“I cried when I was called the cheapest actress” – Iya Rainbow opens up

Veteran actress, Idowu Phillips, aka Mama Rainbow, speaks with Tofarati Ige about her career, foundation, family and other issues

What is the name of your foundation and when was it started?

It is called the Mama Rainbow Foundation. It started over 15 years ago and we have been assisted by God and some people. For this year, we want to hold our annual event in a way that everyone would know about it. It will take place on Children’s Day in my house at Ojodu Berger, Lagos. In the past, whenever we called some people for our programmes, they weren’t aware of our activities. But now, we want everyone to know about us so that whenever we call widows and other people, they can attend our events.

How did you feel when you were referred to as the cheapest actress?

I cried bitterly. Then I took the newspaper to my children at home, and they consoled me. I thank God that he blessed me with good children who always listened to me.

Despite your age, you still look beautiful. Do you get advances from men?

(Laughs). I am now a grandma. They call me mummy.

Do you still see yourself getting married?

No, my children will not be happy about that.

What if your children support the decision?

I don’t think they would do that. At this stage, I’m only concerned with taking care of my family.

(Ladun Liadi)