​Curtains Fall for the King: Legendary Actor and Academic Kola Oyewo Dies at 80

​The curtains have fallen on one of the most magnificent eras of Nigerian theatre and cinema. Dr. Kola Oyewo—a titan of the stage, an iconic Nollywood veteran, and a revered university don—has passed away at the age of 80.

​Close associates and colleagues confirmed that the academic and legendary actor breathed his last on Friday, June 12, following an undisclosed ailment. The news has sent shockwaves through both the creative arts industry and academic circles, where he was fondly regarded as a living institution.

​From Traveling Theatre to Academic Excellence

​Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba Ile, Osun State, Professor Oyewo’s journey into the arts began long before Nollywood became a global phenomenon. In 1964, at the tender age of 18, he joined the renowned Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. His very first professional role was playing Adejare in Orogun Adedigba, an autobiographical piece by Adejobi.

​After nine impactful years with the traveling troupe, Oyewo transitioned to the University of Ife Theatre. It was here that he formed a formidable artistic partnership with the legendary dramatist and scholar, Chief Ola Rotimi. Oyewo would go on to achieve timeless acclaim for his masterful portrayal of “Odewale” in Rotimi’s classic tragic drama, The Gods Are Not to Blame.

​Unlike many peers of his generation, Oyewo seamlessly bridged the gap between raw theatrical talent and rigorous scholarship. He returned to the classroom later in life, earning a Certificate in Dramatic Arts and a degree in Theatre Arts from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in 1995. He didn’t stop there; he proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where he successfully obtained his Master’s and Doctorate (Ph.D.) degrees in Drama.

ADVERTISEMENT

​A Giant of the Screen and the Classroom

​To mainstream audiences, Dr. Oyewo was the ultimate embodiment of royalty, wisdom, and cultural gravity on screen. He delivered unforgettable performances in Tunde Kelani’s foundational mainstream political satire Saworoide (as Oba Lapite) and Koseegbe, alongside standout roles in O Le Ku, Sango, and the premier season of the popular television anthology Super Story.

​Simultaneously, he was nurturing the next generation of Nigerian storytellers. In 1996, Oyewo joined the faculty at OAU, rising through the ranks to become a Senior Lecturer before his retirement in 2011. Retirement, however, only shifted his geography. He went on to head the Department of Dramatic Arts at Redeemer’s University and later shared his wealth of experience with students at Elizade University in Ondo State. Just a few months ago, in March, the nation—including the presidency—had celebrated his milestone 80th birthday.

​Tributes Pour in For a “Living Institution”

​Following the announcement of his passing, grief-stricken colleagues, former students, and industry practitioners have taken to social media and public platforms to mourn the icon.

​In an emotional tribute, a close associate wrote:

​”For decades, he illuminated our screens, stages, and classrooms with uncommon brilliance. As an actor, he brought stories to life with grace, depth, and authenticity. As a lecturer, he nurtured generations of students, shaping minds and inspiring excellence. Nigeria has lost a legend. The stage has lost a master. The classroom has lost a great teacher.”

​Professor Kola Oyewo’s departure marks the end of a golden generation of practitioners who gave Nigerian theater its unique intellectual identity. He is survived by his family, thousands of former students, and an indelible filmography that will serve as a masterclass for generations to come.