Jamaicans grieved the passing of actor/comedian who died one week after James Brown on New Year’s Day. They were reflecting the loss of the island’s best loved achievers and a long list of citizens that departed in 2006 when news of the Florida death highlighted their day. Hyatt, 75, is the last of the island’s veteran, funnymen to leave the stage. He was star of the stage, film and television. Hyatt had become a staple through 12 years co-hosting the annual Reggaesoca Awards with Fae Ellington. Patrons anticipated his comedic routines, the antics he displayed and his Caribbean interpretation of international items this year.

In 2006, Hyatt received the Louise Bennett Award of Distinction at the South Florida gathering.
“We will miss his inimitable talent, his sweet disposition and his personable charm,” Winsome Charlton, founder of the Reggaesoca Awards said.
Some of the prominent Jamaicans who died last year include: Culture’s Joseph Hill, ska pioneer and leader of the Aces, Desmond Dekker, the first lady Jamaican comedy, Louise Bennett-Coverley and radio broadcaster Neville Willoughby.