Janet Jackson is motheringggg!

The iconic momma shared a rare glimpse into family life when she posted photos honoring her son Eissa Al Mana on his 9th birthday, celebrated Saturday, Jan. 3. In an Instagram tribute Jackson wrote, “To my beautiful heart and soul, may God continue to bless you and keep you close ALWAYS. Happy Birthday Baby,” alongside kissing-heart emojis. 

The Instagram post included images of a custom cake shaped like a red PlayStation controller, flanked by copies of the game Astro Bot and a figurine of the game’s titular character. Jackson typically keeps her son out of the spotlight, but occasionally shares family moments and reflections on motherhood. 

Jackson, who welcomed Eissa in 2017 with then-husband Wissam Al Mana, has largely kept her son out of the public eye, but has spoken repeatedly about how motherhood reshaped her life. In a 2024 interview with The Guardian she said, “The most important thing I’ve done, the biggest thing I’ve done, is become a mother, and it’s had a beautiful impact on my life.” 

She has described the role as deeply rewarding and grounding. Speaking to the BBC in 2024, Jackson called being a mom “the most beautiful thing,” and on Today, she said being a “mama” gives her “the greatest gratification.” 

During her New York stop of her 2024 Together Again tour, Eissa was spotted supporting his mother from the side of the stage, wearing ear protection, a moment the press couldn’t get enough of! During the tour, she told interviewers that there was nothing she didn’t love about her role as mother, saying,  “Everything. Every — when they're tired. When you need a break. I just love it all. I love it all.” 

Jackson has also reflected on how parenting changed her priorities. She told The Guardian she once hoped for three children but recognized the dedication required, saying, “I wanted to have three children, but thought, ‘I should stop there, that’s probably all I can handle.’ Because you have to give all of yourself.”