AMERICAN actor Taye Diggs, best known for his role in the film version of Terri MacMillan’s novel How Stella Got Her Groove Back, is scheduled to leave the island today after a four-day book promotional tour.

Diggs was promoting his children’s books Chocolate Me and Mixed Me.

He said Chocolate Me was based on a poem he wrote and life lessons learnt from his mother, while Mixed Me explores values he hopes to pass on to his bi-racial son, Walker.

Speaking to the Jamaica Observer at the Caenwood Centre in St Andrew yesterday, Diggs said he was pleased with the reception of his work. He made stops at the Mount Alvernia Preparatory School in Montego By, St Richards Primary and El Centro in the Corporate Area.

“The response has been great and I definitely have to come back. I have always been struck by how beautiful the people and the country are. Each trip I am meeting new people… this was my first experience in Kingston and I look forward to getting to know more about the facets of Jamaica…Gotta come back,” he said.

Diggs played opposite Angela Bassett in How Stella Got Her Groove Back, which was shot on location in Jamaica.

In addition to promoting his books, Diggs was in Kingston for the Launch of National Careers Week scheduled for February.

He disclosed his Jamaican trip has reaped benefits as plans are being put in place for a third instalment of The Best Man.

According to the actor, he ran into director Malcolm Lee and discussed plans for Best Man 3. He said discussions are to be held with other cast members so shooting can commence.

— Richard Johnson