Fans celebrate Nollywood veteran Kate Henshaw at 55

Fans of veteran Nollywood actress, Kate Henshaw, have celebrated her as she marks her 55th birthday.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the actress announced her birthday in a post on her verified Instagram account, @k8henshaw, on Sunday.

In the post, the award-winning actress reflected on her life’s journey, thanking God for His grace, life’s lessons and the gift of life.

She wrote, “I have lived. I have loved. I have lost. I have learned. I have fallen. I have risen. And through it all, I have been carried by GRACE.

“As I step into another year, my heart has just two words: THANK YOU. Thank You to the King of Kings, my Heavenly Father, for every chapter.

“For every lesson. For every blessing—seen and unseen. And above all, for the precious LOAN of LIFE.

“Chapter 55 begins. Quietly grateful. Deeply blessed. Completely present. Happy Birthday to me.”

The post has since attracted an outpouring of goodwill messages and prayers from fans, well-wishers and colleagues in the entertainment industry.

@preciousenobohien wrote, “I hope this new year brings all your heart desires. To know you is to love you. Have the best birthday, Mama.”

@leonzora.naturals said, “Happy birthday, Aunty Kate. You are loved.”

@dttransports wrote, “Happy birthday to the queen herself. May your reign be long and your health be perfect. May this be your best year yet! May lines fall in pleasant places for you, and may you conquer more ground this year. Happy birthday, Mama.”

@davidimoudu_ wrote, “Happy birthday, Momma. Wishing you many fulfilled years to come!”

@lillyafe said, “Happy Birthday, Aunty Kate. I pray happiness never departs from your life. Wishing you ILNP. Love you loads.”

@hirehthegreatest wrote, “Happy Birthday, Auntie! Of your increase there shall be no end in Jesus’ name.”

@realsophy said, “Ohhhhhhhhh, happy birthday, Aunty Kate.”

@maureenlanky wrote, “Awwww, the most beautiful. My one and only sweetheart. Happy birthday. You are so special and dear to my heart. Miss youuuuuu.”

@obehiinojie wrote, “You shall continue to be carried by unexplained grace. May God continue to bless and protect you in Jesus’ name. Amen. Happy birthday, queen of hearts.”

@papaya_ex wrote, “55 or 25? Happy birthday, very stunning ageless queen. May things fall in place for you, and may the Almighty grant all your heart’s desires.”

NAN reports that Kate Henshaw, born on July 19, 1971, in Cross River State, is an award-winning Nigerian actress, fitness enthusiast and humanitarian, widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s most accomplished screen icons.

Henshaw made her acting debut in 1993 in the acclaimed film When the Sun Sets and has since featured in more than 100 Nollywood productions, earning a reputation for her versatility and compelling performances.

Before becoming an actress, she worked as a model, featuring in several commercials, including print and television advertisements for Shield deodorant.

Over the years, she has portrayed a wide range of roles across drama, romance and action genres, making her one of the most respected and enduring figures in the Nigerian film industry.

Her contributions to the entertainment industry have earned her several accolades, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 2008 for her performance in Stronger than Pain.

Aside from acting, Henshaw is a passionate advocate for healthy living and social causes.

She has served as a judge on reality television shows and partnered with several organisations on campaigns promoting public health, youth development and women’s empowerment.

Henshaw also ventured into politics, contesting for a seat in the House of Representatives in 2014 under the Peoples Democratic Party.

She has remained an active voice on issues of good governance, civic responsibility and national development through her public engagements and social media platforms.