Holly Betaudier - The Arima Kid
Sunday Guardian
Arima Fest 2001
July 29, 2001
Page 16
He is fondly remembered as the down-to-earth, bubbly host of "Scouting For Talent". And although he is no longer the MC of the popular night-time show, Holly Betaudier is still the face often associated with the long-runing series.
Born in the vicinity of the Santa Rosa R. C. Church, Betaudier is the product of "black" French heritage. Raised by his grandmother ZaZa Beaudier, whom he said spoke "little English and a lot of patois", Holly recalls a childhood laced with discipline and spirituality.
During his early years, he attended Arima Boy's R C. School. It was at this prominent institution that he cultivated a love for drama. The activity would catapult the young man into a career in media and entertainment, spanning close to six decades.
During Holly B's (as he affectionately became known) stint at Radio Trinidad, he launched the Christmas programme, "Parang with Holly", which later became a televison series. Prior to this, he was also the host of "Holly's Happy Moments", a popular radio show that had featured the creme de la creme in local talent.
Now 76, and still a household name, Betaudier is far from considering a graceful retirement.
Presently occupied with the production of an Independence Day special for television, Betaudier's work, which reflects the diverse cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago, can also be seen on special observances such as Mother's Day.