Africa Magic is set to honour one of Nollywood's most celebrated actors with a new documentary dedicated to the life and career of the late Sir Olu Jacobs. Titled Doyen of Nollywood: Celebrating Olu Jacobs, the documentary will explore the remarkable career of the veteran actor, who died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. It will take viewers through his work in theatre, television and film and examine the influence he had on Nigeria's entertainment industry.
A Career That Stretched Across Generations
Olu Jacobs was not simply known as a Nollywood actor. His career began long before the Nigerian film industry as audiences know it today had taken shape. After training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, Jacobs worked in British theatre and television and appeared in international productions including The Dogs of War, Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend and Pirates.
His career eventually earned him several major honours, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007, the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic in 2011 and the industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards in 2013.
More Than the Characters He Played
The upcoming documentary is expected to go beyond a simple look at Jacobs' filmography. According to reports, Doyen of Nollywood will feature reflections from people who knew and worked with the actor, including his wife and fellow actress Joke Silva, as well as Richard Mofe-Damijo, Patience Ozokwor, Kate Henshaw, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett and other industry figures.
Their recollections will offer audiences an opportunity to see the man behind the memorable characters and understand the impact his career has on colleagues and younger generations of performers. Jacobs was also involved in developing talent through the Lufodo Academy, which trained actors, directors and other creatives. His influence therefore extended beyond what audiences saw on screen.
When and where to watch
Doyen of Nollywood: Celebrating Olu Jacobs is scheduled to premiere on Africa Magic Showcase on Friday, September 25, at 6:35 p.m. There will also be repeat broadcasts on September 26, September 28 and September 30. For many Nigerian viewers, the documentary will provide an opportunity to revisit the career of an actor whose work spanned decades and multiple generations of audiences.
Olu Jacobs may no longer be here to create new characters, but through his films, students, colleagues and the stories of those who worked alongside him, his contribution to Nigerian entertainment continues to be remembered.
