Leonie Evadne Forbes OD was a Jamaican actress, broadcaster, and producer who has been active in theatre, radio, and television. Forbes was born and grew up in Kingston, Jamaica. She attended Kingston Senior School before going on to Excelsior College and the Durham College of Commerce.
Leonie Forbes Obituary
Born on June 14, 1937, Forbes was raised in Kingston as an only child. According to the National Library of Jamaica, she attended St. George’s Preparatory School, Merriwood Elementary School, Miko Practical School, Kingston High School, Excelsior College, and Durham College.
Her first jobs after leaving school were with Sir Philip Sherlock’s typist, then playwright Barry Recode. In 1955, Forbes became one of the first voices on the radio station as an announcer for the now-defunct Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC).
She studied for six years at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, where she completed a Diploma in Radio, Television, and Drama. Forbes also wrote the screenplay for the BBC’s Caribbean service.
Forbes has starred in twelve pantomimes and has appeared in plays such as “Sea Mama,” “Ropes and Crosses,” and “Old Story Time.” She has also starred in films such as Sons of Babylon, Paradise Club, and Milk and Honey. She will forever remain in our hearts.