Nollywood Mourns as Veteran Actor and Theatre Icon Kola Oyewo Dies at 80
Nollywood Mourns as Veteran Actor and Theatre Icon Kola Oyewo Dies at 80
By Akin Alade
Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the reported death of veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist, scholar, and cultural icon, Kola Oyewo, at the age of 80.
The late actor was widely regarded as one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian performing arts, having dedicated more than six decades to acting, teaching, and cultural preservation. His passing marks the end of an era for generations of theatre practitioners, filmmakers, academics, and lovers of indigenous storytelling.
Born in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Kola Oyewo built an illustrious career that spanned stage performances, television productions, movies, and academia. He began his acting journey with the legendary Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group before rising to national prominence through his outstanding performances in stage plays and films. He became particularly renowned for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic drama, The Gods Are Not to Blame.
Throughout his distinguished career, Oyewo featured in several acclaimed productions, including Sango, Saworoide, Koseegbe, O Le Ku, and numerous Yoruba-language films that helped shape Nigeria’s indigenous movie industry. His remarkable ability to interpret complex characters earned him admiration across generations of audiences.
Beyond acting, Oyewo made significant contributions to education. A respected academic, he lectured at several Nigerian universities, including Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University, and Elizade University, mentoring countless students who later became successful actors, directors, and scholars in the creative industry.
Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, cultural organizations, political leaders, and fans who described him as a national treasure whose contributions to Nigerian theatre and film will remain unforgettable.
Many have praised his commitment to preserving Yoruba culture through storytelling, theatre, and scholarship, noting that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists.
As family members, colleagues, and admirers mourn his passing, Kola Oyewo will be remembered not only as a celebrated actor but also as a cultural ambassador, teacher, and custodian of Nigeria’s rich artistic heritage.
His remarkable life and enduring contributions have secured him a permanent place in the history of Nigerian theatre and Nollywood.
