Wed | Dec 6, 2023

The ‘Talia Touch’ coming to ‘Rising Stars’

Soares ‘excited’ to make mark as new host

Published:Thursday | September 28, 2023 | 12:10 AMKenrick Morgan/Gleaner Writer
Dr Terri-Karelle Reid (left) officially handed over hosting duties for ‘Digicel Rising Stars’ to Talia Soares last Sunday.
Dr Terri-Karelle Reid (left) officially handed over hosting duties for ‘Digicel Rising Stars’ to Talia Soares last Sunday.

When asked what she hopes to bring to her newfound hosting duties, media personality and attorney-at-law Talia Soares says fans can expect to see the ‘Talia Touch’ in full effect.

Soares was named the new host of Digicel Rising Stars on Television Jamaica after popular host and author Dr Terri-Karelle Reid announced she was stepping down after 12 years.

In an interview with The Gleaner, Soares not only shared her excitement, but also what she hopes to bring to one of Jamaica’s most popular TV shows.

“All the hosts over the years have been great, from Denise [Hunt] straight down to Terri, and everyone has brought their own element to the show. So I hope to do the same by bringing the ‘Talia Touch’,” she said.

This season of Rising Stars marked the programme’s 19th anniversary, and Soares says the show has been special every step of the way.

“It’s really a show that gives people the opportunity to change their lives by having these extremely talented people showcase their talents not only to Jamaica, but to the world. And that has made it special,” she said.

The show’s producer Sharon Schroeter shared similar sentiments, and, in an interview with The Gleaner, shared she still has a lot more seasons in her.

“It doesn’t feel like 19 years. I could do another 20,” she said.

Joining the ranks of an established show can come with some trepidation but Soares says she’s looking to make her own mark. “It’s about walking in my own shoes,” she said.

This season of Rising Stars ends Sunday with the grand finale. And, while Soares won’t share who has her vote, she did mention she can’t wait to see the thrill of it all.

Rising Stars did have a buzz this year, thanks to the level of talented people that entered. So I am really excited to be a part of that. It is going to be a two-hour show with some special performances, and it just going to be a good time,” she said.

kenrick.morgan@gleanerjm.com