Duante Beddingfield serves as the Detroit Free Press' arts and culture reporter, bringing more than two decades of media experience to his role. The veteran journalist joined the Detroit-based publication in 2020, fulfilling a long-held dream of working in the city's vibrant arts scene.
Before arriving in Detroit, Beddingfield built his career in his hometown of Dayton, Ohio, where he worked for multiple publications including the Dayton Daily News and Dayton City Paper. His media experience extends beyond print journalism, as he also produced and hosted "Equinox," a three-hour weekly jazz program that aired on WYSO-FM, the NPR affiliate serving the Dayton area.
The transition to Detroit represented the realization of a personal goal for Beddingfield, who had spent years dreaming of pursuing an arts-focused career in the Motor City. His current position allows him to combine his extensive journalism background with his passion for covering Detroit's cultural landscape.
Since July 2025, Beddingfield has expanded his professional responsibilities by taking on the role of co-chair for Gannett's Black Forward employee resource group. In this capacity, he helps coordinate efforts to bring hundreds of employees together across the company to share ideas, provide mutual support, and help colleagues maximize their access to Gannett's resources and opportunities.
Outside of his professional duties, Beddingfield lives in Detroit with his wife, Caitlin Cartwright, who works as an artist. The couple shares their home with three cats named Niles, Daphne, and Luna. During his free time, Beddingfield enjoys cooking and hosting gatherings for friends and family members, watching classic television shows and films, participating in karaoke, and exploring new restaurants throughout the city.
