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Bell Media announces 2024/25 original programming slate

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From a media release:

Bell Media announced today its lineup of English and French-language original content for 2024/25, totaling 98 titles and 839 hours of premier original programming and supported documentaries. The exciting slate celebrates homegrown stories from well-known Canadian talent and pedigreed creatives. Nearly three quarters of original programming hours are comprised of renewed fan-favourites and returning franchises, leaning heavily on proven success with audiences. The slate is set to expand with an anticipated 300 additional hours to be announced throughout the year.

Among today’s announcements:

  • Crave announces super-sized cast for its first-ever original animated series, SUPER TEAM CANADA, coming in early 2025! Will Arnett, Cobie Smulders, Kevin McDonald, Charles Demers, Brian Drummond, Ceara Morgana, and Veena Sood, star in the all-new comedy series about the exploits of six, little-known Canadian superheroes, while Jay Baruchel guest stars, and Bryan Adams performs the theme song.
  • Multilingual original programming continues to expand on Crave with new docuseries THE REBUILD: INSIDE THE MONTREAL CANADIENS, a behind-the-scenes look at the Canadiens’ 2023-2024 season, and previously announced series BON COP BAD COP and SO LONG, MARIANNE.
  • BOA, Jada Shada Hudson, Kandy Muse, Kerri Colby, Lawrence Chaney, and Luxx Noir London revealed as the international queens slaying at a Canadian winter retreat in SLAYCATION, the brand-new format developed by Bell Media and World of Wonder from the Drag Race universe and Blue Ant Studios, coming to Crave this winter.
  • Legendary comedian and actor Mark McKinney embarks on a mission to uncover Canada’s most fulfilling pastimes in new CTV Original comedy series MARK MCKINNEY NEEDS A HOBBY.
  • Newly announced Crave Originals include: from co-showrunners Sasha Leigh Henry and Tania Thompson, and executive produced by Graeme Manson, international drug trafficking drama BAD TRIPS, inspired by true events; lifestyle-reality series DRAG BRUNCH SAVED MY LIFE, starring CANADA’S DRAG RACE Season 1 winner and ETALK correspondent Priyanka; and new comedy special and accompanying documentary DARCY & JER: NO REFUNDS.
  • Following critical acclaim and ratings success, Crave renews two of its most popular comedy series, LATE BLOOMER (Season 2) and THE TRADES (Season 2).
  • After its recent Season 3 premiere, with new episodes rolling out weekly, Crave confirms its smash-hit original series SHORESY (Season 4) is set to return with six-episodes; created by and starring Jared Keeso, and produced by New Metric Media in association with Play Fun Games, Season 4 goes into production this summer.
  • More fan-favourite originals renewed include: SISTERS (Season 2); and previously announced CANADA’S DRAG RACE (Season 5) and CANADA’S DRAG RACE: CANADA VS. THE WORLD (Season 2).
  • CTV confirms new seasons of fan-favourite series THE TRAITORS CANADA (Season 2), SULLIVAN’S CROSSING (Season 3), SIGHT UNSEEN (Season 2), and BATTLE OF THE GENERATIONS (Season 2); which join the previously announced renewals of award-winning series THE AMAZING RACE CANADA (Season 10) and CHILDREN RUIN EVERYTHING (Season 4).
  • For Bell Media’s suite of Specialty Channels is new high-stakes luxury renovation unscripted original series QUEEN OF THE CASTLE with Canadian socialite Ann Kaplan Mulholland and her husband Stephen Mulholland; the haunting new original series REVIVAL, along with the return of SURREALESTATE (Season 3); and the most-watched series on CTV Comedy starring Paul Rabliauskas, ACTING GOOD (Season 3).
  • This fall, Noovo delivers fan-favourite series OCCUPATION DOUBLE MEXIQUE, while Crave has its new spinoff, OD TENTATIONS AU SOLEIL; the Québec adaptation of QUEL TALENT !; and the return of LES TRAITRES (Season 2).
  • Newly announced factual series include MY PET ATE WHAT?, ROCKY MOUNTAIN WRECKERS, SHIPWRECK KINGS (working title), THE LAST CAPTAINS, and TRUE CSI (working title), while fan-favourites BUSH WRECK RESCUE, EAST HARBOUR HEROES, HIGHWAY THRU HELL, PETS & PICKERS, TIMBER TITANS, and Bell Media Studios’ FORENSIC FACTOR: A NEW ERA and THE MIGHTIEST are all set to return to Bell Media Specialty Channels with new seasons.
  • Bell Media Studios orders new seasons of CTV YOUR MORNING, THE SOCIAL, ETALK, and THE GOOD STUFF WITH MARY BERG.

Bell Media’s New English and French-Language Original Entertainment Production Slate Includes the Following, With Additional Titles to Be Announced. For Returning Series, Click Here.

New Series:

BAD TRIPS – Crave

BAD TRIPS is a six-episode limited drama set in the epic summer of 2015 when Toronto was on the come up. Porscha, a 19-year-old aching to break free from her stifling suburban life, falls hard for a charismatic and connected young hustler who introduces her to the city’s creative players and downtown party scene, where she meets a music editor at an influential media company who offers her a free trip to Sydney, Australia and an all access pass to a world she craves to be a part of. But when the trip turns out to be a front to smuggle 81 bricks of cocaine for the cartel, Porscha is locked up in Sydney, trying to figure out how the hell she landed in prison while desperately trying to get herself out. (Blink49 Studios, Real Friends Media, The Donaldson Company, Dreamchaser Entertainment)

BON COP BAD COP – Crave *previously announced*
Drawing inspiration from the blockbuster films Bon Cop, Bad Cop 1 and 2, the series chronicles the escapades of Martin Ward and David Bouchard (portrayed by Colm Feore and Patrick Huard), who are compelled to unite once more for a police investigation set within an Indigenous community. They team up with Joe, an Indigenous officer, and Gabrielle, David’s daughter, who prove to be as unconventional as the original duo when they embark on an action-packed journey across Canada. (Attraction, Panik Fictions Inc)

DON’T EVEN – Crave *previously announced*
A Crave and APTN original series, DON’T EVEN is an urban Indigenous coming-of-age story that follows two best friends – Violet and Harley – in late ’90s Winnipeg as they grapple with their uncertain futures. After humiliation at her high school grad, Violet wants to make the most of the last summer before moving away for university, as Harley distracts herself from the big dilemma of what’s next. As the lifelong BFFs bask in newfound freedom, and face adult life choices, cracks begin to form in their once impenetrable bond. Starring Leenah Robinson, Victoria Turko, Joel Oulette, Gail Maurice, and Jennifer Podemski.  (Pier 21, Frantic Films, Sekowan Media)

DOUBLE JEU – Crave (French language, available with English subtitles) *previously announced*
Adam and Mounir, two Maghrebi actors, are offered to take part in a top-secret police mission where they will become double agents and infiltrate various criminal circles. They can’t pass up the chance to play the role of a lifetime. (KOTV)

DRAG BRUNCH SAVED MY LIFE – Crave
Get ready to slay and sauté with DRAG BRUNCH SAVED MY LIFE. World renowned drag superstar Priyanka is no stranger to serving looks, delivering gorgeous vocals, and keeping the world fed with content that everyone eats right up. In a post-pandemic world where restaurants are struggling to make ends meet – Priyanka, flanked by her haute cuisine experts, event planning extraordinaires, and locally “Pri-picked queens,” embark on a mission to give restaurants a second shot by helping them stage their very own drag brunch production. (Sphere Media)

LA GUERRES DES MARIÉES – Canal Vie (French language) *previously announced*
In this competition series, each episode sees four competing couples attend each other’s weddings. Participants judge each event according to specific criteria. Everyone has a different idea of their perfect wedding day, but only one couple can win LA GUERRE DES MARIÉS and win a honeymoon under the sun. (Sphère Média)

THE LAST CAPTAINS – Bell Media Specialty Channel
THE LAST CAPTAINS is a new docuseries following generational fishing families living in a remote archipelago in the Gulf of the St. Lawrence. While the fishermen chase big catches and paydays on the water, the 400 residents in town are in the fight of their lives to stave off Mother Nature and preserve their unique community. (Big Time Decent)

MADE FOR TV WITH BOMAN MARTINEZ-REID – Crave *previously announced*
Premiering Friday, July 12 on Crave, the six-part, 30-minute scripted series created by two-time Canadian Comedy Award winning comedian Natalie Metcalfe, follows trailblazing TikTok star and Canadian content creator Boman Martinez-Reid as he tries to make the jump from social media personality to television star. Fusing elements of sitcoms, mockumentaries, and reality shows, each episode follows Martinez-Reid as he tackles a new genre of television with the help of celebrity advisors and “real” people. His journey to find his “genre” becomes both professional and personal, as he turns his failures to successes, and finds friendships in the strangest of places. (Alibi Entertainment)

MARCO LACHANCE – Noovo (French language) *previously announced*
After winning a competition in his youth, Marcho Lanchance was destined to become a big music star. Twenty-five years later, Marco has pursued another profession and finds his life to be monotonous and downright depressing. His unwavering positive nature demands that he take control of his destiny. As Marco reconnects with his passion for music, will he be able to overcome the obstacles life throws in his path? (Comediaah)

MARK MCKINNEY NEEDS A HOBBY – CTV
MARK MCKINNEY NEEDS A HOBBY, produced by Sphere Media, follows actor and writer Mark McKinney (SUPERSTORE, THE KIDS IN THE HALL) as he embarks on an epic quest to answer perhaps the most pressing question of our age – who are we when we’re not working? Mark travels throughout North America to meet the world’s most audacious hobbyists, and the communities of like-minded obsessives who nurture them, all to find that one, true, perfect hobby he can claim as his own. (Sphere Media)

MY DEAD MOM – Crave *previously announced*
In the seven-episode short-form comedy series, MY DEAD MOM, Emmy had a list of things she wanted to do after her mother died, like hike the Appalachian Trail, but three years later, her grief is finally catching up with her. As she questions her lipstick, and life, choices, her dead mother, Fern, pops into her life to voice her opinions and tell her red really isn’t her colour. Even death hasn’t stopped Fern from being fabulous. Emmy is trying to live her best life, but how do you let go of something that is so present? With sharp wit and aching tenderness, MY DEAD MOM explores the complicated nature of grief through mothers and daughters, and death. From creator Wendy Litner, the series stars Megan Follows and Lauren Collins. (LoCo Motion Pictures)

MY PET ATE WHAT? – Bell Media Specialty Channel
Pets will devour anything. But once down the hatch, unplanned “dinner” quickly becomes a danger, and that’s when the call goes out to Dr. Eugene Gorodetsky, AKA Dr. G, a master of non-surgical “seek and recover”. From tongs to thongs, from carpet to keys, this one-of-a-kid vet and his son, Ben, travel far and wide to pull thousands of unbelievable items out of every type of pet imaginable in this all new series from the producers of PETS & PICKERS. (Tyson Media)

OD TENTATIONS AU SOLEIL – Crave (French language) *previously announced*
OD TENTATIONS AU SOLEIL is the ultimate version of the seduction game known as OCCUPATION DOUBLE. Guys and girls with strong personalities flirt and seduce to find their ideal partner. Each episode, the bachelors test their compatibility with participants of the opposite sex through sensual challenges, passionate escapades, and spicy activities. At the end of the adventure, the couple who succeeds in convincing the other contestants of their compatibility – walks away with a cash prize. Filmed entirely in Mexico, this 8-episode series promises twists and turns, hot moments… and good old-fashioned drama! (Productions J)

THE OFFICE MOVERS – Crave *previously announced*
Starring Jae and Trey Richards, THE OFFICE MOVERS is a six-episode, half-hour comedy that follows the grim world of two underachieving, second generation immigrant brothers in the Toronto moving industry. Reluctantly following in his father’s footsteps, Everett Saunders (Jae) is the owner of Shazam Moving, an office-moving company that’s still coughing up blood after the pandemic. Working alongside his brother, Eric (Trey), and a group of employees who would not get hired anywhere else, Everett and his team are hustling hard to secure a big enough contract to get bought out by Northstar Logistics, an industry giant buying up every active moving company in the region. Up against enemy moving companies, the Saunders brothers face themselves, family, and the unforgiving nature of the Toronto office moving game to make a last ditch attempt to turn the company around. (Counterfeit Pictures)

QUEEN OF THE CASTLE – Bell Media Specialty Channel
QUEEN OF THE CASTLE takes viewers on a journey into the world of high-stakes luxury renovation as Canadian socialites Ann Kaplan Mulholland and her husband Stephen transform a thousand-year-old English castle into an extravagant retreat. With $25 million on the line, they have the daunting task of navigating construction, staffing, local skepticism, and demanding guests as old tradition meets modern chaos. (Blink49 Studios)

QUEL TALENT! – Noovo (French language) *previously announced*
QUEL TALENT! Is the only talent contest that imposes no age limits, talent restrictions, or cultural boundaries. Artists with a variety of acts, from the grandiose to the absurd, can win the hearts of a nation and of the judges, all of whom have an impressive track record. (Sphère Média)

THE REBUILD: INSIDE THE MONTREAL CANADIENS – Crave
The Montréal Canadiens played their 2023-24 season with the sole objective of re-establishing the team as an NHL powerhouse. The docu-series takes viewers up close with players, coaches, executives, and diehard Habs fans, and tells the behind-the-scenes story of a great sports organization undergoing profound change. (Fair Play)

LE RETOUR D’ANNA BRODEUR – Crave (French language, available with English subtitles) *previously announced*
After a ten-year voluntary exile in Paris, Anna Brodeur returns to Québec under exceptional circumstances. Her return causes a tidal wave of emotions among her loved ones. Neither her mother Monique, who had almost come to forget about her single daughter, nor her best friend Patrick, director of a public relations agency, nor her ex-Antoine, knew where Anna was hiding. After all those years of silence, Anna discovers that reconnecting with those around her a bit twisted and rebuilding her life isn’t as simple as she hoped. (Sphère Média)

REVIVAL – Bell Media Specialty Channel
On one miraculous day in a rural forested town, the recently deceased suddenly rise from their graves. But this is no zombie story as the “revived” appear and act just like they once were. And when local Officer and single mother Dana Cypress is unexpectedly thrown into the centre of a brutal murder mystery of her own, she is left to make sense of the chaos amidst a town gripped by fear and confusion where everyone, alive or undead, is a suspect. (Blue Ice Pictures/Hemmings House)

ROCKY MOUNTAIN WRECKERS – Specialty *previously announced*
When winter slams into the highways of the American Rockies, heavy recovery specialists from four companies race into action, working to clear wrecks and open roads. Whether it’s a raging fire or toxic spill, crews roll up ready to battle the wreckage. They’ve got the equipment and the skills.  But with more than a million people depending on the route that crosses these three states every day, the one thing they don’t have, is time. (Great Pacific Media)

SHIPWRECK KINGS (working title) – Bell Media Specialty Channel
The new docuseries SHIPWRECK KINGS (working title) follows Captain Jeff MacKinnon, a third-generation salvager, and his highly specialized team of divers, as they explore the countless shipwrecks along the “Death Coast” of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The government shut down salvaging more than 10 years ago – labeling Jeff a “pirate” and threatening his family’s legacy. After a hard battle, Captain Jeff and his salvage company have won back the exclusive right to once again traverse these dangerous waters and attempt to recover the long-lost artifacts and treasure below. (Forté Entertainment)

SLAYCATION – Crave *previously announced*
A brand-new format, developed by Bell Media, World of Wonder, and Blue Ant Studios, from the Drag Race universe, SLAYCATION is a six-part unscripted series from RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE producers World of Wonder, and Blue Ant Studios, featuring six, fabulous, larger-than-life queens from across the international DRAG RACE franchise, as they vacation together at a Canadian winter retreat. With fun activities, frivolity, and a hint of drama, their fish-out-of-water escapades culminate in a drag-tastic performance for the local community. Featuring BOA, Jada Shada Hudson, Kandy Muse, Kerri Colby, Lawrence Chaney, and Luxx Noir London. (Blue Ant Studios, World of Wonder)

SO LONG, MARIANNE – Crave *previously announced* 
A Crave and NRK original series, SO LONG, MARIANNE tells the legendary love story between Canadian singer and poet, Leonard Cohen, and an extraordinary Norwegian woman, Marianne Ihlen. It’s an intimate tale of two young people falling in love during a period of their life when they are trying to figure out who they are, and their place in the world, while one is becoming one of the most famous singers of all time. Starring Alex Wolff, Thea Sofie Loch Naess, Anna Torv, Noah Taylor, Peter Stormare, and Macha Grenon. (Redpoint Productions, Tanweer Productions, Connect3)

THE TEXAS CHEERLEADER MURDER PLOT – Bell Media Specialty Channel *previously announced*

THE TEXAS CHEERLEADER MURDER PLOT reveals the truth behind Wanda Holloway’s arrest in Texas in 1991 for hiring a hitman to kill her daughter’s cheerleading rival. (Cream Productions)

SUPER TEAM CANADA – Crave *previously announced*
From Will Arnett and Canadian comedy writers Robert Cohen and Joel H. Cohen, and Atomic Cartoons, Crave’s first-ever adult animated series, SUPER TEAM CANADA focuses on the exploits of six, little-known Canadian superheroes, trying to save the world from evil giant robots, an unemployed octopus, and needy hardware store clerks. The stakes are high for these stereotypically underdog Canadian super-unknowns, who are called in as Earth’s last resort when all the other superheroes have been destroyed. Starring Cobie Smulders, Kevin McDonald, Charles Demers, Brian Drummond, Ceara Morgana, and Veena Sood, with Will Arnett. Jay Baruchel and Bryan Adams, who wrote and performs the theme song, guest star. (Thunderbird Entertainment’s Atomic Cartoons, Electric Avenue)

TRUE CSI (working title) – Bell Media Specialty Channel
In a murder investigation, every item detectives come in contact with has the potential to lead them to the killer. Physical evidence allows investigators to reconstruct a crime, identify motive, or make or break an alibi, and these items are far more valuable than testimony from suspects and witnesses. TRUE CSI (working title) is a thrilling new true crime series that uses a groundbreaking visual style to tell the story of a murder investigation through the clues that caught the killer. (Cineflix Productions)

New Documentaries and Specials:

ANY OTHER WAY: THE JACKIE SHANE STORY – Crave *previously announced*
This documentary tells the tale of the extraordinary life and mysterious disappearance of pioneering soul singer and Black Transgender trailblazer, Jackie Shane. Her story is brought vibrantly to life through intimate recorded conversations with Jackie, and follows her family’s journey to discover her legacy, and the voices of those who were inspired by her tenacity to be herself. (Banger Media)

THE ART OF DANCE – Crave *previously announced*
In a world desperate for hope, THE ART OF DANCE ignites inspiration and dares us to come alive by tracing the evolutionary healing power of movement, music, culture, and community. Innovative and immersive, this cinematic documentary experience awakens our souls, through the beauty and courage of some of the world’s most celebrated dancers on a journey of connection. (Hip Hop Films)

AUDIOPHILIA – ADVENTURES IN THE WORLD OF HI-FI – Crave *previously announced*
From director Ron Mann, AUDIOPHILIA – ADVENTURES IN THE WORLD OF HI-FI is the story about the love of listening to music on the world’s best stereo equipment. The film profiles the inventors, designers, and major-league audiophiles, engaged in the never-ending quest to find audio nirvana. The film is a deep dive into the subculture of sonic obsessives around the world who seek out esoteric electronics that are often visually stunning, and turn their homes into audio sanctuaries. (Sphinx Productions)

BAM BAM: THE SISTER NANCY STORY – Crave *previously announced*
BAM BAM: THE SISTER NANCY STORY chronicles the meteoric rise of the reggae anthem “Bam Bam” and its status as the most sampled reggae vocal ever. Sister Nancy’s journey is marked by the discovery of a deception regarding her royalties, yet she remains undeterred in the face of adversity. Despite industry challenges, she continues to tour, spreading joy through her music to packed audiences. Interviews with industry figures like Janelle Monáe, Young Guru, and Pete Rock offer insight into Sister Nancy’s lasting impact on reggae and hip hop. This fun and entertaining documentary celebrates Sister Nancy’s resilience and unwavering passion for performance, proving that good music transcends obstacles and endures. (Oya Media Group)

BEAUTY KINGS – Crave *previously announced*
Bodybuilding, spray-on abs and gender politics: welcome to the world of BEAUTY KINGS, a documentary exploring the transitioning nature of masculinity through the lives of men from different countries as they compete in a leading international male beauty pageant. Directed by Garry Tutte. Supervising Producer Sarah Fodey, Consulting Producers Evan Wexler and Sarah Sahaigan. Featuring Frankie Cena. (Morro Creative)

THE BONES – Crave *previously announced*
THE BONES traverses the globe alongside paleontologists on a quest to unearth dinosaur fossils that may hold the key to save humanity from extinction. It’s a race against time before the bones disappear into the hands of fossil dealers, who stand to make millions by selling them on the open market. A cinematic adventure that reaches from the Mongolian Gobi Desert to the floor of a Paris auction house, THE BONES exposes the clash between science, post-colonial reckoning, and hard-headed capitalism. (Intuitive Pictures Inc.)

DARCY & JER: NO REFUNDS – Crave
After 50,000 seats sold across North America, Darcy & Jer are filming their hit show, No Refunds! This married, queer couple have created a duo stand up show like no other. Celebrating and hilariously skewering themselves, relationships, parenting, aging, and of course tackling mental health – Darcy and Jer have brilliantly taken their viral videos with over a billion views and turned their act into a 90-minute joy ride for fans. (Busy Donkey Ltd, Counterfeit Pictures Production)

ÊTRE UN HILTON – Crave (French language, available with English subtitles) *previously announced*
In the Hilton family, boxing is handed down from father to son. Father Hilton has an iron grip on his sons, Alex, Dave, and Mathew. Marie-Claude Savard contacts Alex, who hasn’t been interviewed in 20 years. She discovers the father’s influence and, with Alex, traces the passage of time; how did these boxing stars fall from grace? (Production Déferlentes)

GAI(E), TU NE SERAS PONT – Crave (French language) *previously announced*
Through the shocking stories of victims who have had to rebuild their lives after undergoing one or more conversion therapies, the documentary exposes the outlawed and archaic methods used to suppress difference. In certain religious communities or even within certain families, practices such as prayer, fasting, exorcism sessions, humiliation, and more are still used in an attempt to “cure” homosexuality or trans-identity. (Attraction)

LES GARS FAUT QU’ON SE PARLE ! – Crave (French language)
LES GARS FAUT QU’ON SE PARLE ! explores mental health issues affecting men and challenges societal taboos. Hosted by Jean-Nicolas Verreault, the documentary aims to understand men’s needs and why they hesitate to seek help. Through interviews with colleagues, individuals from diverse backgrounds, and experts, the film seeks solutions to address men’s emotional well-being. (Trinome et filles)

MODERN WHORE – Crave *previously announced*
From director Nicole Bazuin, MODERN WHORE is a hybrid documentary that reimagines popular depictions of sex work through the lived experiences of writer, performer, and sex worker, Andrea Werhun. Based on her memoir Modern Whore, Andrea grapples with social stigma and reclaims her narrative in a series of funny, heartbreaking, and surprising stories. Directed by Nicole Bazuin and Produced by Lauren Grant, Nicole Bazuin and Andrea Werhun. (Clique Pictures, Virgin Twins)

POSTNATURAL – Crave *previously announced*
POSTNATURAL is a provocative feature documentary that travels to the freaky frontiers of a new synthetic biological age. Has “nature” ceased to exist? Mingling pop culture with science and humour with horror, this visually inventive film follows Richard Pell, founder of the world’s first Center for PostNatural History, and meets the visionary scientists, artists, and storytellers who are engineering new life forms and imagining a science-fictional future that few of us can fathom. Directed by Brett Story and co-directed Ben Travers, POSTNATURAL is a timely epic that explores our nostalgia for a world that was, while also finding beauty, possibility, and risk in the weird world that could be. Produced by Stuart Henderson. (90th Parallel Productions)

RESIDENT ORCA – Crave *previously announced*
RESIDENT ORCA tells the unfolding story of a captive whale’s fight for survival and freedom. After decades of failed attempts to bring her home, an unlikely partnership between Indigenous matriarchs, a billionaire philanthropist, killer whale experts, and the aquarium’s new owner take on the impossible task of freeing Lolita, captured 53 years ago as a baby, only to spend the rest of her life performing in the smallest killer whale tank in North America. When Lolita falls ill under troubling circumstances, her advocates are faced with a painful question: is it too late to save her? (Everyday Films)

RUSSELL PETERS – Crave *previously announced*
The RUSSELL PETERS documentary tells the story of his humble and adversarial beginnings in Brampton Ontario, to his current standing today as one of the world’s top international comedians. Directed by Thyrone Tommy (Learn to Swim), and executive producers are Randy Lennox and Kevin Barton. (Loft Entertainment)

SAINTE-JUSTINE : SALLE D’OPERATION – Crave (French language) *previously announced*
This docu-series follows healthcare staff as they accompany young patients on their journey to surgery. SAINTE-JUSTINE EN SALLE D’OP is above all a human and moving series. Although it takes place in a cutting-edge medical environment, it is the human stories that are at its heart. The anxiety of parents on the eve of a major operation, the tension of the emergency room team, and the pre- and post-operative elements will give viewers a sense of what it’s like to live through these experiences. Welcome to the operating room! (Attraction)

SINGHS IN THE RING – Crave *previously announced*
SINGHS IN THE RING is a feature documentary based on the wildly colourful, outrageously animated, pile-driving phenomenon of the Singh wrestling dynasty. Follow the clock goes back to the infectiously fun 1970s era wrestling and the emergence of a Punjabi immigrant now known as the legendary Gama Singh of Stampede Wrestling, and witness the continuation of that professional wrestling lineage in current day with Gama’s son, Raj. (Fennessey Films & Score G Productions)

SMOKE & GIFTS: IT’S ALL GOING TO BREAK – Crave *previously announced*
Filmmaker Stephen Chung pulls back the curtain on the Toronto indie music scene through his relationship with his friends in the trailblazing band, Broken Social Scene. This unconventional POV documentary features Chung’s never-before-seen archival footage capturing a creatively rich era in Toronto and paying tribute to the power of indie music, friendship, and the artists who started out in Toronto bars before rocketing to global fame. (Fathom Film Group)

WILFRED BUCK – Crave *previously announced*
WILFRED BUCK is a hybrid feature documentary focusing on a Cree elder and Indigenous star knowledge keeper. Weaving together his harrowing past and his present life with sky stories, this cinematic film explores colonization’s attempts to extinguish Indigenous ways of knowing, the values of interrelationship that shape Indigenous science, and how this worldview paves a healthier path forward for us and our planet. Directed by Lisa Jackson. Producers are Lisa Jackson, Alicia Smith, and Lauren Grant. Executive producers are David Christensen, Nichola

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Featured, Reality, Lifestyle & Documentary

Corus Entertainment’s specialty networks welcome back 16 returning Canadian original series, plus 18 new titles for 2024/25

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From a media release:

Today, Corus Entertainment announces its complete slate of Canadian original content to premiere across its specialty networks in 2024/25. The 34 new and returning titles include new seasons from HGTV Canada‘s most trusted home and design experts, new challenges from Food Network Canada‘s best competition series, new points of view from The HISTORY Channel®‘s thoughtful docu-series and documentaries, and a fresh take on romantic comedy made-for-TV movies on W Network, plus new and beloved animated characters from Nelvana on Treehouse, YTV and Cartoon Network, appealing to families and kids of all ages. In total, Corus will deliver more than 295 episodes, movies, and specials, including 18 brand-new titles.

“Corus maintains its leadership position within the Canadian original lifestyle and factual space with our schedule of new and returning titles. With our proven formats, top-tier stars, and premium storytelling, we deliver what Canadian audiences want to see across our expansive specialty portfolio,” said Rachel Nelson, Vice President of Original Programming and Head of Corus Studios. “As our industry landscape evolves it’s more important than ever to share Canadian stories as told by Canadian voices, and we believe that this lineup delivers just that.”

Additional Corus content announcements were made this morning, including updates on new pickups for Corus’ specialty networks. For the latest updates, visit www.corusent.com.

HGTV CANADA

Canada’s #1 Lifestyle network*, HGTV Canada continues to be the home of real estate, renovation, and interior design. With four new Canadian Original series and eight returning, the network offers endless inspiration and education to audiences this upcoming broadcast year.

The Baeumlers are back as Bryan and Sarah start production on their new docu-follow series, Building Baeumler. In it, viewers will catch up with the couple as they navigate work and life following the successful launch of their Bahamas resort. Bryan and Sarah are determined to expand their evolving business and find their next big thing together. From surprising projects on the island to personal projects close to home – the Baeumlers offer an intimate look at their lives as they grow their individual and family ventures.

HGTV Canada introduces audiences to DIY designer, Kristen Coutts, in the new series Beer Budget Reno (working title). Filming this summer and casting now, Kristen delivers life-changing renos for people on a budget using money-saving hacks that transform outdated spaces into something fresh and functional. Also, in production for HGTV Canada, Rentovation helps long-term leasers upgrade and personalize their space. The new series shares innovative solutions and clever designs that provide forever-home vibes and stunning transformations. This fall, luxury designer Ali Budd delivers high-end reveals and big-budget renovations in House of Ali, Season 1.

The network’s most anticipated original series return this fall with back-to-back premieres. Fan-favourites, Sebastian Clovis and Randy Spracklin bring heart, community, and tough renovations in Season 2 of Gut Job and Season 3 of Rock Solid Builds. The ensemble cast of Hoarder House Flippers, Season 2, take on new challenges with Mactar, Issa, and Khadim Mbaye in Montreal, Heather and Nathan Porteous in Winnipeg, and a new set of flippers, Deidre Ritsche and Stephanie Bradt, from Windsor. Brother-sister duo, Billy Pearson and Carolyn Wilbrink, bring modern design to dated properties in Season 3 of Farmhouse Facelift, while the Scott Brothers return with new episodes of Don’t Hate Your House, Season 1. Canadian icon Pamela Anderson is back this winter and building on her terms in Season 2 of Pamela’s Garden of Eden. While this spring, Scott McGillivray and Debra Salmoni return for Season 6 of Scott’s Vacation House Rules, and Scott teams up with Bryan Baeumler again in Season 2 of the Top 20 specialty entertainment program, Renovation Resort.**

Launching today, HGTV Canada Hotline is here to help. The weekly digital series, available through HGTV Canada’s social media platforms and hgtv.ca, offers how-to advice from Canada’s home authority. The brand’s creators – experts in a diverse range of fields – answer viewer on topics big and small – from DIY projects, to organizational hacks, to financial real estate advice.

FOOD NETWORK CANADA

Canada’s #2 Lifestyle network*, Food Network Canada, features big stars, big eats, and big challenges in 2024/2025. The Top 10 specialty entertainment program***, Top Chef Canada returns for an epic Season 11 this fall with host Eden Grinshpan, judges Chef Mark McEwan, Mijune Pak, David Zilber, and Janet Zuccarini, and 10 all-new chef competitors from across Canada. Hollywood star, Pamela Anderson is joined in the kitchen by renowned chefs as she explores her passion for plant-based food and sets the table for intimate dinner parties with her friends and family in Pamela’s Cooking with Love, premiering next year. The Big Bake and Great Chocolate Showdown both return with new episodes this upcoming broadcast year, and Noah Cappe is back in Season 10 of Carnival Eats.

THE HISTORY CHANNEL

The HISTORY® Channel, a Top 10 specialty network* and destination for behind-the-scenes storytelling, premieres five new Canadian Original titles in 2024/2025. Brand-new series Yukon Rescue follows emergency response teams in Canada’s rugged north as they navigate extreme weather conditions, structure fires, avalanches, flash floods, spreading wildfires, and more to keep their communities safe.

The four-part documentary, Sounds Black, traces the origins and impact of Black Music in Canada. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Cazhhmere, with contributions from luminaries such as Kardinal Offishall, Jully Black, Fefe Dobson, Maestro Fresh Wes, Deborah Cox, Keisha Chante and more, the series explores Black Canadian music from its tangled diasporic roots to its international dominance. Kru Williams and Adam Palmer‘s adrenaline-fueled hunt for gold and Taylor Starr and father Don Froese‘s search for truth continue in Season 2 of Deadman’s Curse premiering this fall. Then, Mike, Connor, and Avery are back at the wheel in Season 5 of Rust Valley Restorers. The network delves into the paranormal with Season 1 of Repossessed, featuring a team dedicated to finding and authenticating haunted objects and intervening when the spirit won’t let go.

W NETWORK

Another Top 10 specialty network*, W Network is known for its popular offering of romantic made-for-TV movies, and starting to rollout early 2025 is the next chapter in The Love Club movie franchise, The Love Club Moms. The four-part original movie franchise, produced by Nikki Ray Media Agency, follows the romantic lives of four strong, successful women – Ashley Newbrough (Love in Glacier National: A National Park Romance), Rebecca Dalton (Nurses), Genelle Williams (Family Law), and Nazneen Contractor (Children Ruin Everything) – as they juggle motherhood with trying to find their happily ever after. The Love Club Moms also stars Ryan Bruce (Let Him Go), Corey Sevier (Take Me Back For Christmas), Mark Taylor (Beyond Black Beauty), and Joseph Cannata (A Perfect Match).

KIDS

CARTOON NETWORK

Nelvana’s award-winning short film Jelly will be making its official primetime debut this September on Cartoon Network. An inspirational modern fairy tale, Jelly explores the delicate balance between pursuing one’s passion of expressive art versus treading the financially murky waters of a soul-sucking factory job.

TREEHOUSE

Treehouse, the #1 overall Kids Specialty network with K2-11 and K2-5****, this Fall welcomes the much talked about and eagerly-awaited new series, Barney’s World, co-produced by Mattel Television and Nelvana. The CG-animated series is set in the local playground, where Barney is joined by dinos Billy and Baby Bop and their three kid best friends. Throughout silly and imaginative adventures together, Barney helps kids explore big preschool emotions and shows them how to love themselves, others, and their community.

Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go! continues to delight kids with Season 28 pulling into Treehouse this year, plus a brand new one-hour holiday special, Thomas & Friends: “The Christmas Letter Express” All Engines Go!, where Percy rushes to deliver a letter so the child’s Christmas Wish comes true.

Coming later this year to Treehouse is Millie Magnificent from Nelvana, inspired by the best-selling books by Ashley Spires and Nelvana’s award-winning short film The Most Magnificent Thing. Millie Magnificent follows avid creator, problem-solver, and innovator Millie Sparks. With a load of determination and spark of imagination, Millie and her ‘creato-crew’ – best friends Ben and Maya and Millie’s adorable dog Wallace – strive to find the most magnificent solutions to their neighborhood’s challenges.

Also this fall, new episodes of Builder Brother’s Dream Factory GEAR UP and GET IT DONE on Treehouse. See more of twin brothers, Drew and Jonathan, a pair of regular kids who use their extraordinary imagination, creativity, grit and heart to help friends and solve problems by dreaming big – really big – sometimes too big! Vida The Vet™, produced by Spin Master Entertainment, also returns with new episodes, following ten-year-old Vida, an animal doctor who nurtures the charming and silly woodland creatures who live outside her home.

YTV

Zokie of Planet Ruby premieres this Fall on YTV, the #1 Commercial Kids Specialty network with K6-11.***** Ruby Studebaker and her alien BFF Zokie Sparkleby film their adventures around the town of Tres Leches. Along with their con-man friend Earl the squirrel, Ruby teaches Zokie about Earth, while Zokie tries to control his unpredictable alien powers.

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Featured, Industry News, Reality, Lifestyle & Documentary

Big Time Decent Productions in production on four new unscripted originals, launches new scripted division Bread & Better Films

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From a media release:

Vancouver-based production company Big Time Decent Productions has announced that it is in production on four new docuseries and is expanding its unscripted slate to include a feature documentary, an IMAX nature documentary, and a new automotive vertical for YouTube including flagship channels Rust Bros and Wildman Garage. The company has also shared details on the launch of its new scripted division, Bread & Better Films, and a new partnership with Verve Talent and Literary Agency out of Los Angeles.

Big Time Decent Productions is currently in production on new docuseries with Corus Entertainment, as well as Bell Media. Underdog Inc., which has been greenlit by AMI, is a new docuseries following the life of Dale Kristensen, a little person raising a child while running a trucking business in small town BC. The company has also had a fourth docuseries recently greenlit by a Canadian broadcaster with a formal announcement coming soon.

“After a lot of hard work from our talented team, we are thrilled to be announcing some major company milestones. Since our launch in 2020, we have had the incredible opportunity to share fascinating stories of remarkable characters with global audiences through our unscripted content. Off the heels of this success, we look forward to continuing to expand our unscripted offering while ramping up our scripted development slate with Bread & Better Films,” said Matthew Shewchuk, Founder and Head of Production, Big Time Decent Productions. “Despite the overall state of the industry, we’ve experienced steady growth in our first four years and will continue to build on that foundation to position ourselves as a key Canadian content producer.”  

Bread & Better Films, Big Time Decent Production’s new scripted division will focus on developing and producing feature films and scripted series. The new arm launched in partnership with Big Time Decent’s René Brar and Jeff Kinnon. The company is also bringing in industry veteran Robert Vroom as Producer. Vroom has produced a wide range of feature films including Blood Quantum (2019), You Can Live Forever (2022), and several TV movies. Bread & Better Films also welcomes writer, producer, and actor Juliana Wimbles to serve as Development Producer for the new label. Bringing 20 years of industry experience, Wimbles appeared as a regular on ABC’s The Good Doctor (2019) and is a familiar talent with the Hallmark Channel, having written six feature films for the broadcaster.

“We’re incredibly excited to announce the launch of Bread & Better Films and to have Rob and Juliana joining us. Our team has deep roots in the scripted world, and we look forward to expanding that side of the business and building a robust scripted slate together,” said René Brar, Head of Development, Bread & Better Films.

After building a successful foundation in unscripted television, Big Time Decent Productions is diversifying their unscripted offering, producing a feature documentary that will take part in a festival run in the fall, as well as their first IMAX nature documentary targeting a 2025 distribution. Following the enormous success of their highly acclaimed show Rust Valley Restorers (above), the production company is finding innovative ways of bringing automotive programming to a loyal fanbase with a collection of talent-driven YouTube channels, including Rust Bros and Wildman Garage, among others. Together these channels have accumulated over 100 million views across platforms in the first half of 2024.

The company has also signed with Verve Talent and Literary Agency, one of the fastest-growing and most-reputable talent agencies in Los Angeles.

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Canada's Ultimate Challenge, Featured

Team Wildcard wins Canada’s Ultimate Challenge; casting open for Season 3

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From a media release:

 After six weeks of intense competition filled with twists and turns, Team Wildcard shocked the country, upsetting Team Red in the final obstacle course to win season two of CANADA’s ULTIMATE CHALLENGE last night on CBC. Standing on the shores of Vancouver Island, host Brandon Gonez declared Brandon Rodwell (Woodstock, ON), Shasily Matowe (Edmonton, AB) and Whitney Beers (Saint John, NB) season two champions and winners of a VIP trip to cheer on Team Canada at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Season two of CANADA’S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE, including the finale episodes, are available to stream now on CBC Gem.

As the two-part finale began, teams Blue, Red and Orange travelled to Revelstoke, BC, in anticipation of the biggest elimination showdown of the season. There, they were faced with a terrifying gondola challenge atop the largest vertical drop in North America where Team Red secured their spot in the finale. Then, in the most surprising twist of the season it was revealed that eliminated Players Brandon Rodwell, Shasily Matowe and Whitney Beers were returning as the newly formed Team Wildcard and, after facing off in a kayak challenge, Team Orange was sent packing. Player tensions and rivalries came full circle as the remaining teams headed to Vancouver Island for the final three obstacles. Known for its gnarly trails and legendary precipitation, Mount Washington set the backdrop for a mountain bike relay that ultimately led to the elimination of the Team Blue, and pitted season favourites Team Red and underdogs Team Wildcard against each other in the final challenge of the season, “Canada’s Ultimate Log Jam.” In an intense obstacle course, Team Wildcard pulled off the ultimate upset and defeated Team Red for the win. They’ll be joining Season One winners Vinny Rojas (Dorval, QC), Alana Warnick (Winnipeg, MB), Bradley Farquhar (Halifax, NS), and Devon MD Jones (Toronto, ON) at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 this summer. 

The season finale comes fresh off the heels of the announcement that the series has been renewed for a third season. Casting for season three of CANADA’S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE is open now. Season one of CANADA’S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE was nominated for four Canadian Screen Awards including Best Reality/Competition Series.

Hosted by Brandon Gonez, CANADA’S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE is an original reality competition format that transforms Canada into an epic obstacle course. Each episode takes place at an awe-inspiring location showcasing the beauty and grandeur of Canada. Players compete in a series of challenges that test every aspect of their physical and mental strength, pushing them to their limits. Season two featured 20 fierce competitors divided into teams of five who battled it out in  St. John’s, NL, Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine, QC, Ottawa, ON, Hamilton, ON, Canmore, AB, Revelstoke, BC and Vancouver Island. 

Commissioned by CBC, season two of CANADA’S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE is executive produced by Erin Brock, John Brunton, Mark Lysakowski, and Jeff Thrasher for Insight Productions (A Boat Rocker Company) and Phil Gurin for The Gurin Company. 

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Featured, Industry News

Bomanizer ventures into television with new Crave original series Made For TV with Boman Martinez-Reid, streaming July 12

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From a media release:

Can celebrated Canadian comedian, actor, and recent Variety Power of Young Hollywood Impact Report honouree Boman Martinez-Reid successfully make the jump from social media star to television icon? In the all-new, six-episode Crave Original series MADE FOR TV WITH BOMAN MARTINEZ-REID, Boman embarks on a hilarious and slightly awkward quest for television fame as he explores various TV genres. With the guidance of real-life renowned celebrity advisors, he puts his skills to the test, hoping to discover the one that will propel him to television fame. Created by two-time Canadian Comedy award-winning comedian Natalie Metcalfe and produced by Alibi Entertainment in association with Bell Media, all six episodes of the series drop on Crave on Friday, July 12.

Featuring a lineup of esteemed celebrity guests representing a wide spectrum of television genres, Boman’s advisors include: reality star and influencer Francesca Farago (TOO HOT TO HANDLE); Chef Lynn Crawford and Audrey MacKinnon (JUNIOR CHEF SHOWDOWN); news anchors Nathan Downer and Sandie Rinaldo; Toronto Raptors broadcaster Jack Armstrong, former Canadian NBA star Jamaal Magloire, Canadian basketball coach Tamara Tatham; renowned drag queens Priyanka and Lemon; and THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF POTOMAC star Ashley Darby.

Known for parodying “Slice of Life” Reality TV, Boman assumes this genre will be a walk in the park, but is thrown for a loop when his advisor, Real Housewives of Potomac star Ashley Darby expects more than Boman is willing to give.

MADE FOR TV WITH BOMAN MARTINEZ-REID is produced by Alibi Entertainment, in association with Bell Media’s Crave. Bell Media distributes the series internationally. For Alibi Entertainment, James Hyslop is President and Executive Producer, Natalie Metcalfe is Creator, Executive Producer and Showrunner, Jo Virgo is Executive Producer and Boman Martinez-Reid is Executive Producer.

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