Nollywood icon Olu Jacobs is alive and well, his family confirmed Sunday amid swirling rumors of his death circulating on social media.
Soji, the actor’s eldest son, clarified to Channels Television that his octogenarian father is alive and not deceased as falsely claimed online. Soji shared a video with one of the channel’s correspondents, showing the veteran actor seated calmly while getting his gray beard trimmed by a barber.
Jacobs, 81, has faced persistent death rumors since November 2021, exacerbated by revelations from his actress wife, Joke Silva, about his health challenges. Silva, 62, disclosed in an interview with Channels Television that Jacobs has been battling Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) for several years, leading to his absence from the screen.
Dementia with Lewy bodies is a degenerative brain disease similar to Parkinson’s, affecting cognition and motor functions without visible shaking. Silva expressed the family’s gratitude amidst the challenges, acknowledging the difficult journey they’ve been on.
Despite his health struggles, Jacobs, honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Africa International Film Festival Awards in Lagos, remains actively supported by his devoted wife at social gatherings. Fans continue to rally around the beloved actor, hoping for his continued health and recovery.
