The Story⚡
A legend of Nigerian screen and stage, Olu Jacobs, has left the stage for the last time. Yet this weekend, his story returns in full view. What does a documentary reveal when the people who knew him best speak?
Tell Me More
Africa Magic will present Doyen of Nollywood: Celebrating Olu Jacobs, a documentary dedicated to the late Sir Olu Jacobs, who died on 16 September 2026. The film airs first on Africa Magic Showcase on Friday, 25 September at 6:35 pm, with multiple rebroadcasts across Africa Magic channels in the days that follow. Directed by filmmaker Femi Odugbemi and produced by Zuri 24 Media, the work traces Jacobs’ path through theatre, television and film, and examines the lasting imprint he left on Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
A Career Defined by Range and Discipline
Olu Jacobs stood among the most respected actors of his generation. Across several decades, he moved with ease between stage and screen, building a reputation for versatility, careful preparation, and a deep commitment to his craft. His performances were widely recognised, yet his influence stretched further: he helped shape professional standards in Nigerian acting and became a reference point for younger performers who followed.
Voices Who Shared the Journey
Doyen of Nollywood gathers reflections from people who knew and worked with him. Contributors include Joke Silva, Afolabi Adesanya, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Patience Ozokwor, Kate Henshaw and Jahman Anikulapo. Their accounts move beyond the roles audiences remember. They speak of the discipline, professionalism and quiet authority that marked Jacobs’ working life, offering a fuller picture of the man behind the characters.
When and Where to Watch
The premiere is set for Africa Magic Showcase on Friday, 25 September at 6:35 pm. Rebroadcasts follow on the same channel: Saturday 26 September at 10:30 pm, Monday 28 September at 4:30 pm, and Wednesday 30 September at 2:35 pm.
Additional airings appear on Africa Magic Epic: Sunday 27 September at 10:05 pm, Monday 28 September at 6:30 pm, Tuesday 29 September at 1:55 pm, and Wednesday 30 September at 4:20 pm. Africa Magic Family carries the documentary on Saturday 26 September at 7:30 pm, with further showings on Sunday 27 September at 5:00 pm and Tuesday 29 September at 1:00 pm.
These schedules give audiences across the Africa Magic platform repeated chances to revisit Jacobs’ contribution to Nigerian theatre, television and film.
In Summary
Doyen of Nollywood does more than mark a departure. It gathers the voices of those who shared the work and places Jacobs’ long career in clear view, inviting audiences to recognise both the performances that remain and the standards he set for the industry that continues after him.
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