Renowned Jamaican Sports Journalist & Broadcaster Donald Oliver Dies, Sending Shockwaves Through the Fraternity

A towering voice in Jamaican sports broadcasting has fallen silent. Renowned journalist and broadcaster Donald Oliver has died suddenly after suffering a medical emergency, sending shockwaves through the local and regional media fraternity. Revered for his versatility, sharp editorial instincts and commanding on-air presence, Oliver’s passing marks the end of an era for sports journalism in Jamaica.

Over a career spanning more than two decades, Donald Oliver built an exceptional résumé across the country’s major media houses, including RJR Communications, CVM Television and SportsMax. Most recently serving as Senior Producer at SportsMax from 2016, he was a key editorial force behind the network’s football and cricket coverage, contributing as a producer, journalist, presenter, writer and consultant. His influence extended far beyond the studio, helping to shape how Caribbean sports stories were told and consumed across the region.

Before SportsMax, Oliver spent over seven years at CVM Communications Group, where he co-founded the popular Football GPS call-in programme and produced several flagship projects, including Spotlight: CVM Sports Year in Review and Road to Champs. His work ranged from schoolboy football commentary to major international assignments, including the FIFA World Cup and the West Indies’ ODI tour of Bangladesh. In 2009, his impact was formally recognised with a Prime Minister’s Youth Award for Excellence in Journalism—an honour he often described as career-defining.

Oliver’s professional journey began remarkably early at RJR Communications, where he was hired full-time at just 17. From radio commentary on schoolboy football to covering CONCACAF tournaments and world athletics championships, he earned a reputation for preparation, insight and passion. As tributes continue to pour in, one thing is clear: Donald Oliver’s voice, vision and dedication helped define Jamaican sports media—and his legacy will continue to inspire the next generation.

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