Nollywood Mourns as Veteran Actor Kola Oyewo Passes Away at 80
The Nigerian creative and academic communities are mourning the passage of veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist, filmmaker, and scholar, Dr. Kola Oyewo, who has passed away at the age of 80.
His demise was announced on Friday by contemporary filmmaker and actor, Kunle Afod, via a poignant tribute shared on Instagram.
"Kola Oyewo has taken his final bow," Afod wrote. "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. It’s a wrap."
A Towering Legacy on Stage and Screen
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Dr. Oyewo’s illustrious journey in the creative arts began in 1964 when he joined the legendary Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. Over the next six decades, he evolved into one of the most revered icons of Yoruba theatre and mainstream Nigerian cinema.
Oyewo achieved widespread critical acclaim for his masterful portrayal of King Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s seminal tragedy, The Gods Are Not to Blame—a performance that solidified his reputation as a titan across the African theatre landscape.
His extensive filmography spans over 60 years and includes defining roles in cinematic masterpieces such as:
Saworoide
Koseegbe
Sango
Super Story (Television Series)
Through his nuanced performances, particularly in indigenous Yoruba-language productions, Oyewo played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural identity, growth, and global popularity of the modern Nigerian film industry (Nollywood).
From the Theatre to the Ivory Tower
Beyond his celebrated achievements under the spotlight, Dr. Oyewo carved out an equally distinguished career in academia.
A consummate intellectual, he earned a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan. He subsequently dedicated decades to nurturing future talent, serving as a lecturer, researcher, and mentor at several prestigious institutions, including:
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
Redeemer’s University
Elizade University
Through his dual legacy as an elite performer and an academic, Dr. Oyewo bridged the gap between theory and practice, training generations of contemporary actors, playwrights, and cultural scholars who continue to drive the industry forward.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in due course.