Veteran filmmaker, Opa Williams has paid tribute to late legendary actor Olu Jacobs, recalling his humility and the lasting influence he had on his career.
In a tribute titled “Rapture: A Tribute to a Gentle Giant, Williams described Jacobs as a “gentle giant” whose humanity transcended his towering reputation.
He recalled how Jacobs became part of his first Nollywood project, Onome, after he and his creative team approached the revered actor for a major role.
According to Williams, the project followed the success of his earlier films, Tears for Love and Without Love, which focused on genuine storytelling and emotional narratives.
He said the creative team, comprising Keppy Ekpeyong, Fred Amata, Chico Ejiro and Edi Lawani, subjected their scripts to rigorous conferences and reviews before production.
Williams said the team eventually conceived ‘Onome’ as a deeper exploration of devotion and carefully considered actors who could best embody its characters.
He said Jacobs was the unanimous choice for the role of Dafe Fregene, a benevolent philanthropist who rescues a dedicated waitress.
The filmmaker, however, recalled that the team was apprehensive about approaching Jacobs, given his distinguished career and collaborations with internationally recognised actors.
“We set out to see him at his place on Awolowo Way in Ikeja,” Williams recalled, adding that Jacobs listened patiently but insisted on reading the screenplay before deciding.
He said Chico Ejiro led the mission, while Ekpeyong helped pave the way for the meeting with the veteran actor.
Williams said Jacobs eventually accepted the role but made one condition before discussions about his fee: every artist and crew member must be treated with utmost respect.
He said Jacobs subsequently starred in Onome alongside Sam Loco Efe, Chris Erakpotobor and Uche Macaulay.
Williams said his fears about working with the highly celebrated actor disappeared once production began, as Jacobs displayed remarkable humility and concern for everyone on set.
“On set, Uncle Olu demonstrated a profound humility that completely stripped away every ounce of anxiety we had carried.
“He never complained. He never pressured anyone. He was always smiling, encouraging, and deeply concerned for the welfare of others before himself, ” he said.
Williams described Jacobs as a soft-spoken and generous man whose conduct on set provided lessons that went beyond acting.
He said his encounter with the veteran actor became a defining experience in his career, adding that Jacobs’ values continued to influence him.
“Then, I was a student; today, I am a teacher following his doctrine,” Williams said.
The filmmaker expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with Jacobs, describing his participation in Onome as an honour and recalling it as the actor’s first Nollywood project.
“Uncle OJ lives in my heart forever. Uncle OJ lives on,” Williams said.
