Nollywood Actor And Varsity Don Kola Oyewo Dies At 80
The Nigerian entertainment and cultural community has lost a keynote veteran Actor, Dramatist, Filmmaker and Scholar, Dr. Kola Oyewo.
His son, Dr. Wale Oyewo broke the news to journalists on Friday evening.
The deceased was born on March 27, 1946, took his last breath on June 12, 2026.
Only months ago, the veteran actor celebrated his 80th birthday and received tributes from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who described him as a national treasure and a worthy ambassador of Yoruba theatre and Nigerian storytelling.
Oyewo was widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian performing arts, with a career spanning more than six decades.
His death marks the end of an illustrious journey that left an indelible mark on Nollywood, academia, and the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Kola Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the legendary Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group before becoming one of the most recognizable faces in Nigerian theatre and film.
He earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s celebrated play, “The Gods Are Not to Blame,” a role that cemented his status as a leading figure in African theatre.
Beyond the stage, he featured prominently in several notable productions including “Saworoide,” “Sango,” “Koseegbe,” “Super Story” and numerous Yoruba-language films.
A distinguished academic, Oyewo held a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan.
He lectured at several institutions, including Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University, and Elizade University.
News of his passing has begun generating reactions from colleagues, former students, and admirers who have described him as a cultural icon whose contributions to theatre, film, and education will remain evergreen.
