Nigerians at home and abroad have taken to social media to celebrate one of Nollywood’s most respected figures, Idowu Philips, popularly known as Mama Rainbow, as she clocks 83 years old and celebrates six decades in the Nigerian film industry.
The veteran actress, who has remained a household name for generations, shared stunning new photos on Instagram to mark the double milestone. In the pictures, Mama Rainbow dazzled in a figure-hugging lemon green dress, complemented by a pair of transparent glasses with black rims, radiating youthful elegance and confidence.
In her birthday post, the legendary actress expressed deep gratitude to God for the gift of long life, strength, and purpose.
“Happy 83rd Birthday and 60 Years on Stage to myself. Today, I celebrate 83 years of life and 60 unforgettable years on stage!” she wrote. “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 went on to appreciate her family, fans, and friends for their unwavering love and support throughout her career. “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,” she added.
The actress, who began her acting career in the 1960s, has featured in countless Yoruba and English movies, earning her a revered place in the entertainment industry. Her consistency, versatility, and humility have continued to inspire both young and veteran actors.
Social media platforms have been flooded with goodwill messages as fans and colleagues showered her with prayers and praises.
A fan, @feranmi_spiritual_empire, commented, “Mama @83 looking 40! God give me grace to live long. Happy birthday maami e tun bo pe fun wa ma.”
Another admirer, @tomike_a, wrote, “Happy birthday ma! May you continue to age gracefully in Jesus’ name! Thank you for giving us beautiful childhood memories.”
Popular comedian @esther_comic added, “Mama you are blessed ma. Happy birthday ma, igba odun odun kan ninu alafia, ifokanbale ati emi gigun.”
Also, @olabodebrown wrote, “Congratulations grandma and birthday blessings to a living legend. Cheers to more fruitful and healthy years ahead ma.”
Many of her followers praised her for maintaining grace and strength even at 83, with one admirer describing her as “the most stylish grandma in Nollywood.”
Beyond her acting career, Mama Rainbow has remained devoted to her faith. In a video that surfaced online earlier this year, the actress was seen taking her Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) plaque to church, dancing joyfully while church members celebrated her success.
At one point, she was seen holding the award tightly as a church member jokingly tried to take it from her, drawing laughter from the congregation.
Fans have since hailed the actress as a true embodiment of longevity, humility, and grace in the Nigerian film industry.
