Olu Jacobs is a renowned Nigerian actor and film executive born on July 11, 1942. He’s considered one of the “godfathers of Nollywood” alongside Pete Edochie. Jacobs trained at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in England and worked with various British repertoire theatres.
He began his career starring in British television series and international films, including “The Dogs of War” and “Pirates.” Upon returning to Nigeria in 1990, Jacobs starred in the NTA detective series “The Third Eye” and over 120 Nollywood films.
Jacobs has received numerous awards, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor, Industry Merit Award, and MAA Lifetime Achievement Award. He’s married to fellow actor Joke Silva, and they founded the Lufodo Group, a media corporation.
In 2021, Jacobs faced rumors of his death, but attended the Afriff awards ceremony, where he received a Lifetime Achievement Award. His wife later revealed he’s battling Dementia with Lewy bodies. Jacobs continues to be celebrated for his contributions to Nigerian cinema.
In August 2022, Jacobs and his wife received an icon award and membership certificate from the Audio-Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS), solidifying his legacy in the Nigerian film industry.
Olu Jacobs’ early life was spent in Kano, where he attended Holy Trinity School and developed a passion for acting. He was inspired by Chief Hubert Ogunde’s concert party and pursued acting studies at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in England.
Jacobs’ international career spanned several decades, with notable roles in British television shows like “The Goodies,” “Till Death Us Do Part,” and “The Professionals.” He also appeared in films like “The Dogs of War” and “Pirates.”
READ ALSO: Celebrity Spotlight: Chief Pete Edochie – The Legendary Pillar of Nigerian Cinema
In Nigeria, Jacobs became a household name, starring in numerous Nollywood films and television series, including “The Third Eye.” His partnership with wife Joke Silva led to the establishment of the Lufodo Group, a prominent media corporation.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jacobs has received numerous accolades, including:
– Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role (2007)
– Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (2013)
– MAA Lifetime Achievement Award (2016)
– Lifetime Achievement Award at Afriff (2021)
– Icon award and membership certificate from Audio-Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS) (2022)
Despite battling Dementia with Lewy bodies, Jacobs remains an iconic figure in Nigerian cinema, celebrated for his contributions to the industry.
