KINGSTON, Jamaica — The entertainment world mourns the loss of Diane Keaton, the legendary actress who passed away in California at the age of 79, as confirmed by PEOPLE magazine. A spokesperson for the family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and no further details about her death have been disclosed. Keaton’s illustrious career began in the 1970s with her iconic role as Kay Adams-Corleone in The Godfather trilogy, which catapulted her to global stardom. She further solidified her place in cinematic history through her collaborations with director Woody Allen, particularly her unforgettable performance in the 1977 romantic comedy Annie Hall, which earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Over her five-decade-long career, Keaton became synonymous with unique style, sharp humor, and versatile acting, starring in acclaimed films such as Manhattan, Reds, Something’s Gotta Give, and Marvin’s Room. Her contributions to the film industry garnered numerous award nominations and cemented her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most cherished and distinctive stars.
分类： entertainment
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Dominica’s music takes center stage at Miami Carnival, ‘Big Bad Bouyon’
The Miami Carnival, a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, is set to showcase the dynamic sounds of Bouyon music in 2025. Organized by Jay Upscale, the newly introduced Big Bad Festival will span three days, from October 10 to 13, in Miami’s Wynwood Arts District. This year’s highlight is the Saturday night segment dedicated to Bouyon, a rhythm-driven genre originating from Dominica’s carnival scene, which is gaining international acclaim. The festival will feature a diverse lineup, including Ridge, a two-time Bouyon Artist of the Year, alongside other prominent artists such as 1T1, Edday, Shelly, Reo, Trilla-G, Infrared, DJ Luchshiy, and Unstoppable Shax. Jay Upscale, the festival’s founder, emphasized the cultural significance of Bouyon, describing it as more than music—it’s an energy and a movement that connects the Caribbean diaspora. The event will take place at Toe Jam, a modern and intimate venue, offering attendees an immersive experience of Bouyon’s raw energy. Ridge expressed his excitement about performing Bouyon on such a prestigious stage, noting its growing global influence. The festival will also include Soca performances on Friday and conclude with the Big Bad Brunch on Monday. Shelly of Signal Band highlighted Bouyon’s role as a medium of cultural expression and identity. From its roots in Dominica to its presence on international stages, Bouyon continues to evolve while staying true to its rhythmic and communal essence. The Big Bad Bouyon event is a testament to the genre’s rising prominence and its ability to unite audiences worldwide.
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Sandals, Beaches win 16 World Travel Awards
Jamaica and its tourism industry celebrated a historic night at the 2025 World Travel Awards Caribbean & North America Gala Ceremony, held at the Sandals Grande St Lucian in St Lucia. The event, which brought together government leaders and hospitality professionals, highlighted the Caribbean nation’s exceptional achievements in travel and tourism. Jamaica was crowned the Caribbean’s Leading Destination for the 19th consecutive year, while the Jamaica Tourist Board secured the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board award for the 17th straight year. Additionally, the Port of Ocho Rios and the Port of Montego Bay were recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Port and Leading Home Port, respectively. Jamaica also claimed the title of Caribbean’s Leading Family Travel Destination 2025. Sandals and Beaches resorts were the stars of the evening, collectively winning 16 awards. Sandals Resorts International was named the Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand for the 32nd year in a row, while Beaches Turks and Caicos celebrated its 18th win as the Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort. Other notable wins included Sandals Dunn’s River as the Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort and Sandals South Coast as the Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort. Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, emphasized the dedication of the team and the commitment to evolving guest experiences. Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett praised the resilience and hard work of Jamaica’s tourism stakeholders, urging them to build on this success. Other Jamaican winners included Island Routes, Chukka Caribbean Adventures, and Rose Hall Great House Tour, showcasing the nation’s diverse tourism offerings.
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Antiguan Chef Kareem Roberts Leads Cambridge Restaurant to Prestigious UK Dining Awards
Chef Kareem Roberts, an Antiguan-born culinary maestro, has reached a significant pinnacle in his career. The Burleigh Arms, the Cambridge gastropub where he serves as head chef, has been awarded two AA Rosettes, one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious dining accolades. This recognition honors establishments that demonstrate exceptional precision, creativity, and consistency in their culinary offerings, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and refined techniques. Roberts, who has spent several years honing his craft in the UK, expressed immense pride in this achievement, describing it as a testament to his team’s dedication and his Antiguan heritage. ‘This award validates our journey and the passion we’ve poured into The Burleigh Arms,’ Roberts remarked. The gastropub has become a top dining destination in Cambridge, celebrated for its innovative modern cuisine. Last year, it was also listed among the Top 100 Pubs in the UK, further solidifying its reputation in the competitive culinary landscape. Building on this success, Roberts is set to release his first cookbook, a project that reflects his Caribbean roots and his belief in storytelling through food. ‘These are inspirational steps for a son of the soil,’ he said, hoping his journey from Antigua to Cambridge inspires others to pursue their dreams.
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Several Caribbean artistes among Grammy considerations for 2026 awards
The 2026 Grammy Awards preliminary list has showcased a remarkable surge in Caribbean musical talent, with over 70 Jamaican albums, 12 Trinidadian artists, and one Barbadian act making the cut. This development underscores the region’s growing influence on the global music stage, as highlighted by industry insiders. Among the high-profile submissions is Rihanna’s ‘Friend of Mine,’ which is being considered across multiple categories, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Dance Pop Recording. Trinidad and Tobago’s Kes the Band with ‘Cocoa Tea’ and Yung Bredda/Full Blown’s ‘The Greatest Bend Over’ are vying for the Best Global Music Performance award. Etienne Charles’ ‘Kumbaya’ and ‘Gullah Roots’ have garnered nominations in Best Arrangement and Best Jazz Instrumental Album categories, respectively. Gail Ann Stevens’ ‘(Precious Gail) Adored’ is also in contention for Best African Music Performance. Notable Jamaican albums like Vybz Kartel’s ‘Heart & Soul,’ Lila Ike’s ‘Treasure Self Love,’ and Ding Dong’s ‘From Ding Dong to the World’ are being considered for Best Reggae Album. Trinidadian professionals attribute this recognition to years of encouraging musicians to submit their work. The Grammy Awards, while U.S.-based, are increasingly reflecting global music trends, particularly with the introduction of categories like Global Music Performance in 2022 and efforts to diversify its voting membership. Submissions are reviewed by over 350 music professionals to ensure eligibility before being placed on the first-round ballot. Voting members, numbering over 13,000, cast their votes in their areas of expertise, with Deloitte tabulating the results to determine final nominees. While the exact number of Caribbean nationals in the voting group remains unclear, this year’s consideration list signals a growing recognition of the region’s artists.
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Burning Flames to receive special tribute at Independence Gala in New York
The Burning Flames Band, a legendary musical group from Antigua and Barbuda, will be celebrated as honored guests at this year’s Independence Gala in New York. Organized by the Consulate General of Antigua and Barbuda, the event will take place on November 15th at the prestigious Glen Island Harbour Club. This year’s gala marks the 44th anniversary of the nation’s independence and will feature the theme “Red and Gold,” a nod to the band’s iconic name and fiery musical legacy. The Burning Flames, a family band, have been a cornerstone of the annual gala for several years, captivating audiences with their vibrant performances. This year, they will not only entertain but also be recognized for their enduring contributions to Antiguan and Barbudan culture. Ambassador Walton Webson, Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, emphasized the band’s significance, stating that their recognition is well-deserved. He highlighted the gala as an opportunity for the diaspora to express their admiration and gratitude. Tickets for the event are in high demand, with prices ranging from $200 to $250, reflecting the anticipation surrounding what is expected to be the largest Independence Gala to date. The Consulate General urges the community to attend and celebrate both the nation’s independence and the band’s 40-year musical journey, which has brought joy and pride to countless individuals. For ticket inquiries, contact the New York Office at 646-215-6013 or 646-215-6047.
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Republic Bank EC Ltd donates $50,000 towards staging of 25th Edition of WCMF
Republic Bank EC Limited has pledged a generous donation of $50,000 to support the 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), set to take place from October 24 to 26, 2025, at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Dominica. The announcement was made during the weekly WCMF press conference on Thursday, where Nicole Karam, Assistant Manager of the Processing Unit at Republic Bank EC Ltd, expressed the bank’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting Dominica as a global destination. Karam emphasized that the festival not only celebrates regional music and culture but also serves as a platform to nurture and protect Dominica’s rich traditions. The donation aligns with the bank’s ‘Power to Make a Difference Program,’ which focuses on empowering communities, supporting cultural initiatives, and fostering national resilience. Karam highlighted the festival’s role in creating a musical legacy, showcasing local and regional talent, and ensuring future generations take pride in Dominica’s cultural identity. Additionally, she advised Republic Bank customers to safeguard their banking details during the festive season and announced new features, including online account opening, three new ATMs with TAP functionality, and a cardless cash feature. The bank’s ‘Make Your Christmas’ campaign, launching on October 15, 2025, will also offer reduced rates on mortgages, personal loans, and car loans.
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Caribbean culture takes centre stage — Trinis illuminate Disney’s Diwali Dance Fest
The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is set to illuminate with the vibrant rhythms and cultural richness of Diwali as it hosts the Diwali Dance Fest 2025 from October 9 to 11. This three-day extravaganza will bring together hundreds of performers from across the globe, with a special spotlight on Caribbean artists, including Trinidad and Tobago-born creators and dancers. Among them are cultural ambassador Natasha Laggan and the Devyani School of Cultural Arts, a troupe featuring dancers of Trinidadian, Guyanese, and Jamaican descent. For Laggan, this event holds profound personal significance. ‘I’m honoured to have been invited to cover it,’ she shared. ‘Seeing the Caribbean represented in such a major celebration fills me with pride.’ Laggan will document the event for her global audience, describing it as ‘a true privilege’ to witness Caribbean artistry on such a prestigious stage. The Devyani School of Cultural Arts, founded in 2009, will perform a fusion of Bharatanatyam, Indian folk, and chutney dance. Founder Priya Persaud emphasized the cultural affirmation behind their performance, stating, ‘We’re not just performing – we’re representing, educating, and inspiring.’ The event, now in its third consecutive year, follows the success of the 2024 festival, which garnered international attention and featured performances by over 300 artists. This year’s festivities include a welcome party, an international dance showcase, and a grand Diwali parade, marking a powerful shift toward cultural inclusion and appreciation.
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50 years of keeping it clean, real — Paul Keens-Douglas: Ent Dat Nice
For five decades, Paul Keens-Douglas has been a cornerstone of Caribbean storytelling, blending humour, language, and cultural pride into family-friendly performances. This weekend, the acclaimed writer, dramatist, poet, and producer marks this extraordinary milestone with ‘Ent Dat Nice,’ a special 50th-anniversary edition of his iconic Tim Tim show, held at the Central Bank Auditorium in Port of Spain. The event celebrates a journey that began in 1975 at the Little Carib Theatre, where a simple reading of poems and stories evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Keens-Douglas’s work has transcended borders, reaching audiences worldwide through books, CDs, DVDs, and international storytelling festivals. His beloved characters, such as Tanti at de Oval and Vibert, have become staples of Caribbean folklore, embodying the region’s wit and wisdom. Over the years, Keens-Douglas has remained committed to clean, family-oriented storytelling, earning the trust of generations of fans. His contributions have been recognized globally, including a Carifesta Award for his lifetime achievements in regional arts. ‘Ent Dat Nice’ not only honours his body of work but also celebrates the audiences who have supported him. The show features guest performers like Avion Crooks, Miguel Browne, Candice Alcantara, and saxophonist Tony Paul, continuing the tradition of live music in his performances. As Keens-Douglas reflects on his journey, he remains dedicated to his craft, currently working on his memoirs and continuing to perform with the same passion that has defined his career. ‘Ent Dat Nice’ is a testament to the enduring magic of Caribbean storytelling and the joy it brings to audiences worldwide.
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Capleton mourns loss of his brother, Rohan Bailey
The global reggae community is rallying around international icon Capleton as he mourns the loss of his beloved brother, Rohan Bailey, affectionately known as “Garry.” Bailey passed away over a week ago after a valiant months-long battle with illness. Capleton, renowned as “The Fireman,” commemorated his brother’s life with a traditional nine-night service held at his Corporate Area residence earlier this week.
In an emotional tribute, Capleton described his brother as a selfless and genuine individual. “Garry would do anything for anyone, without expecting anything in return. He wasn’t motivated by money, fame, or validation—he was just different. If you asked him to do something, you never had to worry about it getting done. He was one of the realest people I’ve ever known,” Capleton shared.
Capleton also highlighted the profound impact Garry had on those around him. “Some of my friends cried as if they were his siblings. They were more emotional than I was, which shows just how much he meant to everyone. Garry had no enemies; he was one of the humblest souls.”
Despite his grief, Capleton is channeling his energy into his music, using it as a source of healing and a way to honor his brother’s legacy. His manager and partner, Suzanne Bennett, echoed these sentiments, describing Garry as a devoted father, incredible uncle, and loyal friend who brought joy to everyone he met. “His passing leaves an immeasurable void, but his memory will live on through the lives he touched,” Bennett said.
Capleton remains committed to his upcoming performances, viewing the stage as a place of strength and spiritual renewal. Notable events include a show in Costa Rica on October 17, 2025, the Seafood Festival on Sharkies Beach on October 20th, a performance at Jack Sprat in Treasure Beach on November 8th, and the Legends Are Forever event in Clarendon on November 29th.
The Bailey family has requested fans and well-wishers to keep Capleton and his family in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.