Nollywood Icon Olu Jacobs Remembered: Stars Mourn a Legendary Loss

A star-studded evening of tributes and performances recently unfolded in Lagos, honoring the indelible legacy of the late Nigerian movie icon, Olu Jacobs, who passed away on September 16, 2026. The poignant event drew together top Nollywood stars, esteemed cultural figures, and government dignitaries, all united in celebrating a man who left an profound mark on the industry and countless lives.

Among the many who shared heartfelt recollections was his wife, veteran actress Joke Silva, alongside their sons Gbenga and Soji. Soji Jacobs offered an intimate glimpse into his father's personal life, revealing a man who, despite his public persona, fiercely protected his family's privacy. "I didn't really watch his films back then. For me, he was simply Dad," Soji shared. "We were very close because he was magnetic and genuine in his movement. As much as the industry loved him and as possessive as they were of him, he always drew a fine line between that world and ours. He protected our privacy fiercely."

Professional colleagues also recalled Jacobs' immense influence. Actor Norbert Young recounted their extensive years working together on the iconic 1980s detective series, 'Third Eye.' Young emphasized Jacobs' unwavering discipline and invaluable professional mentorship. "He loved to talk back then, and I loved to listen," Young stated, adding, "I became the actor I am today from listening to him at least once a week during the time we shot 'Third Eye.'"

Playwright and scholar Ahmed Yerima injected warmth into the occasion with a lighthearted anecdote, illustrating the profound intensity Jacobs brought to every role. Yerima humorously recalled a moment when he forgot his lines during a scene with Jacobs: "The only time I forgot the lines in my own play was when Uncle Olu and I were playing a scene, and he started crying. I was like, 'I never remembered writing tears into this scene.' But he made that moment unforgettable."

Actresses Hilda Dokubo and Kate Henshaw centered their tributes on Jacobs' paternal nature and extraordinary generosity behind the scenes. Dokubo recollected being awe-struck during her first work alongside him, remembering how he calmed her initial nervousness. "I was mopping and not looking. He later touched me and I thought I would jump out of my skin, but he calmed me down and said, 'Don't worry, everything will be OK. Read with me.' That was how I finally got comfortable," Dokubo shared. Henshaw further elaborated on his legendary thoughtfulness, recalling a time when the crew was nearly stranded on a remote set. "Uncle Olu just said, 'Never mind.' He brought out his leather bag, and inside were mixed vegetables, sausages, and everything we needed," she detailed, highlighting his preparedness and care.

Sola Sobowale spoke of a pivotal moment early in her career when Jacobs' praise provided a significant boost to her confidence. "Uncle Olu stood among us, looked at me, and said to the room, 'Have you seen Sola Sobowale? She is a great actor.' That moment changed everything for me," Sobowale affirmed. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) expressed deep gratitude for Jacobs' enduring mentorship, sharing a lifelong lesson imparted by the veteran actor: "There are no small actors, and there are no small lines. But if you are not mindful of the small lines, you will become a small actor." This profound teaching, RMD noted, has guided his career throughout.

The collective tributes painted a vivid picture of Olu Jacobs not just as a gifted actor, but as a compassionate mentor, a dedicated family man, and a cultural icon whose influence continues to resonate within the Nigerian creative landscape.