Veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist, filmmaker, and academic Kola Oyewo has died at the age of 80.
His passing was announced on Friday by actor Kunle Afod in an Instagram post.
“Kola Oyewo has taken his final bow. His remarkable talent, timeless performances, and immense contributions to the Nigerian theatre and film industry will never be forgotten. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest well, sir. Your work lives on,” Afod wrote.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group and went on to become one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigeria’s film industry.
He was widely celebrated for his portrayal of Odewale in The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that earned him national recognition.
During a career that spanned more than six decades, Oyewo appeared in acclaimed productions such as Saworoide, Sango, and Super Story, alongside numerous Yoruba-language films that helped shape the growth of Nollywood.
Beyond the stage and screen, Oyewo built a distinguished academic career. He earned a doctorate in Drama from University of Ibadan and lectured at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University, and Elizade University.
His death marks the end of an era for Nigerian theatre and film, where he was revered both as a performer and mentor to generations of actors and scholars.
