In a literal twist of fate, the band continues to perform, albeit without its charismatic frontman. Despite the tragic occurrence of lead singer Taime Downe's fiancée, Kimberly Burch, presumably plunging into the depths three days prior, Faster Pussycat will honor their commitment to rock the stage later this week on an '80s nostalgia-infused cruise. A confidant close to the band's circle revealed that Downe, heart-wrenchingly, will forgo the performance, prompting the group to delve into a medley of cover tunes rather than their signature repertoire.
Burch, aged 56, reportedly tumbled off the grand Royal Caribbean vessel, Explorer of the Seas, on March 2nd, amidst a heated dispute with Downe, 60. The circumstances surrounding her fall remain shrouded in uncertainty—whether it was an accidental slip or a deliberate leap. Burch's mother, speaking to TMZ, expressed her坚信 that her daughter would never wilfully harm herself. According to Page Six, the couple had shared a seven-year-long romance.
Determined to uphold their cruise ship engagement, Faster Pussycat will proceed with a second concert aboard the voyage, amidst a star-studded lineup featuring Squeeze, Adam Ant, Tiffany, and Men at Work. The Royal Caribbean's press department remained mum on inquiries pertaining to the itinerary. However, a spokesperson for the cruise line told THR on Tuesday morning, "Our diligent crew swiftly initiated a search and rescue mission, collaborating with local authorities, while offering support and solace to the bereaved family. Respecting their privacy, we have no further information to disclose."
THR reached out to an anonymous passenger for insights into the unfolding drama. "The incident unfolded around 11 p.m., as Squeeze serenaded the night. An emergency announcement blared through the PA system, informing everyone that someone had plummeted overboard, prompting the ship to halt and reverse course to locate the missing soul," recounted the passenger. "The vessel remained stationary for hours, with safety boats equipped with floodlights scanning the surrounding waters. A neighboring cruise ship joined in the search, illuminating the area with its own beams. My wife conversed with deck-dwellers who whispered tales of a woman being captured on camera. Though unconfirmed, the ship eventually regained momentum and sailed forth. This morning, an announcement via PA system announced that the US Coast Guard had taken charge of the search. We arrived in Nassau, Bahamas, slightly delayed, yet excursions remained unaffected. Since then, we've heard nothing more."
This cruise, a symphony of over 50 concerts, offers fans an unparalleled opportunity to mingle with their idols. The 2024 edition boasts an impressive roster including Wang Chung, Air Supply, Soft Cell, The English Beat, Debbie Gibson, The Escape Club, and 38 Special. Embarking from Miami, this seven-day roundtrip adventure calls at Nassau, San Juan, and Puerto Plata, promising an unforgettable journey through the golden era of music.
