He was born on July 11, 1942, in Kano state but originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State. He attended Holy Trinity School, Kano where he was a member of the debating and drama society. Attending one of Chief Hubert Ogunde’s annual concert at the Colonial Hotel in Kano inspired him to take up acting as a profession. He later proceeded to study Theatre Arts in the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA), London.
His professional acting career started in the ’70’s when he appeared in various British television shows and series including The Goodies, Barlow at Large, 1990, The Tomorrow People, The Professionals, Till Death Do Us Part and The Venturers.
In the ’80s, Jacob appeared in several international movies like John Irvin’s war film ‘The Dogs of War’, Roman Polanski’s adventure-comedy ‘Pirates’ and the family-adventure film ‘Baby: Secret of the Lost Legend’. He later came back to Nigeria to promote the country’s movies industry.
Altogether, he has starred in over 200 home videos, 100 stage productions and over 30 television productions in Nigeria alone. Movies he has featured in include; Vigilante, Iva, Aba Riot, Obstacles, Dear Sister, Eye of the Gods, To Love a Stranger, Omaliko, Jealous Heart, 21 Days with Christ, Kingdom Apart, Hidden Treasure, Sacred Lies, A Better Tomorrow, Heroes and Zeroes, Adesuwa, Potomanto, Dry, The Antique, Bloody Ring, Olobiri, Unveil, and The Royal Hibiscus Hotel.
AWARDS
2017 – African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Best Actor in a Supporting Role
2016 – African Movie Academy Awards, Lifetime Achievement Award
2015 – City People Movie, Life Time Achievement Award
2013 – Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards Merit Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Acting
2011 – The Federal Republic of Nigeria, Member of the Federal Republic
2007 – African Movie Academy Awards, Best Actor in a Lead Role
PERSONAL LIFE
Olu Jacobs is married to veteran Nollywood actress, Joke Silva. The couple met at the National Theatre during the 21st Independence anniversary in 1981. They got married in 1989. They are parents to three children; Olusoji Jacobs, Olugbenga Jacobs and Dayo Jacobs.