In a shocking twist on Sunday night, the semi-finals of Digicel Rising Stars saw longstanding host Dr. Terri Karelle Reid announce her replacement, Attorney-at-Law and media personality Talia Soares.
Dr. Reid, Terri or ‘the Jamaican girl’ as she is affectionately called, has been the host of the local singing competition since 2012, a time when all seemed too shaky for the show as they could not find the right host.
In a statement, she thanked Jamaica for accepting her for the last 12 years and said “Thank you for the kind words, encouragement and the warmth. You embraced this girl from Portmore, St. Catherine, with no media ability, and you have allowed her to discover her love and passion for it. I have never taken any hug, kiss, or other acts of endearment for granted.”
She also saluted the production team led by super producer Sharon Schroeter.
Come Sunday, October 1, the talented Talia Soares will officially take over Digicel Rising Stars’ main mic as host and carry Jamaica through its 19th finals.
Talia is no stranger to the screen, mic, or stage – she kicked off her media experience in 2012 when she was paired with Ashley Miller to host the trendy entertainment show “Intense”. Since then, she has moved on to radio and morning TV.
While she has the experience and knows what it will take, she understands she has ‘high heels’ to fill and is ready for the challenge.
Talia told SLEEK Terri has always been an inspiration and “we have had a great relationship over the years. She has been a light and has grown into the superstar she is and I am proud of my sister, to say the least.”
The TV and radio personality also told SLEEK “I am so excited, honored, and blessed to be the next host of Digicel rising stars,” and added that she is “looking forward to being welcomed into the homes of Jamaicans and the world at large every Sunday night.”
She also said, “ I am extremely grateful to be guided by my first and favourite producer Sharon Schroeter who has not only believed in my talent and abilities but has also helped and watched me grow over the years into the media personality I am today.”
Fun Fact: Terri Karell Miss Jamaica 2005
Talia was a top 10 finalist in 2015
Terri a Doctor of Medicine in Veterinary Medicine
Talia an Attorney-at-law
Both have successfully branched off and taken on areas such as Public Relations, Marketing, Project Management, Brand Management, and Media (radio, digital & TV).
From Terri to Talia… the new host says “We are going to bring the energy and we are soaring to the stars!”
