Biography of Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs a.k.a Olu Jacobs
Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, known professionally as Olu Jacobs, was born to parents from Egba Alake. His early years were shaped in Kano, where he attended Holy Trinity School and actively participated in debating and drama societies. His passion for acting was ignited when he attended Chief Hubert Ogunde’s concert party in Kano, prompting him to pursue a career in acting.
Jacobs journeyed to England, where he received formal training at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London. His career began with notable stage roles, including playing The Boy in ‘A Taste of Honey’ at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre in 1972. He then appeared in various British television shows throughout the 1970s, such as The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part, and The Professionals.
In 1978, Jacobs portrayed President Mageeba in Sir Tom Stoppard’s play ‘Night and Day,’ marking a significant milestone in his theatrical career. Transitioning into international films in the 1980s, he appeared in acclaimed movies like ‘The Dogs of War,’ ‘Pirates’ directed by Roman Polanski, and ‘Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend.’
Returning to Nigeria in 1990, Jacobs starred in the renowned NTA detective series ‘The Third Eye,’ solidifying his influence in Nigerian television. He has since featured in over 120 Nollywood films, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the Nigerian film industry.
Outside of acting, Jacobs is married to fellow Nollywood actress Joke Silva since 1989. Together, they have two children. They co-founded the Lufodo Group, a prominent media corporation encompassing film production, distribution assets, and the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts.
Despite rumors of his demise in 2021, Jacobs resurfaced at Afriff in November 2021, where he received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. His wife, Joke Silva, disclosed in an interview that Jacobs is battling Dementia with Lewy bodies.
Jacobs has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and an icon award from the Audio-Visual Rights Society of Nigeria (AVRS) in August 2022, alongside his wife. He reportedly has a net worth of $2 million. Even in his later years, Olu Jacobs remains a respected figure in the movie industry, revered for his contributions and considered among the very best despite reducing his acting roles.
