Madam Saje

**Madam Saje** Fausat Balogun (born February 13, 1959), widely known by her stage name Madam Saje, is a highly respected Nigerian actress, producer, and filmmaker who primarily works in the Yoruba-language sector of the Nigerian film industry, commonly referred to as Nollywood. Known for her powerful portrayal of matriarchal figures, wicked stepmothers, and wise elderly women, she has sustained a career spanning over four decades. **Early Life and Education** Fausat Balogun was born on February 13, 1959, in Lagos, Nigeria. While details regarding her formal education are less documented, she began her acting career at a very young age, demonstrating a passion for the arts early in life. She trained under the tutelage of the renowned actor and theater practitioner, Rasaq Ajao, better known as "Araosan," during her formative years in the industry. **Career Progression and Rise to Prominence** Madam Saje started her professional acting career in the 1970s, working extensively within the traveling theatre groups that were popular at the time. Her breakthrough came much later, in the early 1990s, when she transitioned to film and television. Her stage name, "Madam Saje," originates from her role in the 1990 film *Madam Saje*, which propelled her into the mainstream Yoruba movie industry. Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, she cemented her status as a prolific figure, appearing in hundreds of films. **Major Achievements and Notable Works** Madam Saje is celebrated for her versatility and emotional depth, which have earned her multiple awards and nominations in the Nigerian film sector. She has become one of the most recognizable faces in Yoruba cinema. Notable Works include: * *Madam Saje* (1990) * *Omo Elemosho* (2012) * *Funke* (2018) * *Ogogo* * *Nkan Egbami*Beyond acting, she has also ventured into film production, contributing to the growth and development of Yoruba Nollywood. **Personal Life and Current Status** Fausat Balogun is married to fellow Nigerian actor and film producer Rafiu Balogun. She is a mother and a grandmother. As of her current status, Madam Saje remains active in the Nigerian film industry, consistently featuring in new productions and maintaining a strong presence on social media platforms, engaging with her large fanbase. She is regarded as a living legend and a foundational pillar of modern Yoruba film.