Victor Olaotan’s biography: wife, car accident, death
Victor Olaotan’s biography: spouse, vehicular mishap, passing
Victor Olaotan was a seasoned Nollywood performer who traversed a long path in the film sector. He gained recognition for his role in the acclaimed TV series ‘Tinsel’ star.
Besides acting, many of his admirers and followers might be unaware that he previously worked as a model and was an excellent vocalist. Victor Olaotan identified himself as a true Lagosian, being born and raised in Lagos state.
The announcement of his passing has elicited sorrowful responses from fans and peers within the film industry.
To delve deeper into the late thespian’s life, keep reading this article.
Profile Overview
Name
Victor Olaotan
Nickname
Big Daddy
Date of birth
February 17th 1952
Age
69
Nationality
Nigerian
Date of demise
26th of August 2021
Marital status
Married to Julia Olaotan
Occupation
Actor
Victor Olaotan’s Biography
His complete name is Victor Olaoluwatoyefunmi Olaotan. He was born on February 17, 1952; although there is scant information regarding his parents online, he did mention that his mother was a fashion designer and he inherited her modeling talent.
He had siblings, but little is known about them. The late performer enjoyed an active childhood, having played football. Growing up in Lagos state, he labeled himself a Lagos boy.
Academic Background
In his quest for knowledge about acting, Victor Olaotan attended esteemed Nigerian universities, including the University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University. He also studied at Rockets University in the United States.
Professional Journey
Upon graduating, he secured his first position as a footballer for the Water Corporation, Ibadan 1st Division. Subsequently, he joined the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Ibadan.
He began his acting journey at the tender age of 15, inspired by a teacher, Mr. Adegoke, who was part of the Ori Olokun theatre ensemble in the 1970s. Victor Olaotan became affiliated with the University of Ibadan theatre troupe, where he crossed paths with individuals like Professor Wole Soyinka and Jimi Solanke, among others.
He made his significant debut in 1969 with a performance in a play by Laolu Ogunniyi titled ‘Candle in the Wind’; this event catapulted him to fame in the Western Region during that era.
Following his father’s passing, he departed Nigeria for the United States in 1979 and was among the few Nigerians who accompanied former President Shehu Shagari to meet Ronald Reagan, then-President of the US, in 1981.
Throughout his over two-decade stay in the US, Victor Olaotan aspired to become a Hollywood actor, though unsuccessfully. Nevertheless, during his time there, he participated in Broadway performances in Lancaster and was part of the ensemble in the renowned South African play ‘Sizwe Banzi Is Dead’ produced by Athol Fugard, Winston Ntshona, and John Kani in Canada.
He returned to Nigeria in 2002 and reintegrated into the Nollywood film sector, quickly becoming a distinguished actor after portraying Fred Ade-Williams in MNet Soap Opera, Tinsel in 2012.
Victor Olaotan also appeared in Towo Tomo alongside Odunlade Adekola in 2013, and in 2016, he, Zack Orji, and Richard Mofe Damijo starred in Opa Williams “Three Wise Men.”
Vehicular Mishap
Victor Olaotan was involved in a severe car accident in 2016 while driving to a film location near Apple Junction in Festac, Lagos. Reports indicated he sustained a traumatic brain injury due to the accident.
Two years afterward, it was disclosed that he required $50,000 for treatment overseas, leading to the establishment of a Go Fund Me page. Nigerians along with his peers contributed; however, Nigerian tycoon Femi Otedola stepped in and covered the medical expenses for his treatment.
Reports indicated that the esteemed actor celebrated his 69th birthday on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, in a hospital in Turkey.
Passing
His spouse, Julia Olaotan, disclosed he passed away on Thursday, August 26, 2021.
