Janet Jackson, known for keeping her son’s life away from the public eye, recently celebrated his 9th birthday with a heartfelt post on Instagram. On January 3, the music icon shared a glimpse of the festivities, featuring a creatively designed cake.

The cake was anything but ordinary. Modeled after a red-and-black PlayStation controller, it included intricate details inspired by popular games like Minecraft and Astro’s Playroom. A small Astro Bot figure added a whimsical touch, while nine towering blue candles and her son’s name emblazoned across the top completed the design.

In her touching message, Janet expressed, “To my beautiful heart and soul, may God continue to bless you and keep you close ALWAYS. Happy Birthday Baby.”

Janet, who became a mother in 2017 with her former husband Wissam Al Mana, has maintained a protective stance over her son’s privacy. However, she has gradually begun to share insights into her journey as a mother. During a 2024 interview with The Guardian, she opened up about how motherhood has profoundly impacted her life.

“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 revealed. Now 59, Janet also reflected on her earlier dreams of having three children, acknowledging that the reality of dedicating “all of yourself” to parenting led her to reconsider.

Back in July 2024, the youngest of the Jackson siblings told BBC that being a mom “is the most beautiful thing.”

At the time, Eissa was with her during her New York stop on the Together Again Tour. Per the BBC, Eissa stood proudly at the side of the stage wearing ear protectors while his mom performed.

During a 2023 appearance on Today, the singer added that being called “mama” brings her “the greatest gratification.” Asked what she enjoys most about parenting, she replied, “Everything. Every — when they’re tired. When you need a break. I just love it all. I love it all.”