Veteran Nollywood actor Charles ‘Agbako’ Sanyaolu dies at 101

Veteran Nollywood Yoruba actor Charles Sanyaolu, popularly known as Agbako, has passed away at the remarkable age of 101

Bolaji Amusan, the president of the Theatre Arts and Movie Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), announced Agbako’s passing on Instagram.

“TAMPAN Global announces the passing of Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, fondly known as AGBAKO,” Amusan wrote.

He also stated that details of the burial arrangements will be shared later.

Agbako was popular within the Yoruba film industry and was known for his commanding presence and exceptional performances.

Born in 1923, Sanyaolu, affectionately called Agbako by movie lovers, was one of the pioneers of the Yoruba film industry, which later evolved into Nollywood.

He gained fame for his roles in traditional Yoruba films, often portraying fearsome characters such as villains, warriors, and chiefs.

Agbako’s ability to embody tough roles made him a household name, and his career spanned several decades, allowing him to work with a wide range of filmmakers and actors.

In the early days of his career, Yoruba theatre and film productions were limited to stage plays and local performances.

However, as the industry expanded into film and television, Agbako made a seamless transition, becoming one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba films.

His roles in classic films such as ‘Ogbori Elemosho’ and ‘Atorunmo’ cemented his status as a legend in the industry.