Veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist and academic, Professor Kola Oyewo, has passed away at the age of 80.
His demise was officially confirmed on Friday, June 12, 2026, by his son, Adetoyese Oyewo, and younger industry colleague Kunle Afod, who shared tributes across social media platforms. The iconic Yoruba filmmaker and scholar reportedly passed away following a battle with an enlarged prostate.
Oyewo held a Ph.D. in Drama from the University of Ibadan. He served as a senior lecturer, mentoring future generations of talent at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Redeemer’s University, and Elizade University.
Born in Oba-Ile, Osun State, his professional acting journey kicked off in 1964 when he joined the legendary Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group.
He achieved widespread legendary status for playing Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s acclaimed stage play, The Gods Are Not to Blame. He also acted memory roles as Oba Lapite in Mainframe’s cinematic masterpiece Saworoide, alongside other hit films like Koseegbe, Sango, and the popular TV series Super Story.
Earlier in March 2026, upon turning 80, he was highly praised by President Bola Tinubu who described him as a national treasure and a distinguished ambassador of Nigerian storytelling.