celebrity radar - gossips
Photos: Memorable Moments Of Football Legend, Maradona
Photos: Memorable Moments Of Football Legend, Maradona- I first came to know Diego Armando Maradona in September 1993, when I was watching the qualifying match between Argentina and my country of Colombia for the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
MEXICO. Mexico DF. 29/06/1986. Mundial 1986. Diego Maradona celebrating Argentina victory of World Cup at Azteca stadium.
I first came to know Diego Armando Maradona in September 1993, when I was watching the qualifying match between Argentina and my country of Colombia for the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
Even though I was just a young kid at the time, I knew that Maradona, Argentina’s star player, was something special. His vision, the way he dribbled past his opponents — he was respected and adored not just in his country, but across Latin America and the world.
1980: Diego Maradona (centre) of Argentina celebrating on his team mates shoulders after winning a game. Mandatory Credit: Allsport UK /Allsport
Maradona, who rose from the slums of Buenos Aires to lead Argentina’s national team to victory in the 1986 World Cup, died Wednesday at the age of 60, according to media reports. He reportedly suffered a heart attack at his home in a suburb of Buenos Aires.
As I found out about the news of his death, I asked a few Latinos at NPR to share their memories of Maradona. For us, in our region, we take soccer as seriously as religion — and as such, we all got to experience Maradona from our countries in our own way.
ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 01: Pope Francis meets Diego Maradona during an audience with the players of the ‘Partita Interreligiosa Della Pace’ at Paul VI Hall before the Interreligious Match For Peace at Olimpico Stadium on September 1, 2014 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Pier Marco Tacca/Getty Images)
Here is a selection of tributes from NPR staff members. These have been edited for length and clarity.
San Salvador, 29 de octubre de 2006.
El futbolista Diego Armando Maradona durante el partido en con los amigos de el Mgico Gonzlez realizado en el Estadio Cuscatln.
Foto Lissette Lemus
Santa Maradona’
Since I was born in the U.S., my first intimate exposure to the passion around fútbol was through my friend, colleague and former Alt.Latino co-host Jasmine Garsd. In fact, the very first episode of Alt.Latino 10 years ago was a collection of songs about soccer from Latin America and around the world.
But the one that made her eyes both sparkle with excitement and reflect more than a bit of nostalgia was “Santa Maradona” by the rock en Español pioneers Mano Negra. The recording includes the sonic excitement that she said she could hear every weekend living near a soccer stadium in Buenos Aires. Playing this on repeat to remember Maradona is just as good as watching him playing on YouTube on repeat. – Felix Contreras, co-creator and host of Alt.Latino.
1983: Diego Maradona of Argentina at his local ground where he first played in Argentina. Mandatory Credit: Allsport UK /Allsport
‘A Latino ambassador to the game’
I love walking past the Diego Maradona mural outside of Napoli Pasta Bar in Washington, D.C. I always get good vibes from it and love seeing a Latino displayed on a mural in the nation’s capital. I love that in one of his final years he took a job coaching second-division soccer in Sinaloa, Mexico, and nearly led them to promotion. Shows he really cared about the sport and was a Latino ambassador to the game. – Gustavo Contreras, assistant producer, All Things Considered
Diego Maradona, 16, warms up 12 September 1977 in Buenos Aires. Maradona was born on the 30th of October 1960 in Villa Fiorito, one the poorest suburbs of Buenos Aires. Most people consider him as the best soccerplayer ever in the history of soccer. Het started playing when he was 9 years old. His first club was Cebollitas, the youthteam of Argentinos Juniors. Because of his unknown talent he soon got the nickname �Pibe de Oro�, which literally means �Golden Boy�. He played through his 15th for the youthteam. On his 16th he debuted in professional football with Argentinos Juniors. And a few months later he already debuted in the national team of Argentina. AFP PHOTO (Photo credit should read -/AFP via Getty Images)
‘When Argentina won … we all partied so hard’
As a morenita Mexican-Colombian kid growing up in surfer-centric Southern California, seeing Maradona beat West Germany in Mexico City was huge. I’ve never met my South American family and I’ve always been aware that I was different from the rest of my very Mexican extended family, but when Argentina won, none of that mattered and we all partied so hard. That Hand of God goal against the British was the stuff every colonized country dreams of. – Nadia Grenier, traffic coordinator.
Jan 1981: General view of the scoreboard showing that Diego Maradona of Argentina has scored during a match. Mandatory Credit: Allsport UK /Allsport
MAR DEL PLATA, ARGENTINA – NOVEMBER 10: Diego Maradona, head coach of Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, gestures before a match between Aldosivi and Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata as part of Superliga 2019/20 at Estadio Jose Maria Minella on November 10, 2019 in Mar del Plata, Argentina. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)
Argentinian midfielder Diego Maradona (C) dribbles past three English defenders on June 22, 1986 in Mexico City during the World Cup quarterfinal soccer match between Argentina and England. Maradona scored two goals, the first one with his left hand as he jumped for the ball in front of goalkeeper Peter Shilton, as Argentina beat England 2-1. (Photo by STAFF / AFP) (Photo by STAFF/AFP via Getty Images)
Candles are placed next to a picture of soccer legend Diego Maradona outside the San Paolo Stadium in Naples, Italy, Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2020. Diego Maradona has died. The Argentine soccer great was among the best players ever and who led his country to the 1986 World Cup title before later struggling with cocaine use and obesity. He was 60. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
MEXICO. Mexico DF. 29/06/1986. Mundial 1986. Diego Maradona celebrating Argentina victory of World Cup at Azteca stadium.
BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – NOVEMBER 25: A jersey of Argentina with number ten and a black ribbon hang in a balcony of La Boca after the news of the death of Diego Maradona was known on November 25, 2020 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Diego Maradona, considered one of the biggest football stars in history, died at 60 from a heart attack on Wednesday in Buenos Aires. (Photo by Tomas Cuesta/Getty Images)
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – JUNE 22: Argentina player Diego Maradona outjumps England goalkeeper Peter Shilton to score with his ‘Hand of God’ goal as England defenders Kenny Sansom (top) Gary Stevens (c) and Terry Fenwick look on during the 1986 FIFA World Cup Quarter Final at the Azteca Stadium on June 22, 1986 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Allsport/Getty Images)
NPR
celebrity radar - gossips
Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka & Friends Returns In 2026, As Canada Joins Tour
Laffmattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka & Friends Returns In 2026, As Canada Joins Tour
Nigeria’s longest-running and most consistent comedy tour, LaffMattazz with Gbenga Adeyinka & Friends, has officially announced its 2026 tour themed “Next Chapter.” The upcoming edition marks a major milestone as the brand celebrates its 15th edition with a bold expansion that includes Canada for the first time.
The Next Chapter edition represents a clear evolution from previous years — signaling growth, global reach, and a renewed creative vision. While past editions focused on taking premium comedy experiences across Nigerian cities, the 2026 tour elevates the brand with international exposure, upgraded production, and stronger engagement with audiences at home and in the diaspora.
Speaking on the significance of the new theme, organizers describe the 15th edition as more than a celebration of longevity, but a statement of intent — positioning LaffMattazz as a global Nigerian entertainment export.
CONFIRMED TOUR CITIES & VENUES
•Ibadan – Jogor Center (Easter Sunday, April 5th, 2026)
•Akure – The Dome International Culture & Event Center
•Abeokuta – OOPL Marquee
•Lagos – Balmoral Convention Center
•Canada – Multi-city tour (dates to be announced)
Audiences can expect a rich blend of comedy, music, and surprise guest appearances — delivered with the signature “& Friends” experience that has defined the tour for over a decade.
With the Next Chapter, LaffMattazz reinforces its legacy while opening new doors for African comedy on the global stage.
Kevin David Kaydee Releases Inspiring Single “Oluwa Settle Me”
Rising music artist Kevin David Kaydee has released a powerful new single titled Oluwa Settle Me, a soulful Afro-inspired anthem that blends heartfelt prayer with modern rhythm.
“Oluwa Settle Me” captures the everyday cry of many believers seeking breakthrough, peace, and divine favour. With emotionally rich melodies and uplifting instrumentation, the song expresses a sincere plea to God for complete answers to life’s pressing questions—career, destiny, relationships, and spiritual fulfilment.
Drawing from Afrocentric sounds and contemporary gospel influences, the track stands out for its simplicity, sincerity, and spiritual depth. Kevin David Kaydee delivers the message with passion, creating a worshipful atmosphere that resonates across age groups and cultures.
The song’s message of hope and dependence on God positions it as more than just music,it is a prayer set to melody. By fusing spirituality with modern lifestyle rhythms, “Oluwa Settle Me” reflects the growing wave of gospel music that speaks directly to real-life struggles while pointing listeners back to faith.
As gospel music continues to evolve across Africa and beyond, Kevin David Kaydee’s latest release reinforces music as a powerful tool for encouragement, reflection, and spiritual connection.
“Oluwa Settle Me” is now gaining attention among gospel music lovers for its relatable message and soulful sound, marking another significant step in the artist’s growing musical journey.
**Another Feather for Nollywood Icon Fidelis Duker
*Lagos, Nigeria* — In a remarkable celebration of artistic achievement, renowned Nollywood figure Fidelis Duker received yet another prestigious accolade last weekend, solidifying his role as a key player in the growth of the Nigerian and African film industries. The award was presented in a ceremony held at Duker’s Lagos office by esteemed film and theatre director, Mr. Alex Eyengho, founder of the Warri International Film Festival, alongside Marketing and Strategy Director, Mrs. Matel Eyengho.
The recent recognition builds upon Duker’s previous achievement at last year’s ECOFEST in Dakar, where he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. This latest accolade is a testament to his unwavering dedication and substantial contributions to the cinematic landscape.
“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” Duker expressed during the event. In his speech, Alex Eyengho lauded Duker’s pioneering efforts in establishing significant film festivals in Nigeria, particularly the Abuja International Film Festival, which has played a vital role in promoting local talent and storytelling.
Eyengho emphasized, “Fidelis has not only paved the way for emerging filmmakers but has also helped elevate Nigerian cinema on the global stage. His creative vision and commitment inspire all of us in the industry.”
As Duker reflects on this honor, he acknowledges the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving success. “This acknowledgment reaffirms to my team and me that our work is being observed, and it motivates us to continue contributing to the development of our sector,” he stated.
With numerous projects on the horizon, Duker remains a relentless advocate for the growth and recognition of African cinema. His latest recognition is yet another testament to the vibrant and evolving landscape of Nollywood, as industry leaders like him continue to inspire future generations.
As the film industry anticipates the next phase of development, Duker’s continued influence signals a promising future for filmmakers in Nigeria and across the continent.
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