known for his exceptional talent and contributions to Nollywood, died on the early hours of Sunday, June 30, 2024 after a long battle with an undisclosed illness.

Born on July 11, 1942, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Olu Jacobs studied acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London. He began his career in the United Kingdom, where he featured in various British television shows and films before returning to Nigeria in the late 1980s. His return marked the beginning of a prolific career in Nollywood, where he quickly became a household name.

Jacobs, whose career spanned over five decades, was celebrated for his versatile roles in both television and film. He was widely regarded as one of the pillars of Nollywood, having appeared in over 200 movies and numerous television productions.