Minister with responsibility for Information, Senator the Honourable Sandrea Falconer has expressed sadness on the passing this morning of veteran journalist and talk show host, Wilmot "Mutty" Perkins.
She says his passing has robbed Jamaica of an outspoken and fearless Journalist and talk show host who would never back down from his convictions about any issue.
Minister Falconer says: “Our nation needs journalists who keep debates about issues in our society alive and radio talk show host, "Mutty" Perkins was supreme. His programme welcomed all guests, but his discussions were rightfully tuned to challenge the actions and statements of persons who hold elected office. Despite his incisive thoughts about leaders, he was still a simple man who could laugh with and express genuine sorrow with his callers from all walks of life who shared their stories with him on a daily basis. We extend our condolences to his widow of 56 years and broadcast practitioner, Elaine Perkins, his family and close friends."
Wilmot Perkins was a popular radio host who successfully moved his programme across stations over the years. His first programme was, 'What's your Grouse' aired on RJR in 1960. He moved to the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation on the programme 'Public Eye' and then Hot Line in the 1970s and 1980s. When KLAS FM started in the 1990s, Perkins hosted 'Straight Talk' on KLAS FM, then moved to 'Perkins On Line' on Hot 102FM. Perkins moved that programme to Power 106 in April 2002, and was on air until very recently.
His newspaper credits include The Gleaner, and The Sunday Herald where he was a columnist.