Before becoming one of Nollywood’s most respected actors, Olu Jacobs built an impressive career abroad. The late thespian spent years working in British theatre, television and international films.
NBG Africa had reported that the iconic actor died on Wednesday, September 16, by 1.30am. Before his death, Jacobs spent more almost six decades of his life as an actor.
Uncle Olu, as he was fondly, called became a link between Nigeria’s old and new generation of stars. His commanding presence and rich baritone made him a memorable performer. His ability to deliver lines also made him popular with directors. 
Jacobs trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. His training opened doors to major productions in Britain and beyond.
How Olu Jacobs’ Father Objected to His Acting Career
The legendary actor once revealed how his father objected to his career choice when he decided to pursue acting. Jacobs recalled his father’s strong opposition to his decision to travel to England to pursue acting.
He said his father destroyed the passport photograph he submitted after learning about his plans. However, his father’s reaction did not stop him. Jacobs obtained another application form and passport photograph before booking his visa interview. He eventually secured the visa and prepared to leave Nigeria.
Jacobs, who described himself as his father’s only child who regularly sat with him, decided not to reveal his departure. After arriving in London, Jacobs sent his father a letter through a friend travelling to Nigeria.
His father was a piper, so Jacobs, who knew how to win him over, included tobacco with the letter. He also apologised for disobeying his father and explained why he had travelled. According to Jacobs, the tobacco softened his father’s reaction.
After smoking, Jacobs’ father accepted that his son had already made his decision. Sadly, Jacobs never saw his father again. he died before he could return to Nigeria.
His Early Stage Performances
Jacobs began making his mark on the international stage during the 1970s. In 1971, he appeared in Murderous Angels, a political tragedy and comedy. The play was written by Conor Cruise O’Brien. It was performed at the Dublin Theatre Festival that year.
A year later, Jacobs played The Boy in A Taste of Honey. The production was staged at Sheffield’s newly opened Crucible Theatre. In 1974, he played Father Zachary Azuka in Black Man’s Country. The stage production was presented at the Gate Theatre.
He later appeared in Julius Caesar in 1977 at the Royal National Theatre. John Schlesinger directed the production. In 1978, Jacobs played President Mageeba in Night and Day, a production of Tom Stoppard’s play.
British Television Roles
Jacobs also built an extensive television résumé during the 1970s.
His credits included popular British productions such as The Goodies, Till Death Us Do Part and Barlow at Large. He also appeared in The Venturers, Angels, 1990, The Tomorrow People and The Professionals.
His television work helped establish him as a versatile international actor before his rise in Nigerian films.
International Films That Featured Jacobs
Jacobs made his international film debut in Ashanti in 1979. He played Commissioner Batak alongside Michael Caine and Peter Ustinov.
In 1980, he appeared as a Customs Officer in The Dogs of War. John Irvin directed the film, based on Frederick Forsyth’s novel.
Five years later, Jacobs featured as Colonel Nsogbu in Disney’s Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend. He then played Boomako in Roman Polanski’s Pirates in 1986.
Jacobs also appeared in TVS’s The Witches and the Grinnygog.
These productions showcased his talent long before he became a household name in Nollywood.
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