Veteran Yoruba actress and Nollywood legend, Idowu Phillips, popularly known as Mama Rainbow, has celebrated her 83rd birthday alongside 60 remarkable years on stage, expressing deep gratitude to God, her family, fans, and supporters who have stood by her throughout her six-decade career.
The screen icon marked the occasion on Thursday with an emotional message shared on her Instagram page, reflecting on her life’s journey and the blessings that have defined her career.
“Today, I celebrate 83 years of life and 60 unforgettable years on stage! What a journey it has been filled with music, memories, love, and endless gratitude. I thank God Almighty for the gift of life, strength, and purpose. Every day, every song, every stage has been a blessing,” she wrote.
Honouring Family, Fans, and Colleagues
Mama Rainbow, who began her acting journey in the 1960s as part of her late husband’s theatre troupe, paid a heartfelt tribute to her son and manager, Femi Phillips, describing him as her “pillar and daily joy.”
“To my son, my manager, my baby, and my close friend, you are my pillar, my daily joy, and the reason I keep shining. Your dedication keeps my legacy alive,” she added.
She also expressed appreciation to her fans, family, and colleagues for their enduring love and loyalty over the years.
“To my family, your love has been my foundation. To my fans, friends, and lovers at home and abroad, you are my heartbeat. Your love, support, and prayers have carried me through every season. As I turn 83, I’m filled with nothing but gratitude, grace, and joy. Sixty years on stage and still counting — the show goes on, and the love continues,” she said.
A Timeless Icon of Yoruba Cinema
Known for her lively performances and powerful maternal roles, Mama Rainbow has become a household name in Yoruba cinema and Nigerian entertainment as a whole. Over the years, she has appeared in hundreds of productions across film and television, earning respect as one of the most versatile and enduring figures in Nollywood.
Her notable works include Yemi My Love, Abeni, Oga Bolaji, Sugar Rush, Becoming Abi, Madami, Mewa N Sele, Taiwo Taiwo, The Narrow Path, Lagidigba, Agbefo, and Okun Ife.
From stage plays in the 1960s to modern film productions, Mama Rainbow’s versatility and dedication continue to inspire younger generations in the entertainment industry..
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