TORONTO – A tribute to the best in Canadian film and television airs tonight in a new format that Canadian Screen Awards organizers hope will appeal to more viewers.
The pre-taped, hour-long special hosted by Samantha Bee is set to feature highlights from seven awards galas that took place over the past week.
It replaces the pre-pandemic tradition of a live two-hour variety show that handed out hardware to marquee film and television winners in a single night.
This year, the big winners are already known: A gala on Thursday crowned Clement Virgo’s drama “Brother” the top film, giving it a record 12 awards including best picture, best director and best adapted screenplay.
A gala on Friday named CBC’s “The Porter” best drama with 12 prizes overall and CBC’s “Sort Of” best comedy, with seven awards.
Special awards went to comedy veteran Catherine O’Hara, Hollywood A-lister Ryan Reynolds and TV-turned-movie star Simu Liu.
The Canadian Screen Awards air tonight at 8 p.m. ET (9 p.m. AT, 9:30 p.m. NT) on CBC and CBC Gem.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 16, 2023.
