分类: entertainment

  • Nevis features as filming location for Lifetime’s ‘Paradise with You’ premiering this fall  – WIC News

    Nevis features as filming location for Lifetime’s ‘Paradise with You’ premiering this fall  – WIC News

    The picturesque island of Nevis is poised for international recognition as the primary filming location for Lifetime Network’s forthcoming romantic feature ‘Terry McMillan Presents: Paradise with You’. Scheduled for autumn premiere, this production represents a strategic achievement for the Nevis Film Commission and Tourism Authority in promoting the island’s cinematic potential.

    Featuring acclaimed actors Taye Diggs, Cynthia Bailey, and Heather Hemmens, the narrative unfolds against Nevis’ unspoiled beaches, verdant tropical landscapes, and historic plantation estates. The film’s producers deliberately leveraged the island’s authentic Caribbean ambiance to create a visually compelling love story that simultaneously showcases Nevis’ natural assets to North American audiences.

    This production continues a growing trend of international filmmakers choosing Nevis for its unique combination of visual appeal, historical authenticity, and supportive infrastructure. Previous projects including ‘Christmas in the Caribbean’ and ‘A Week in Paradise’ have established the island’s credibility within the entertainment industry, creating a sustainable pipeline for future productions.

    Tourism authorities emphasize the significant multiplier effects of such high-profile placements. Beyond immediate economic benefits during filming, these productions serve as extended visual advertisements, potentially driving tourism interest and reinforcing Nevis’ brand identity as both an exclusive travel destination and a professional filming location.

    The Lifetime network’s extensive distribution reach ensures unprecedented exposure for Nevis’ cultural and environmental attributes. Industry analysts suggest such placements can influence travel decisions more effectively than traditional marketing campaigns, as viewers develop emotional connections with showcased locations.

    As the island positions itself within the competitive landscape of international film production, its combination of logistical support through the Film Commission, diverse landscapes, and cultural authenticity creates a compelling value proposition for content creators seeking distinctive Caribbean settings.

  • Nevis Emerging as Cinematic Showcase with New International Film Production

    Nevis Emerging as Cinematic Showcase with New International Film Production

    The Caribbean island of Nevis is rapidly establishing itself as a prominent hub for international film production, with its latest high-profile project bringing Hollywood talent to its shores. A new romantic drama produced for Lifetime networks, featuring acclaimed actor Taye Diggs and developed in collaboration with bestselling author Terry McMillan, has completed filming exclusively on the island.

    The production, titled “Terry McMillan Presents: Paradise with You,” showcases Nevis’s diverse landscapes—from pristine coastal areas and historic estates to lush interior terrain—demonstrating the island’s versatility as a cinematic backdrop. The narrative follows a professional athlete seeking personal renewal who encounters a woman rebuilding her life, portrayed by Heather Hemmens, with their evolving relationship forming the emotional core of the story. The cast additionally includes reality television personality Cynthia Bailey.

    This project represents a strategic continuation of Nevis’s growing appeal within the entertainment industry, building upon previous productions including “A Week in Paradise” and “Christmas in the Caribbean.” Local institutions, particularly the Nevis Film Commission and tourism authorities, have been instrumental in providing comprehensive support and logistical coordination, enhancing the island’s reputation for production efficiency.

    The current film follows preliminary scouting work conducted in December 2025 by producer Autumn Federici of The Ninth House Films, who explored Nevis as a potential location for an independent feature also starring Diggs scheduled for 2026. Industry observers note that Nevis’s combination of authentic Caribbean scenery, production-ready infrastructure, and streamlined permitting processes has attracted filmmakers across multiple genres, including romance, suspense, and action.

    With the Lifetime production scheduled for North American distribution later this year, Nevis anticipates significant exposure to international audiences, potentially boosting tourism among viewers captivated by its on-screen portrayal. The island’s emergence as a filming destination represents a strategic convergence of cultural promotion and economic development through creative industries.

  • Wild 501: How Carol Foster Defined Belize’s Wild

    Wild 501: How Carol Foster Defined Belize’s Wild

    A groundbreaking exhibition titled WILD 501 is currently celebrating the extraordinary photographic legacy of Carol Foster, whose work has fundamentally shaped global perception of Belize’s wilderness for over three decades. The immersive showcase transcends conventional photography displays by integrating archival materials that document Foster’s collaborative journey with her late husband Richard, transforming their shared passion for tropical ecosystems into both artistic expression and conservation advocacy.

    The exhibition curation, spearheaded by Gilvano Swasey, deliberately bridges artistic appreciation with educational utility. Rather than presenting mere aesthetic imagery, WILD 501 functions as multidisciplinary resource where science students can analyze biodiversity patterns, history classes can trace conservation area development, and art students can study compositional techniques. This pedagogical approach reflects the Fosters’ original intention of creating work that simultaneously captivates and educates.

    Beyond their photographic achievements, the couple played instrumental roles in Belize’s environmental protection initiatives, including foundational contributions to the Belize Zoo’s establishment. Their pioneering wildlife documentation, particularly of jaguars and other native species, provided critical visual evidence that supported conservation legislation and habitat protection measures.

    At the exhibition’s emotional core lies Carol Foster’s personal narrative—her serendipitous discovery of Belize through Richard’s descriptions, their shared commitment to environmental storytelling, and the bittersweet reality of presenting their life’s work without her partner. Minister Francis Fonseca acknowledged the Fosters’ unique ability to capture Belize’s ecological majesty in ways that reinforce national pride and environmental stewardship.

    The archival project ensures the preservation and accessibility of their extensive visual record, guaranteeing that future generations can experience Belize’s wilderness through the Foster’s distinctive lens—a perspective characterized by technical excellence, ecological sensitivity, and profound emotional connection to subject matter.

  • Carol Foster’s Lens on Belize Comes to Life in “WILD 501” Exhibition

    Carol Foster’s Lens on Belize Comes to Life in “WILD 501” Exhibition

    A landmark photographic exhibition honoring the lifelong conservation work of visual storyteller Carol Foster has premiered, showcasing Belize’s ecological wonders through the lens of one of its most dedicated documentarians. “WILD 501” represents the culmination of Foster’s collaborative career with her late husband Richard Foster, featuring their internationally recognized nature photography and filmography that brought global attention to Central America’s vibrant ecosystems.

    The exhibition, curated by prominent Belizean artist Gilvano Swasey, serves as both an artistic tribute and historical archive, preserving decades of environmental storytelling that transformed international perceptions of Belize’s biodiversity. The Foster partnership began when Carol first encountered Belize through Richard’s descriptions, immediately recognizing the country as her permanent home and creative muse.

    “Our shared passion for both the natural world and each other created this incredible synergy,” Foster reflected. “We turned our personal fairytale into a mission to showcase Belize’s untouched beauty to worldwide audiences.”

    Beyond their artistic contributions, the Fosters played instrumental roles in conservation initiatives, including foundational support for the establishment of the Belize Zoo. Richard’s absence from the exhibition is acknowledged as profoundly felt, though Carol expresses confidence that returning their collective work to the nation through this comprehensive display fulfills their shared vision.

    “WILD 501” stands as both memorial and living legacy, ensuring future generations can experience Belize’s wilderness through the eyes of two of its most devoted advocates.

  • Caribbean Youth Film Festival originators host creativity and innovation youth forum in St Lucia

    Caribbean Youth Film Festival originators host creativity and innovation youth forum in St Lucia

    Saint Lucia became the epicenter of youthful creative energy as Dove Productions, organizers of the Caribbean Youth Film Festival, hosted a groundbreaking Creativity and Innovation Youth Forum on January 31, 2026. The event, masterminded by the Caribbean Film and Media Academy’s Teen Creators Academy, brought together emerging talents from across the region for an immersive day of artistic development and professional guidance.

    Under the leadership of Lisa Wickham, founder of Imagine Media International, the forum featured multiple interactive platforms designed to nurture young creatives. Participants engaged in specialized workshops including a Digital Creator’s Hub for content development, an Acting and Expression Circle for performance techniques, and a Writer’s Circle for narrative development. Entrepreneurship talks provided crucial business insights for aspiring creative professionals.

    The event’s pinnacle was the Storytelling and Scholarship Talkback Session, featuring extraordinary guests: Tatyana Ali, the acclaimed producer, actress and philanthropist known for her groundbreaking work in entertainment, and Dr. Vaughn Raspberry, Assistant Vice Provost for Education at Stanford University. Their dynamic dialogue offered priceless wisdom, career advice, and inspirational guidance to the next generation of Caribbean storytellers.

    The forum attracted substantial participation from both current and alumni members of the Caribbean Youth Film Festival community, with attendees expressing overwhelming enthusiasm for the enriching experience. The event concluded with the distribution of Certificates of Participation, recognizing each attendee’s dedication to artistic excellence. Organizers expressed profound pride in the initiative’s success and commitment to continuing such developmental programs for Caribbean youth.

  • ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ star Chuck Norris has died

    ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ star Chuck Norris has died

    LOS ANGELES—The entertainment world mourns the loss of martial arts icon and Hollywood action star Chuck Norris, who passed away Thursday morning at age 86. The Norris family confirmed his sudden death through an emotional statement posted on Instagram Friday.

    Family members remembered Norris not only as a global symbol of strength and discipline but as ‘the heart of our family’—a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and incredible brother. The statement highlighted how he lived with profound faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved, inspiring millions worldwide through his work and kindness.

    The legendary fighter turned actor reportedly fell ill on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, where he had been residing. Remarkably, just last week, Norris celebrated his 86th birthday by sharing a video of himself boxing on social media with the caption: ‘I don’t age. I level up.’

    Norris’s extraordinary career spanned decades, beginning with his uncredited debut in the 1968 Dean Martin film ‘The Wrecking Crew.’ His breakthrough came four years later in an epic big-screen battle with kung-fu superstar Bruce Lee in ‘The Way of The Dragon,’ cementing his status as a martial arts film icon. This launched him into a successful acting career that peaked with his starring role in the long-running television series ‘Walker, Texas Ranger.’

    His cultural impact extended far beyond cinema, generating countless memes and jokes about his seemingly superhuman abilities, making him one of America’s most enduring pop culture figures.

  • The Voicebox expands presence on African continent to cover live events

    The Voicebox expands presence on African continent to cover live events

    Jamaican media production powerhouse The Voicebox has launched a strategic expansion into West Africa, establishing operational bases in Nigeria and Ghana to deepen its coverage of the burgeoning Afrobeats scene. Founded in 2010 by CEO Ramona Samuels, the company is leveraging on-the-ground correspondents and production talent to capture major live events and intimate cultural moments from within the continent.

    The initiative has already yielded significant success with its immersive coverage of Ghanaian superstar Stonebwoy’s ‘The Torture Experience’ concert on March 5th. According to Samuels, the production successfully captured the event’s energy, audience engagement, and cultural significance from inside the venue. The company has deployed trusted representatives in both Nigeria and Ghana, including DJ Murphy Dread of Raypower FM Nigeria and cinematographer Frederick Ekon from Ekon Concepts, ensuring authentic and high-quality coverage.

    This expansion represents more than mere geographical growth—it establishes a cultural bridge between Jamaica and West Africa, two regions with deep historical connections through rhythm, resistance, and musical evolution. The Voicebox’s approach maintains its signature production polish while ensuring stories remain locally grounded and culturally textured.

    The produced content airs on Ramona Samuels TV on YouTube, the digital broadcast arm of The Voicebox, which has already generated impressive viewership numbers. Future coverage will include interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, crowd reactions, and cultural commentary surrounding major events. Additionally, The Voicebox is powering coverage for emerging fusion pop artist Samuel K. Golden’s debut album ‘Therapy For The Heart’, aligning with its mission of meaningful storytelling and cross-continental creative exchange.

    This strategic move transforms The Voicebox from Jamaica’s first registered voice-over production house into an international media entity connecting the African diaspora through music, culture, and narrative.

  • Barzini enlists Ding Dong and Qraig Voicemail for ‘Shake’

    Barzini enlists Ding Dong and Qraig Voicemail for ‘Shake’

    A potent musical collaboration has emerged with the release of the new single ‘Shake,’ a vibrant fusion track masterminded by artist Barzini. Released this Friday via Change the Stars Record, the song unites two legendary Jamaican dancehall figures: the dynamic performer Ding Dong, celebrated as the ‘king of dance,’ and the distinctive vocalist Qraig Voicemail, renowned for his work on massive dance hits.

    Barzini, born Jamal McDonnough, conceived the project with the explicit goal of blending dancehall rhythms with hip-hop sensibilities. He revealed the creative genesis to Observer Online, stating that reaching out to Qraig Voicemail was the catalyst that brought the ambitious idea to life. The recording sessions were described as intensely energetic and organic. Barzini recounted the unique experience of Ding Dong dancing and jumping throughout the recording process, transforming it into a live performance. Both featured artists entered the booth to freestyle their verses and the chorus, capturing a raw, high-energy vibe.

    The track is characterized as an upbeat, fun anthem designed to celebrate women in their element on the dance floor. Barzini emphasized its universal appeal, noting it is a song for all women to dance to and for men to appreciate the artistry of the movement.

    This cross-cultural fusion is a hallmark of Barzini’s own musical evolution, deeply rooted in his bi-continental upbringing. Although born in Omaha, Nebraska, he spent his formative first decade in Kingston, Jamaica. After moving to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at age 10, he maintained a powerful connection to his Jamaican heritage, returning to Kingston every holiday. His artistic influences are a direct reflection of this duality: at 11, he immersed himself in hip-hop, drawing inspiration from Lil Wayne, which ignited his ambition to rap. This passion led him to win rap competitions in 2012 and later earn features on platforms like WorldStarHipHop and in Hip Hop Weekly Magazine by 2016.

    His deep dive into the heart of Jamaican music was facilitated by friend and neighbour, producer DJ Karim. Through this connection to the industry insider, who has worked with greats like Elephant Man and Sean Paul, Barzini was granted unprecedented access. He spent time in studios, at parties, and with top-tier artists such as Vybz Kartel and Dexta Daps, solidifying his passion for reggae and dancehall. His formal entry into music began at just 15, recording a demo with Jamaican producer Richard Bello, and was further cemented during a temporary move back to Kingston in 2009, where collaborations with local rappers like Slo-Mo expanded his artistic reach.

  • Popcaan earns his 8th silver certification in the UK

    Popcaan earns his 8th silver certification in the UK

    The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) has awarded a prestigious silver certification to ‘Saturnz Barz,’ the collaborative track between virtual band Gorillaz and Jamaican dancehall artist Popcaan. This official recognition, granted on March 20, marks a significant commercial milestone for the experimental track, representing the equivalent of 200,000 units in combined streaming numbers and sales.

    This achievement represents the eighth silver certification for Popcaan, further solidifying his status as an internationally recognized artist. The track originally debuted in March 2017 through Parlophone Records as part of Gorillaz’s critically acclaimed fifth studio album, ‘Humanz.’ The recording sessions took place in Jamaica, marking Popcaan’s second creative partnership with the virtual musical collective.

    ‘Saturnz Barz’ demonstrated remarkable global performance across various music charts, achieving its highest placement at number 5 on both the US Hot Rock Tracks and New Zealand music charts. The track additionally secured positions within the top 100 in multiple international markets, including the United Kingdom (#87), Portugal (#81), Mexico (#48), Hungary (#33), and Canada (#75).

    Popcaan’s previous silver-certified works include several notable collaborations: ‘My Type,’ ‘Can’t Hold We Down’ featuring Kano, ‘2 Cups’ with Lizzy/Tory Lanez and Fredro, Drake and Partynextdoor’s ‘Twist and Turn,’ ‘Kisses for Breakfast’ with Melissa Steel, ‘Should’ve Been Me’ featuring Naughty Boy and Kyla, and ‘I’m in Control’ with Alunageorge.

  • Alkaline’s new album ‘NPT’, to drop March 21

    Alkaline’s new album ‘NPT’, to drop March 21

    Jamaican dancehall sensation Alkaline has made a significant dual announcement, revealing his forthcoming album ‘NPT’ will debut on March 21st through AutoBamb Records. The release coincides with a landmark performance at Brooklyn’s prestigious Barclays Center, marking the artist’s first-ever United States arena concert.

    The album announcement represents a strategic career milestone for the enigmatic performer, whose artistic journey has been characterized by calculated musical precision and an unwavering artistic identity. ‘NPT’ continues Alkaline’s distinctive trajectory within the dancehall genre, reinforcing the unique position he has cultivated throughout his career.

    This new project builds upon a series of successful releases that have solidified Alkaline’s status as a dominant force in contemporary dancehall culture. His recent single ‘No Emotions’ achieved immediate commercial success, topping both the US Reggae iTunes singles and music video charts while generating substantial engagement across digital platforms. Earlier release ‘Key Man’ similarly established the authoritative tone that defines his musical signature, creating anticipation for the full album presentation.

    Throughout his professional evolution, Alkaline has transitioned from Jamaican breakthrough artist to international phenomenon. His career trajectory—from the impactful debut ‘New Level Unlocked’ to subsequent project ‘Top Prize’—demonstrates both artistic consistency and expanding global influence. His current reach extends across international markets and diaspora communities worldwide.

    The Barclays Center performance constitutes a career-defining moment, placing Alkaline on one of New York’s most iconic stages at a time when audience demand perfectly aligns with his artistic reach. This event, presented by Reggae Fest and New Rules, represents the convergence of commercial success and cultural impact for the dancehall visionary.