Nollywood veteran Olu Jacobs is alive, his family confirmed on Sunday, countering the death rumors circulating on social media. Soji, the first son of the legendary actor, said that his 80-year-old father is not dead as rumored online.
Soji shared a video with a correspondent, showing his father calmly seated while getting his grey beard shaved. In the video, the frail-looking Jacobs is seen conversing briefly with his barber and those around him.
Rumors about Jacobs’ death have surfaced multiple times since November 2021, when his actress wife, Joke Silva, revealed his health struggles. The family has repeatedly debunked these rumors, posting videos and photos to discredit the misinformation.
In 2021, Silva, a respected actress and Jacobs’ longtime wife, disclosed that her husband has been battling Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) for several years, explaining his absence from the screen. “It is a degenerative disease that affects the brain and is almost like Parkinson’s, but without the shaking,” she said. “It’s been hard on him because he doesn’t understand what is going on, and also on family members. We thank God for moments of clarity.”
A video shared by #Olujacobs family reveals he’s very much alive. It’s sad seeing the news of his death while he’s still alive.
He’s been battling with Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) for a couple of years now.
This disease affects the brain and it is almost like a Parkinson’s.… pic.twitter.com/zYw5O3YjesAdvertisement— MayGist (@MayGistv) June 30, 2024
Despite his condition, Jacobs won a lifetime achievement award at the Africa International Film Festival Awards in Lagos that same year. He shared a pale-looking photo on Instagram, attracting sympathy, best wishes, and prayers from friends and fans. The legendary actor has also been seen at select social events, supported by his devoted wife, while fans continue to hope for his recovery.
