“You get away with a lot when you marry an older man” — Joke Silva opens up on marriage to Olu Jacobs

 Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva has candidly shared insights into her long-lasting marriage to legendary actor Olu Jacobs, revealing one of the unexpected perks of tying the knot with an older partner.

In a recent appearance on TVC’s Your View, the acclaimed thespian opened up about their relationship, which began on stage and has endured for over four decades since their wedding in 1985. Joke, who was 24 at the time of marriage, and Olu, who was approximately 44, navigated a roughly 20-year age difference that she says brought unique advantages to their union.

“You get away with a lot when you marry an older man,” Joke humorously remarked, highlighting how the age gap fostered greater tolerance, patience, and understanding—especially in the early years of their marriage. She explained that the dynamic allowed her more leeway in certain aspects of their life together, contributing to the strength and longevity of their partnership.

The couple first met during a production (on the set related to Jerry’s Metamorphosis), where initial attraction grew over time. Joke has previously shared that it wasn’t love at first sight for her—unlike for Olu—but love ultimately prevailed. She noted that she didn’t immediately realize the extent of the age difference, as Olu “looked good” and carried himself with timeless charm.

Despite initial family concerns—particularly from her father about the age gap—Joke’s mother supported the union, drawing from her own family’s similar experiences. The pair have since become one of Nollywood’s most admired and enduring couples, inspiring fans with their commitment through personal and professional challenges.

Joke’s reflections come amid ongoing conversations about love, compatibility, and societal views on age differences in relationships. Her honest take underscores themes of mutual respect, deep affection, and the beauty of partnerships that weather time.