On what would have been Bob Marley’s 79th birthday on February 6, 2024, Cindy Breakspeare, a former Miss World 1976 and Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley’s mother—shared a heartfelt birthday tribute to the late Raggae artiste.
Cindy Breakspeare, 69, posted pictures of herself, Damian, and Bob Marley along with information about the locations where she and the reggae icon made “countless” memories.
“Bob, on what would have been your 79th birthday, I cherish our amazing son, Damian, celebrate the incredible impact you’ve had globally, and remember the wonderful times we shared,” the message read.
“From 56 Hope Road to the residences of your mother in Delaware, Miami, New York, Oakley Street in London, Trinidad, The Bahamas, and other places.” We have innumerable memories of you, but our love for you knows no bounds. Happy birthday to the universally adored and respected hero of the people.
During his marriage to Rita Marley, the Buffalo Soldier hitmaker had affairs with numerous women, including Breakspeare.
The forthcoming biopic Bob Marley: One Love will depict their six-year romance, which ended in 1981 when he passed away. Umi Myers, a British actress, will portray Breakspeare.
Fans of Bob Marley, however, felt it was extremely disrespectful, so they don’t see this as just another innocent birthday tribute.
“His wife lived at 56 Hope Road,” one person tweeted.
Another person wrote, “It’s consoling to know that side chick behavior hasn’t changed over the years.”
Cindy Breakspeare was defended elsewhere as someone who wrote, “You really don’t know Bob Marley, for those of you who are so negative about this post. It is ridiculous to treat the mother of the youngest veteran with such disrespect. Please be mindful of your past and give Miss World some space”.
I was aware that Bob Marley had eleven children from nine women. He was married to his eighth wife. I had Google open the entire movie, so I was hoping they addressed it in the movie. I was unaware that Rita, his wife, also had two outside children with him. I am aware that’s accurate,” she tweeted.
Breakspeare has previously spoken about her relationship with Marley. She once told a news outlet that their romance was “scary” because “‘uptown’ girls of light complexion didn’t have relationships with Rastas.”
Yet, she knew the relationship would be life-changing. “I knew I was crossing that invisible line in the sand […] Bob was a man on a mission who knew what he was about. He was very purpose-driven, inspirational, and influential all rolled into one. I knew that if I became involved with Bob, it would change my life forever,” Breakspeare once noted.