No more Now: Curtains draw on TTT morning show

THE seemingly abrupt cancellation of TTT’s Now Morning Show on December 18 – just one day before its final scheduled episode – left many loyal viewers speculating about the reasons behind the decision.

The programme, known for spotlighting a wide range of performances, interviews and musical segments, first aired on November 1, 2022.

The show hosted by media practitioner Ainka Williams, a television and radio host, voice-over talent and writer. Williams previously worked as an entertainment news presenter at Synergy TV. She joined state-owned TTT in 2019 and also produces and co-hosts the TeamUp morning show on Next 99.9 FM.

The show was co-hosted by, DJ, event producer, music producer and sound engineer Jayron “Rawkus” Remy, who also hosts The Saturday Brunch on Talk City 91.1 FM. Remy holds a postgraduate diploma in arts and cultural enterprise management from UWI.

On December 18, Newsday spoke with a source who said both hosts remain part of the “TTT family” and were informed of the show’s cancellation in advance, though the source did not say how much notice was given.

“This is nothing new. Whenever a government changes, it’s expected,” the source said.

Newsday contacted TTT’s acting head of news Stacy-Ann Providence on the same day, but she declined to comment. Calls to TTT chairman Michael Kerr went unanswered. Kerr was appointed the station’s new chairman on October 31.

On December 21, Newsday spoke with Remy, who reflected on his time with the programme.

“Over my five years on the show, we’ve had many memorable guests and moments. A real defining moment for me was when I was entrusted to do the Spotlight interviews with politicians, union leaders, thought leaders, etc. That was when I realised I had stepped into a different zone of my career,” he said.

Remy added that one of the most valuable lessons he learned from his time on the show was the power of teamwork.

“Teamwork can make or break a show.”

Addressing the programme’s viewers, he said, “To the fans, I say thank you. Thanks for your kind words, thanks for trusting us, thanks for always saying hi, and thanks for the criticism as well.”

He hopes the show’s legacy will be one that is remembered for reflecting the diversity of the people and showcasing how much Trinidad and Tobago has to offer.

“I genuinely hope we can aspire together, work together and achieve together, as one nation.”