Barbados Film and Television Association president Senator Jamal Slocombe has paid tribute to veteran actress and broadcaster Peta Alleyne, remembering her contributions to local broadcasting and the performing arts, as well as the personal support she gave to younger talent. Slocombe recalled Alleyne’s encouragement when he competed in Junior Monarch in 2014, describing her as a kind and generous person whose influence will continue to be felt in Barbadian culture.
Below is the full statement:
Some people help shape a nation in ways that are not always recognised in the moment, but become clearer with time. Through their work, their kindness, and the lives they touch, they leave something behind that continues long after they are gone. Peta Alleyne was one such person.
Her passing is a profound loss to Barbados and our cultural community.
A distinguished actress, television and radio broadcaster, producer, and cultural practitioner, Peta made a lasting contribution to our national life. Through her many years of service at the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and her longstanding portrayal of Wilhelmina Herassofat in Laff It Off, she helped bring Barbadian stories to life and gave our people characters, moments, and memories in which they could see themselves.
She was a quiet gem whose work helped shape our broadcasting and performing arts, and whose contribution deserves to be remembered as an important part of our cultural history.
Beyond her professional achievements, Peta was a genuinely kind and generous person. Even when faced with challenges of her own, she remained hopeful and continued to encourage others. She understood something we can all learn from: the value of a life is found not only in what we achieve for ourselves, but also in what we do for others.
As President of the Barbados Film and Television Association (BFTA), I extend heartfelt condolences to her son, Ade, her wider family, friends, and former colleagues.
For me, this loss is also personal. I first knew Peta as an intern at CBC, where she worked as a producer. I will always remember her support when I competed in Junior Monarch in 2014, one of my first appearances in calypso. She helped plan my presentation and rallied behind me as though I were her own son. I also fondly remember hearing her sing the jazz standard Summertime. Those memories remind me of the warmth and love she brought into the lives of others.
Barbados owes Peta Alleyne a debt of gratitude. Not everyone who makes a difference in a country does so from the front of a stage or in the public eye. Some do so through years of dedicated work, by helping others find their confidence, and by giving their time and talent to something greater than themselves. Peta did all of these things, and her influence will live on in our culture and in the people she encouraged.
May we remember her not only for what she accomplished, but for the person she was. In the end, our lives are not measured only by the years we spend here, but by what remains in the hearts of those we leave behind.
Rest peacefully, Peta. Barbados is better for the life you lived, the work you gave, and the kindness you shared.
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