Ghanaian actor Van Vicker has paid tribute to veteran Nollywood actor Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, saying he played an important part in the early stages of his career in Nigeria.
Jacobs died aged 84 on Wednesday, September 16, his son, Olusoji Jacobs, announced.
Van Vicker said his first job in Nigeria, in 2005/06, was with Jacobs, who offered him advice at the start of his professional journey.
“The veteran has bowed out. OMG! My very first job in Nigeria in 2005/06 was with Olu Jacobs. He gave me a few tips. Amazing actor. RIP my legend,” Van Vicker wrote in a social media post.
The tribute followed confirmation of Jacobs’ death by his family, who asked the public to respect their privacy while they mourned.
Olusoji Jacobs described his father as a husband, father, grandfather and uncle in the family’s announcement.
“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and fought, that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather and uncle. The Lion of Lufodo,” he wrote.
The family also appealed directly to bloggers and social media influencers to allow them privacy during the mourning period.
Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most prominent veteran actors and worked across theatre, television and film during a career that extended over several decades.
He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London before beginning his professional career in British theatre and television. He later appeared in international productions.
After returning to Nigeria, Jacobs became a major figure in the country’s film industry, establishing a reputation through appearances in Nigerian and international productions.
His work across different parts of the entertainment industry made him a widely recognised figure in African film and television.
The news of his death has prompted tributes from colleagues and others across the African entertainment industry, including Van Vicker, who credited Jacobs with helping him when he began working in Nigeria.
For Van Vicker, Jacobs’ influence was linked not only to his standing as an accomplished actor but also to the guidance he provided during the Ghanaian actor’s first professional job in the country.
About the Author
