Tag Archives: Bell Media

Authenticity, and laughs, return for Season 2 of The Trades

I grew up in a blue-collar town, where working in a factory was integral to the city’s survival. Heck, I even worked a summer in a factory, trucking boxes of shoes, polish, and other accessories around a maze of boxes and loading and unloading trucks. It didn’t take me long to get into the feel of the place—the razzing, the nicknames, the back-slapping and the hard work.

Needless to say, I immediately connected with The Trades when I first tuned in to Season 1 on Crave, recognizing how the staff at Imperial Valley refinery interacted as legitimate, something creator Ryan J. Lindsay strives for.

“In the current landscape of content, authenticity is paramount,” he says. “People are so distractible, the mission with this show was clear. We knew we wanted to target a blue-collar or blue-collar adjacent audience and make them laugh. In order to do so, we needed relatable characters and relatable experiences. They need to watch this show and say, ‘I know a guy like that,’ ‘I work with a guy like that,’ or ‘I know a girl who has done that.'”

Director Warren P. Sonoda (left) and Ryan J. Lindsay on set

Now back for Season 2, with two episodes dropping every Friday on the Canadian streaming service, Lindsay’s creation centres around pipefitter Todd Stool (Robb Wells, Trailer Park Boys) as he navigates his blue-collar life at a refinery with help from his family and friends. The first two episodes of Season 2 are already up and running on Crave, and saw Todd and his buddy, Backwoods (Daniel Petronijevic, Letterkenny, 19-2), swapping their Imperial Valley refinery gigs for working the pipeline. Meanwhile, work at Imperial Valley was in disarray thanks to new foreman Danny (Pat Roach, Trailer Park Boys), necessitating Todd and Backwoods’ return to get the refinery and its ragtag staff (which includes a powerhouse cast in Anastasia Phillips, Jennifer Spence, Enrico Colantoni, Tom Green, Raoul Bhaneja, Jesse Camacho, Brandon Oakes and Susan Kent) back in shape.

The first of this week’s new instalments breaks new ground for The Trades with “Night Shift,” a bottle episode (the story is contained in one location, filming at night in Hamilton, Ont.) and the first to be directed by Lindsay.

“Directing is a different kind of hot seat from showrunning, writing or producing,” he says. “You’re ultimately the one who is watching the clock. In Season 1, I had the privilege of watching director Warren P. Sonoda for three months. It was the best director training ever.

“This episode is something I’m really proud of,” he continues. “It’s different from the rest of the season, has a horror theme, and is something we have never done before.”

The Trades drops two episodes every Friday on Crave.

Images courtesy of Kontent House Inc.

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Bell Media and Tom Green partner to develop original Canadian content

From a media release:

Bell Media announced today a co-development agreement with Tom Green Productions Canada Inc., founded by beloved Canadian comedian, actor, and filmmaker Tom Green, to create original content for Crave and CTV. The pact expands Green’s long-standing relationship with Bell Media, which includes THE TOM GREEN SHOW and TOM GREEN’S HOUSE TONIGHT, and most recently, a co-starring role in the Crave Original comedy THE TRADES, which was the #1 Canadian series on Crave in 2024*, and returns for a second season, March 14.

The agreement covers both scripted and unscripted projects, reflecting Bell Media’s commitment to making great original content and collaborating with some of the industry’s biggest names. Specific project details will be announced at a later date.  Rory Rosegarten, Tom’s manager, will serve as Executive Producer on all projects.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be working with Bell Media to develop some of my ideas,” said Green. “It’s great to be back living in Canada and working with one of the world’s premiere media companies.”

“Over the course of his legendary career, Tom has been a creative and comic visionary who has consistently seen around the corner to be ahead of his time,” said Stewart Johnston, Senior Vice President, Content & Sales, Bell Media. “We look forward to embarking on this new journey together as we develop dynamic projects and expand Bell Media’s mandate of making great original content that resonates at home, and abroad”.

With the new agreement, Bell Media continues to strengthen its position as a leader in creating premium original content, fostering a pipeline of innovative projects for Canadian audiences and beyond. Past commitments include a development deal with Point Grey Pictures, Lionsgate, and most recently, PAGEBOY Productions.

About Tom Green Productions Canada Inc.

Tom Green Productions Canada Inc., based in Ontario, is a full-service film and television production company founded by comedian, actor, director, and broadcaster Tom Green. With three new projects having recently launched, including THIS IS THE TOM GREEN DOCUMENTARY, TOM GREEN COUNTRY, and I GOT A MULE!, the company is rapidly establishing itself as a creative hub in the entertainment industry.

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Crave’s hit original comedy The Trades heads back to work, March 14

From a media release:

Following a trailer reveal during TSN and CTV’s broadcast of SUPER BOWL LIX, Crave confirms that its smash-hit comedy series THE TRADES returns for an eight-episode second season, on Friday, March 14. After the first two episodes drop, THE TRADES follows a weekly release schedule with two new episodes streaming on subsequent Fridays.

THE TRADES was a massive success for Crave when it originally premiered in 2024, ranking as the #1 Canadian show in 2024, and boasting the biggest first-week streaming numbers for any scripted Canadian series in Crave history.*

Produced by Trailer Park Boys Inc. and Kontent House Inc., THE TRADES continues to follow the blue-collar workers of Conch Industries refinery, including veteran pipefitter Todd (Robb Wells, TRAILER PARK BOYS), his sister Audrey (Anastasia Phillips, MOONSHINE), and site manager Chelsea (Jennifer Spence, YOU HEAR ME), as they deal with new company leadership and the shadiness that comes with it.

In Season 2, the workers face a new challenge as they encounter the company’s eccentric new owner (Jennifer Irwin, SUPERSTORE) and her unhinged policies. As chaos unfolds, they must band together to protect their livelihood and preserve their community.

Cast returning for Season 2 include Daniel Petronijevic (LETTERKENNY) as Backwoods; Enrico Colantoni (VERONICA MARS) as Jimi; Brandon Oakes (DIGGSTOWN) as Taser; Jesse Camacho (LOCKE & KEY) as Homer; Jason Daley (TRAILER PARK BOYS) as Dewey; Raoul Bhaneja (BLINDSPOT) as Medhi; Susan Kent (THIS HOUR HAS 22 MINUTES) as Steph; Patrick McKenna (THE RED GREEN SHOW) as Rodd Stool; Aaron Poole (MOST DANGEROUS GAME) as Billy, and Tom Green (THE TOM GREEN SHOW) as Randy Bennett.

New cast joining this season, in addition to Irwin, are Dave Lawrence (Fubar) as the new burn-out permittee, Roach, Tara Spencer-Nairn (CORNER GAS) as Dewey’s sister, Daina, and Patrick Roach (TRAILER PARK BOYS) as new General Foreman, Danny McRules.

Filmed in Nova Scotia and Ontario, THE TRADES is co-produced by Trailer Park Boys Inc. and Kontent House Inc. in association with Bell Media’s Crave. Gary Howsam is executive producer; Ryan J. Lindsay is creator, writer, and executive producer, also directing one episode; Robb Wells is producer and writer, and Jonathan A. Walker is producer. Warren P. Sonoda is executive producer, directing seven episodes; Shelley Eriksen is executive producer; Andrew McMichael is co-executive producer and writer; Neha Kohli and Koumbie are associate producers and writers. John Morayniss and Virginia Rankin are executive producers for Blink49 Productions. The series is distributed by Rollercoaster Entertainment and Blink49 Distribution is the exclusive U.S. sales agent. The series is produced with the assistance of Canada Media Fund, Nova Scotia Film & Television Production Incentive Fund, Nova Scotia Content Creator Fund, the Canadian Film or Video Production Tax Credit and Ontario Creates

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Bell Media and Pageboy Productions ink co-development deal for new series

From a media release:

Bell Media and PAGEBOY Productions, founded by acclaimed actor, producer, and advocate Elliot Page, announced today a new partnership to develop bold, original scripted series for Crave and CTV. Under this agreement, their collaboration will explore content opportunities, with a joint dedication to spotlighting untold stories.

“Canada holds a special place in our company’s story, and is an integral part of PAGEBOY’s identity,” said Matt Jordan Smith, Head of Development and Production. “Through our partnership with Bell Media, we look forward to deepening our roots here, while showcasing multifaceted stories that resonate globally. This collaboration marks an important step in our mission to create groundbreaking, authentic, and compelling content worldwide,” continued Smith. He is joined by Director of Development, Tuck Dowrey.

“Partnering with Bell Media feels like a natural evolution for PAGEBOY Productions,” added founder Elliot Page. “We’re excited to create captivating content that amplifies voices that deserve to be heard. This collaboration will allow us to tell powerful, genuine stories that challenge perspectives, and inspire audiences both at home and internationally.”

“PAGEBOY Productions brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to content creation,” said Sean Cohan, President of Bell Media. “This pact signifies a shared commitment to fostering Canadian creativity, telling stories from different perspectives, and delivering impactful storytelling to  audiences.”

With the new agreement, Bell Media continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in creating premium original content, fostering a pipeline of innovative projects for Canadian audiences and beyond. Past commitments include a development deal with Point Grey Pictures, and Lionsgate, as well as a licensing and distribution pact with FOX Entertainment Global.

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The Banff World Media Festival names Bell Media’s Sean Cohan as board chair

From a media release:

The Banff World Media Festival (BANFF) is thrilled to announce that Sean Cohan, President of Bell Media, has been appointed Chair of BANFF’s Board of Directors. Cohan steps into the role following the tenure of Kevin Beggs, Lionsgate Television Group Chair & Chief Creative Officer, who served as Chair of the Board for three years. Beggs will continue to serve on the Board, ensuring his valuable experience remains an asset to the organization.

“I am honoured to assume the Board Chair position at BANFF. With a reputation as a robust event at the forefront of the conversations that matter most in our global industry, the Festival is primed for growth. I look forward to collaborating with the team and continuing the work of the incomparable Kevin Beggs to expand BANFF’s global impact while showcasing the many opportunities Canadian companies, organizations and creatives bring to our industry,” said Cohan.

“We’re delighted to welcome Sean as the new Chair to guide BANFF into its next chapter. As the media landscape continues to evolve, Sean’s forward-thinking vision and global perspective will be invaluable in shaping the future of the festival and fostering innovation across the industry,” added BANFF’s Executive Director, Jenn Kuzmyk. “We’re deeply grateful for Kevin’s incredible contribution over the last few years as Chair. His dedication has elevated the festival to new heights, strengthening its position as a premiere global media event. We’re so pleased to have Kevin remain on board, continuing to lend his expertise.”

“It’s been a true privilege to serve as Chair of the BANFF Foundation Board for the last three years,” said Beggs. “I have seen the Festival grow to be a place where integral conversations about the future of the industry happen, and where some of the world’s most innovative creatives and executives gather. It’s like no other event. I have no doubt that with the supremely talented Sean Cohan now at the helm, the Festival is in excellent hands.”

Appointed President of Bell Media, Canada’s leading media and entertainment company, in 2023, Cohan is responsible for Bell Media’s globally unique portfolio of premium video, audio, out-of-home advertising and digital media. These include Canada’s #1 broadcast network (CTV), its leading sports properties (TSN & RDS), #1 national and local news (CTV News), the largest-Canadian-owned video streaming service (Crave), industry-leading out-of-home advertising player (Astral) and audio platforms (iHeart Radio).

Cohan has spent decades in media and consumer businesses, including a 15-year tenure at A+E Networks ultimately in the role of President, International and Digital Media. At A+E, Cohan’s teams were credited with driving global content, digital, and commercial transformation, and rapid growth.
Most recently, Cohan was Chief Growth Officer & President at Nielsen, a global measurement and data analytics giant. Cohan managed the strategy, corporate development, partnerships, and international efforts and teams and had a leadership role in its successful 2022 take-private transaction.

A purpose-driven leader, Cohan has a Bachelor of Arts, Economics from Harvard University, an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and holds several Board positions, including 8 years on the Banff World Media Festival Board of Directors. Cohan has twice been named to Savoy Magazine’s Influential Black Executives in Corporate America list and its Most Influential Corporate Directors list.

Located in Banff, Alberta, Canada, BANFF is a premium marketplace and conference, an intimate space where unparalleled access, creative inspiration and expert insight combine to launch fresh content and new business strategies. With more than 45 years of history, the festival has grown into a must-attend annual event where media moguls, producers, creatives and industry stakeholders along with broadcasters and digital media companies tackle issues and trends, forge relationships and nurture partnerships in one of the world’s most stunning landscapes.

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