Veteran actress Idowu Philips, popularly known as Mama Rainbow, has expressed gratitude as she celebrates 60 years on stage.
The screen icon who will celebrate her 83rd birthday on October 16, shared a new photo on Instagram on Thursday to commemorate her six decades in the entertainment industry, describing her journey as one of grace, passion, and dedication.
Mama Rainbow wrote, “60 Years on Stage | 83rd Pictures ✨
“What a journey it has been — 60 years of grace, passion, and dedication on stage, captured beautifully in my 83rd pictures. None of this would have been possible without an amazing team that brought this vision to life.”
The actress also thanked her team and fans for their love and support over the years, adding that this year marks a double celebration of her long-standing career and her life.
Born October 16, 1942, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, Mama Rainbow began her acting journey in the 1960s after the death of her husband, Augustine Philips, who was a member of the late Hubert Ogunde’s theatre group. She later joined the troupe before transitioning fully into film.
The name Mama Rainbow was inspired by “Osumare,” the Yoruba word for rainbow, which was also the name of her late husband’s theatre company.
Over the decades, she has featured in several Yoruba and English films including Apaadi, Eru, Aje Ni Iya Mi, Lagidigba and Agbara Ife.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions to the movie industry, Mama Rainbow received the Industry Merit Award at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) in 2024, alongside Richard Mofe-Damijo.
To mark her latest milestone, the actress is expected to embark on a celebratory tour across Egypt, the United States and Canada, where she will hold events in her honour.
