Veteran Nollywood actor Jim Iyke stirred up social media on Saturday, July 20, with a passionate and cryptic birthday message to fellow movie star Kate Henshaw, who just turned 54.
In a lengthy Instagram post that sparked both laughter and speculation, Jim Iyke began with the eyebrow-raising phrase “FUCK YOU KATE,” launching into what can only be described as a deeply emotional and brutally honest tribute. What initially reads as anger quickly unfolds into a story of admiration, regret, nostalgia, and long-standing affection.
Jim recalled their early days in the industry, narrating how Henshaw supported him when he was still trying to find his footing. He praised her for helping him out with auditions, slipping him money for meals and transportation, and always being a source of encouragement. Yet, despite all this kindness, he said she “treated me like your baby brother when you knew all that time I wanted to hit that.”
The actor joked about their missed opportunity at romance, even imagining a child they could have raised together. “Our love child would have been in his/her mid twenties now if you had let me experiment with my seed just a couple of times,” he wrote.
Jim also reflected on the turning point in their dynamic, blaming his youthful fame and recklessness for pushing her away, saying she eventually “ran off and married that Oyibo,” a reference to Henshaw’s former relationship.
In a playful yet sincere tone, Jim added that her influence has caused “hysteria, depression, anxiety, admiration, love, hate,” especially among younger women trying to match her natural beauty and ageless elegance. “Nature, commitment and sacrifice didn’t create it. It can’t be manufactured,” he wrote, adding, “It’s a KATE HENSHAW world.”
Despite the seemingly harsh words, the post ends on a tender note. Jim describes their bond as timeless and unshakeable, signing off with, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY DEAREST KO! YOU’RE A PHENOMENAL CREATURE. A FORCE OF NATURE. Your wild boy loves you!”
The post, while unconventional, captured the internet’s attention and further highlighted the deep mutual respect and complex emotional layers shared between two of Nollywood’s most celebrated stars.
