XTV reporter Jovany O’Brien passes

By William Ysaguirre (Freelance Writer)

BELIZE CITY, Tues. Nov. 10, 2026

   The staff of Krem Radio, XTV and the entire Kremandala family are in mourning at the untimely passing of XTV reporter Jovany O’Brien Rowley, who passed away unexpectedly over the weekend. But not only Kremandala, for despite the competitive environment, there exists a lot of camaraderie among radio and TV journalists who often join forces and share information in the media landscape. Jovany was well known and appreciated across the media spectrum in Belize City for sure. 

   His sudden passing was a shock to all, and it was observed that he is the fifth journalist to have passed this year from health issues, the others being Aaron Humes, Ruben Morales Iglesias, Roy Davis, and Brother Fem Cruz; and we might add the versatile teacher/journalist Apolinar Tzul who left us this year also. R.I.P. all!

   XTV’s Mose Hyde paid tribute to Jovany this morning on WUB. “We are deeply saddened, and it has not really sunk in for me and for many of us. Jovany was a quiet brother and a very important piece of our machinery here.”

   7 News Belize noted that “42-year-old Jovany O’Brien has been working at XTV for 4 years and was found dead in his home last night.”   

   News 5 Live observed that “O’Brien entered journalism a few years ago. He dedicated most of his work to positive news, including sports stories, good-news and feel-good features, and stories on people who represented Belize well abroad.”

   And Love FM Belize commented, “Originally from Orange Walk, he later made Belize City his home. Away from the newsroom, he lived a simple and private life, sharing it with his beloved cat, Ms. Daisy, who was a constant companion. Before becoming a journalist, Jovany spent years as a medical technologist at Belize Medical Associates. He earned the respect of those around him through quiet professionalism, humility and genuine decency.”

   Details on funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. 

   Our sincere condolences to all his relatives and friends.  Rest in peace, Brother Jovany O’Brien Rowley!