Veteran actor Kola Oyewo dies at 80

By Ayo Onikoyi

Veteran actor and theatre icon Dr. Kola Oyewo, best known for his memorable role in the classic film Saworoide, has died at the age of 80.

The death of the celebrated Nollywood actor, dramatist, filmmaker and scholar was announced on Friday by fellow actor Kunle Afod, who paid tribute to the late thespian’s lasting contributions to Nigeria’s theatre and film industry.

In a post shared on Instagram, Afod wrote: “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. It’s a wrap.”

At the time of this report, the cause of his death had not been officially disclosed. The veteran actor had previously revealed that he was battling prostate enlargement, a condition he said had significantly affected his acting career and limited his appearances on screen.

During a visit by Afod to his residence in April 2026, Oyewo explained that the illness had restricted the types of roles he could take, forcing him to reduce his participation in physically demanding productions.

Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba‑Ile, Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. Over the years he rose to become one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

He gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Odewale in The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that earned him recognition across the African theatre landscape and cemented his reputation as a gifted stage performer.

Throughout a distinguished career spanning more than six decades, Oyewo appeared in several acclaimed productions, including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe and the popular television series Super Story, as well as numerous Yoruba-language films that helped shape and expand Nigeria’s movie industry.

Beyond his achievements on stage and screen, Oyewo made significant contributions to academia. He earned a doctorate in Drama from the University of Ibadan and taught at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University.

Through decades of teaching and mentorship, he influenced generations of actors, playwrights and scholars, leaving an enduring legacy in Nigeria’s theatre, film and academic communities.

His passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian theatre and cinema, but his body of work and impact on the arts will continue to inspire future generations.

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