A Profiled Life, A Hardtalking Giant
"It's as if one of your Uncles has died"
For 30 years Jamaican's have tuned in Sunday after Sunday to the banter and chatter of one Ian Boyne as he interviewed a myriad of guests since the shows' inception in 1987. Thirty years ago he had a great idea and just needed a medium to showcase it. The concept surrounded highlighting interesting people who would tell their own stories of trials, tears, tenacity, and triumph in their own words. He was given six months of JBC but the show has grown into a movement for a generation.
Everyone in Jamaica has either heard of Profile, watched it, were inspired by it or wanted to be on it one day. Sad to say we won't get that opportunity. Rarely does a Journalist ever get such a following with his simple idea he has shaped the way in which an entire generation thinks.
He was also the host of another TVJ staple, Religious Hardtalk. In this hard-hitting, controversial, and thought-provoking program, Ian Boyne delved into matters concerning the Church and religion. Through probing, no holds barred, incisive discussion, debates, and interviews with diverse guests, Religious Hard Talk reveals different points of view, bringing clarity to a number of issues. In a very non-bigotrous way, he allowed Jamaicans to hear different viewpoints from a wide range of people on their religious beliefs. He also brought in people to talk about their conversion stories. One of the most-watched Religious Hardtalk episodes was featuring former intense host Pepita. That episode had the largest "live" viewers and people were still watching for weeks following the episode. Tuesday nights became another staple for many Jamaicans.
As for my Jamaican's, my age Profile was a show that you were either forced to watch or you skipped the channel once it came on but as we grew older each story even the snippet of it inspired you to continue along your journey. For a long time, I thought I'd never be on Profile because I don't have some rags to riches story. But that is not what Ian envisaged the show to be. Unknowingly Ian Boyne has inspired so many Jamaicans to be better and think about their own spiritual journey. He was doing what he loved in his uniquely canning way. He always allowed his guests to take center stage and never imposed his own agenda into either of his shows. I was commenting on memorable journalists last week and Ian Boyne was one that comes first to my mind.
Now as the nation mourns his passing, we reminisce on his unique Interviewing style with #Profileinheaven
Ian - "What happened next?"
David - "Alright so boom. Me tek de stone and sail it inna de tallas head. Drop. Dead. Shatta ting! Ian - "What a story of determination." #ProfileInHeaven
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