OPPOSITION Leader Andrew Holness’ guest appearance on last Saturday’s Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall talent show went down well with viewers, according to the series’ executive producer Mark Kenny.

Holness, a former Jamaica prime minister and leader of the Jamaica Labour Party, was guest judge on the popular televised programme. He received a warm welcome from resident judges Cordell ‘Skatta’ Burrell, Khadine ‘Miss Kitty’ Hylton and Professor Nuts.

According to Kenny, “Mr Holness was great. The contestants were happy to hear his comments, and we know that a few were encouraged by his words. It was great that he was with us on a night where so much of the music spoke about societal issues and upliftment for the country. That wasn’t all planned but it was great that it happened that way.”

Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall is aired live on TVJ on Saturday nights from D’Entrance on Constant Spring Road in Kingston. The event attracts a hardcore audience who give their views on everything from performers to fashion to judges.

A representative from the ruling People’s National Party will be a guest judge before the series ends in three weeks.

“We have reached out to the PNP and we will know within a week who will be available to represent on the show. The response has been positive so far, and we know that a representative will be proposed to us in short order,” Kenny explained.

There are six contestants (Devin Di Dakta, Sean De Vere, Lava Vein, Triple A, Angel Eyes and Ffrench) left in the Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall competition. A new King and Queen will be announced at the grand finals on May 9.

— Kevin Jackson