The Nigerian film industry and Yoruba cultural scene have been thrown into mourning over the passing of veteran actor, Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, popularly known as Agbako, who died at the remarkable age of 102.
BEYOND AFRICA gathered that the veteran actor was said to have died early Thursday morning after taking a nap and complaining of slight tiredness.
President of Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Bolaji Amusan, also known as Mr Latin announced his passing, saying burial details will be announced soon by his family and association.
Agbako, a beloved figure in the Yoruba film industry, is now remembered as the oldest actor within the Nigerian film sector, whose life spanned over a century and left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Nigeria.
News of Agbako’s passing was confirmed by fellow Nollywood veteran Jide Kosoko, who announced the somber event to colleagues and fans, sparking an outpouring of condolences from actors, filmmakers, and fans alike.
The actor’s influence on the Yoruba movie industry was profound, with countless admirers who grew up watching his performances in classic Yoruba films.
Agbako was renowned for his portrayal of bold and often complex characters, bringing a unique flair and authenticity to the screen that won him generations of fans.
Life and Times
Charles Olumo was born in the early 1920s, a time of immense cultural and social changes. Rising to prominence as a prominent actor in Yoruba cinema, Agbako became widely recognised for his ability to embody both comedic and villainous roles, a versatility that endeared him to viewers and solidified his place as one of the most memorable faces in the industry.
Over the years, his impact extended beyond acting, as he became a cultural symbol, representing the evolution of Nigerian cinema and the Yoruba tradition in entertainment.
Tributes from across the Nigerian entertainment industry speak to his influence on younger actors and his role in shaping the future of Yoruba cinema. His passing is seen as not only a loss to the industry but to Nigeria’s rich cultural fabric.
