Veteran Actress, Joke Silva Marks 40 Years in the Industry on Her 60th Birthday
It’s a double celebration for veteran actress, Joke Silva as she marks 40 Years in the movie Industry on her 60th Birthday #40at60.
Celebrating her fourth decade in the industry, alongside her sixth decade in life’s journey, the actress released remarkable photos of her graceful look at 60. Alongside the photos, Ajoke shared an emotional caption about her journey, renewing her wedding vows with veteran actor Olu Jacobs ten years ago in the presence of her family members, many of which are now “on the other side of eternity”.
Ajoke also appreciated her three children Soji, Gbenga, Blessing, her grandaughter Dayo for making these years ‘bearable’, and her team who have made the last five years possible.
She wrote;
“Ten years ago today on my 50th birthday we had our renewal of vows in Freedom Park on Lagos Island. Pastor Tony Rapu remarried us. Sir J and I. Six pastors were also part of the team that officiated. In the congregation was my Mum Dr (Mrs) Abimbola Silva. She had taken a wine and white Ankara as aso ebi for the family.
My aunties Mrs Gbemi Rosiji, Aunty Olga Miller, Aunty Francesca Emmanuel were all there. All of them in their 80s…all of them are now on the other side of eternity. My almost twin sister Bisi was also there. She too is on the other side of eternity. With my Dad and my late daughter.
I believe that’s what happens the older we get…the more milestones we hit. Memories of those we have loved and lost. However, being on this side of eternity is soo good too. Challenging …definitely especially the last 5years. Wawoo.
A massive thank you to my sons Soji @mrjacobs_jnr and Gbenga @oj_poetry, my daughter Blessing @_blessing_douglas and grandaughter Dayo @atarahbaby for making these years bearable. Also my staff…Paulina, Micheal, John.
Without this team, these last 5years would have been impossible. Now the big 60 is here and I thank God for His oh so massive mercies. Yes, that’s it. Gratitude for health, for love of family and friends. Thank you, Lord”.
In a different post, she revealed her journey in the movie industry, up till this fourth decade as an incredible journey.
“Numbers are very important to me, so this year, as I turn 60, I also mark forty years in the industry I love. #40at60
My biography of that title #40at60 is actually in the works. Psalm 100 (40+60)is on my lips today as I express my gratitude to God!
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God… It has been an incredible journey and I thank you all for your endless love”.
Ajoke’s colleagues also took out time to celebrate the veteran and her milestone.
Kate Henshaw shared her picture, with the caption, “My own Aunty J. Ahhhh what do I say? You have ALWAYS been there for me, through the very bad and very good times of my life and when you cannot show up, you come personally and explain to me your other commitments.
On my 50th, you spent the WHOLE day with me!! I will never forget. You don’t molly cuddle me but tell me the truth no matter how I feel about it. I had to introduce you to my mummy and told her YOU, are my mother in the industry.
I love you so much Aunty J mi toh quality, toh baad, toh loving, toh solid!! HAPPY 60TH AUNTY J.May God always honor His words concerning you in Jesus matchless name. You have seen your children’s children, God will never leave you nor forsake you! Have an amazing day. I love you so so much”.
A fellow veteran who also clocked 60 years in July, Mofe-Damijo, celebrated Silva saying, “60 has never looked so great. Happy birthday to my Young fabulous friend and baby sister. Raising a glass to good health and happiness. I love you long time @ajokesilva . You already know.”
Media personality, Mo Abudu, also hailed silva at 60 with these words, “The beautiful, the most elegant, the super talented, passionate professional and the most respected – my darling big sis @ajokesilva, a legend, and trailblazer of our industry. Wishing you a happy 60th birthday.
You are so deserving my sis of every good thing that life has to offer. It’s been such a pleasure knowing you, working with you, and having you in my corner. Always encouraging, always supporting, always inspiring. I pray that God continues to love you, honour you, favour you and bless you now and always. All my love my dear big sis.”
The multiple award-winning actress has featured in over 100 productions since her career kicked off on stage. Joke landed her breakout role starring alongside Colin Firth and Nia Long in the British-Canadian film ‘The Secret Laughter of Women.’
In 2006 and 2008, the actress won the Best Actress in a Leading role and Best Actress in a Supporting role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). She has also received multiple recognitions for her contribution to arts and culture.
Silva is also one of the few veterans who made a successful transition to what has been described as the ‘new Nollywood’ era.
