Lily Collins, the acclaimed actress from Netflix's hit series Emily in Paris, has posted a deeply personal and heartfelt tribute to her father, music icon Phil Collins, on the occasion of his 75th birthday. The touching social media message comes at a time when the legendary Genesis drummer and singer has been openly discussing significant health challenges that have impacted his daily life.
A Milestone Birthday Celebration
Phil Collins reached the remarkable age of 75 on Friday, 30th January, a milestone that his daughter Lily marked with a series of affectionate photographs shared on her Instagram account. The collection included nostalgic images from her childhood alongside more recent snapshots, capturing the enduring bond between father and daughter. In her caption, Lily expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate together, writing: "Yesterday Dad turned 75 and I feel so grateful to have celebrated together."
She continued with emotional praise for her father's legacy, stating: "For all you've accomplished, all the joy you've brought so many all over the world for ALL these years, all the lessons we've learned, all the memories we've shared, and all the new ones to come, thank you." The actress concluded her tribute with heartfelt sentiments about their relationship, adding: "I count myself so lucky to have hugged you, laughed with you, and reminisced with you on such a monumental day. Proud is an understatement. Love you to the moon and back again..."
Fan Reactions and Support
The post quickly attracted numerous comments from fans and followers who joined in celebrating the music legend's birthday. One Instagram user reflected the widespread admiration for Phil Collins' work, commenting: "Your dad's music has brought so much joy to my life and fans worldwide." Another supporter added: "Glad you could celebrate such a special birthday together!" demonstrating the warm reception to Lily's public display of family affection.
Revealing Health Struggles
The birthday tribute follows Phil Collins' candid discussion about his current health situation during a recent appearance on Zoe Ball's BBC podcast series, Eras. The musician revealed that he now requires 24-hour live-in nursing care following multiple medical procedures, including five operations on his knee. He explained: "I can walk, albeit with assistance. I have a 24-hour, live-in nurse to make sure I take my medication as I should do."
Collins detailed a series of health complications that have affected him, stating: "I've had challenges with my knee, I had everything that could go wrong with me, did go wrong with me. I got Covid in hospital, my kidneys started to back up." He attributed some of these issues to his past lifestyle, admitting: "I'd probably been drinking too much, and so my kidneys were messed up. I wasn't one of those guys that sort of stayed up all night drinking. I'd drink during the day, but I guess I had too much of it."
Reflections on Career and Future
Despite these challenges, Phil Collins maintains a positive perspective on his illustrious career, remarking: "I couldn't have wished for a more varied and eventful playing career." However, he expressed caution about returning to live performances following his last concert in 2022. While hoping to eventually regain full mobility and health, the musician acknowledged that his rock 'n' roll lifestyle has "caught up with [him]" after previously spending extended periods in hospital.
Lily Collins, who has portrayed fashionista Emily Cooper for five successful seasons of Emily in Paris, continues to balance her thriving acting career with family commitments. The series returned for its latest season in December, maintaining its popularity among Netflix subscribers. As both father and daughter navigate their respective professional and personal journeys, this public birthday celebration offers a poignant glimpse into their close relationship amidst challenging circumstances.
