Veteran Yoruba theatre and film icon Kola Oyewo has died at the age of 80, bringing an end to a decades-long career that left a strong mark on Nigerian stage performance and Nollywood storytelling.
His death was announced on Friday by colleague Kunle Afod, who paid tribute to him on social media, praising his contributions to the growth of Nigerian theatre and describing his legacy as one that will continue to live on through his work.
Oyewo’s passing has sparked reactions within the entertainment industry, with many actors and fans remembering him as one of the respected figures in Yoruba drama, known for his discipline, depth, and commanding stage presence.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, he began his acting journey in the 1960s after joining the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. That experience helped shape his early career in stage performance and laid the foundation for his later success in film.
He became widely known for his powerful portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s celebrated stage play The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that earned him recognition across Nigeria and beyond as one of the standout interpreters of classical African theatre.
Over the years, Oyewo remained active in both stage productions and Nollywood films, contributing to the development of indigenous storytelling and mentoring younger actors entering the industry.
Details surrounding his death were still being confirmed at the time of this report.
