Veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist, filmmaker and academic, Dr Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80, bringing to a close a distinguished career that spanned more than six decades in Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.
The death of the revered thespian was announced on Friday by fellow actor Kunle Afod in a post shared on Instagram.
Afod paid tribute to the late actor, describing him as a gifted performer whose contributions to the growth of Nigerian theatre and cinema would remain unforgettable.
Oyewo, who was born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, began his acting journey in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. Over the years, he rose to prominence as one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and the Nigerian movie industry.
He gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Odewale in the celebrated play, The Gods Are Not to Blame, written by renowned playwright Ola Rotimi.
The role earned him recognition beyond Nigeria and cemented his place among Africa’s leading stage actors.
Throughout his illustrious career, Oyewo featured in several notable productions, including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe, Super Story and numerous Yoruba-language films that helped shape and expand Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
Beyond his accomplishments on stage and screen, the late actor made significant contributions to academia. He obtained a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan and lectured at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University.
Widely respected for his commitment to nurturing young talents, Oyewo mentored generations of actors, playwrights and scholars, leaving an enduring legacy in Nigeria’s theatre, film and academic communities.
His death has sparked tributes from colleagues, students and admirers who celebrated his immense contributions to the arts and his lasting impact on the development of Nigerian culture and entertainment.