Nollywood actor Jim Iyke has stirred up social media with a provocative and deeply personal open letter to fellow actress Kate Henshaw, posted in celebration of her birthday.
In the lengthy Instagram tribute, Iyke reflected on their early days in Nollywood, revealing candid feelings and humorous regrets from over two decades ago.
Writing as his 23-year-old self, he expressed frustration that Kate once treated him like a “baby brother” despite knowing he had romantic feelings for her.
“Fuck you, on behalf of my 23-year-old self, for treating me like your baby brother when you knew all that time I wanted to hit that,” he began, in his signature brash tone.
Iyke praised Henshaw for her generosity and support in his early acting career—giving him tips on auditions and even helping with transport money. However, he claimed she eventually stopped looking out for him and moved on, marrying a white man.
Despite the raw language, his post was laced with admiration and affection. He hailed Henshaw for her ageless beauty, fitness, and influence on young women, jokingly blaming her for the pressure many women feel to live up to impossible standards.
“You’ve caused hysteria, depression, anxiety, admiration, love, hate; a spectrum of human sentiments!” he wrote, adding that no procedure or shortcut can replicate what Kate Henshaw represents.
Jim Iyke concluded the post by acknowledging the depth of their long-standing friendship, calling her a “phenomenal creature” and “a force of nature.”
“This ‘fuck you’ is just because we’re Nigerians. We insult those we love,” he said warmly. “Your wild boy loves you!”
The bold and unconventional birthday message has sparked widespread reactions online, with fans and celebrities alike weighing in on the candid nature of Iyke’s tribute.
