Tag Archives: Featured

Featured, Small Achievable Goals

Production begins on Season 2 of CBC’s Small Achievable Goals

Leave a comment

From a media release:

CBC and Sphere Media today announced that production is underway on the second season of menopause comedy SMALL ACHIEVABLE GOALS (8×30). Created by and starring Meredith MacNeill and Jennifer Whalen and produced by Sphere Media, the new season will continue to follow Julie (Whalen) and Kris (MacNeill) as they redefine menopause and friendship — finding strength and humour in a bond they didn’t initially want, but now depend on, to survive the gauntlet of symptoms and life changes challenging them. Filmed in Hamilton and Toronto, season two will premiere on CBC and CBC Gem in winter 2026. Audiences can watch season one of SMALL ACHIEVABLE GOALS on the free CBC Gem streaming service.

“It’s been incredible to see such an engaged and positive response to Small Achievable Goals,” said Trish Williams, Executive Director, Scripted Content, CBC. “Jennifer, Meredith and the team at Sphere have created something uniquely hilarious and equally moving. There is a lot to explore in the menopause experience, and season two isn’t afraid to go there.”

“We’re very excited to explore the further adventures of odd couple Julie and Kris, as they experience the roller coaster ride that is menopause,” shared Meredith MacNeill and Jennifer Whalen, creators, stars and executive producers of the series.

“We’re thrilled to be underway on production of season two, and to be working again with Small Achievable Goals’ amazing cast, crew, and partners at CBC,” said Elise Cousineau, VP Content, English Scripted, for Sphere Media. “We’re excited for audiences to reconnect with Kris, Julie, and the entire cast of characters.” 

In addition to MacNeill and Whalen, cast returning for season two of SMALL ACHIEVABLE GOALS are Alexander Nunez (Moonshine), Paul Braunstein (Hudson & Rex), Jon Dore (The Jon Dore Television Show), Tricia Black (Pretty Hard Cases), Georgie Murphy (Safehaven), Leslie Adlam (Slumberland), Kevin Whalen (Baroness von Sketch Show), Tamara Podemski (Murderbot), Kiori Mirza Waldman and Evan Mok. Billy MacLellan (Nobody) and Jackie Richardson (Pretty Hard Cases) will guest star this season.

A CBC Original Series, SMALL ACHIEVABLE GOALS is produced by Sphere Media. The series is created by Jennifer Whalen and Meredith MacNeill (Baroness von Sketch Show), who also serve as Executive Producers alongside Sphere Media’s Jennifer Kawaja, Bruno Dubé and Elise Cousineau. The series is produced with the participation of the Bell Fund and Canada Media Fund (CMF).

Facebooktwitterredditlinkedinmail
Featured, Trailblazing Talks

Dini Petty’s Trailblazing Talks debuts October 13 on The News Forum

Leave a comment

From a media release:

Canada’s most fearless interviewer is back. At age 80, Dini Petty steps back in front of the cameras once again for Trailblazing Talks with Dini Petty, with a one-hour television event airing Monday, October 13 at 9:00 PM ET on The News Forum network and on thenewsforum.ca. With warmth, humour, and fearless curiosity, Petty invites audiences into conversations that span generations and challenges expectations. Ahead of its premiere, Trailblazing Talks has been greenlit to go to series. Broadcast details to follow.

“At this point in my life, I am drawn to deeper conversations about resilience, courage, and the true cost of leadership,” said Dini Petty. “Trailblazing Talks is about honouring those who dared to lead and reminding us that it is never too late to step forward with purpose”

This premiere brings together two remarkable guests for a deeply personal and inspiring hour of television. Tonya Williams shares her journey breaking barriers as a Black actress, from early roles in Toronto to becoming a household name for two decades on The Young and the Restless. She also reflects on founding the Reelworld Film Festival & Screen Institute, which have grown under her leadership to create meaningful change in Canada’s screen industry.

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Senator Marnie McBean opens up about her legendary partnership with the late Kathleen Heddle, her service in the Senate of Canada, and why advocacy for the 2SLGBTQ+ community remains central to her legacy. She even gives Dini a lesson in proper rowing technique. Both guests revisit moments from their interviews on The Dini Petty Show in the 1990s, bringing their stories full circle in a celebration of resilience, legacy, and trailblazing impact.

“Dini has been a huge source of inspiration to me over the years—not only as a pioneering broadcaster and a pilot, but as a woman unafraid to speak the truth,”  said Kate Campbell, Creator, Showrunner and Executive Producer. “To collaborate with her on Trailblazing Talks is a full-circle moment, and I feel honoured to help carry forward her legacy and bring her voice and presence back to audiences in a new way.”

Petty is bringing the same sharp mind, wit, and courage that shaped her career, but this time, the focus is on sparking a bigger conversation about the future of leadership, aging, and the courage it takes to stay in the arena.

Created by Kate Campbell, who also serves as Showrunner and Executive Producer, Trailblazing Talks is helmed alongside award-winning Executive Producer Ken MacDonald, former Vice-President and General Manager of Discovery Channel Canada. Marina Cordoni of Marina Cordoni Entertainment (MCE) and Dini Petty also Executive Produce. Former broadcaster and commissioner at CRTC Martha Wilson joins as Consulting Producer.

Trailblazing Talks is not just a television special; it’s a bold invitation to rethink what’s possible. 

Channel numbers are different for each TV provider, so the fastest way to find us is by checking your on-screen guide, or clicking HERE.

Featured Channels:
Bell Satellite: Channel 506
Rogers: Channel 107
Shaw Direct:Channel  253
Telus: Channel 842

About The News Forum
The News Forum is a Canadian national television network that values integrity, balance, and the inclusion of multiple voices. Privately owned by Canadian shareholders, the network delivers programming that aims to empower viewers with diverse perspectives and support a robust Canadian democracy. Learn more at www.thenewsforum.ca.

Facebooktwitterredditlinkedinmail
Featured

Bryan Adams headlines Citytv’s star-studded holiday programming slate

Leave a comment

From a media release:

This holiday season, Citytv and Citytv+ are delivering a gift-wrapped lineup of star-powered specials, merry movies, heartwarming surprises, and much more, beginning November 23.

Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams headlines new Citytv original Bryan Adams and Friends: A Great Big Holiday Jam, a one-hour special featuring festive hits and appearances from Alessia Cara, Alan Doyle, Barenaked Ladies, Lights, The Sheepdogs, and more – all set in Bryan’s intimate in-the-round Warehouse studio. With the warmth, spontaneity, and front-row energy of a live jam session, audiences are invited to share in the music, memories, and holiday magic. Broadcast details to be announced in the coming months.

“The holidays have always been a special time for me and I’m thrilled to be joined by some of Canada’s most talented artists. The Great Big Holiday Jam is going to be joyful and unforgettable – the perfect soundtrack to the season,” said Bryan Adams. 

On November 23, Citytv delivers the magic of the season in a live broadcast of the Original Santa Claus Parade from downtown Toronto. The live broadcast will be hosted by Breakfast Television’s Dina Pugliese, Tim Bolen, Rick Campanelli, and Devo Brown who will bring all the action from the parade route featuring a stunning array of decorated floats, lively bands, marchers, and more. More details on the Original Santa Claus Parade to be announced in the coming weeks. 

NEW HOLIDAY-THEMED SERIES AND SPECIALS INCLUDE:

  • Citytv Very Merry Movies on Citytv and Citytv+
  • Bake Master Battle with Dina Pugliese, April Julian, and Dwight Smith on Food Network and Citytv+
  • Come Dine With Me Canada on Food Network and Citytv+
  • Then, ring in the New Year with the biggest party on television, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, airing December 31 on Citytv and Citytv+

APPLY NOW TO BE PART OF THE PRICE IS RIGHT TONIGHT

Come On Down, Canada! This December, Canadians can take part in The Price is Right Tonight, an all-new one-hour primetime edition of the iconic smash-hit global format from Fremantle, The Price is Right, hosted by legendary comedian and television personality Howie Mandel. Every seat in the audience gives attendees a chance to be a contestant on the show! Canadians can apply now at www.thepriceisrighttonight.ca. The Price is Right Tonight is slated to air on Citytv and Citytv+, a subsidiary of Rogers Sports & Media, in Spring 2026.

“I’m thrilled to invite fans from all walks of life to come and be part of The Price is Right Tonight. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the excitement and joy of one of television’s most successful and longest-running gameshows in TV history. If you love fun, games, and winning incredible prizes, now’s your chance!” said Howie Mandel, Host, The Price is Right Tonight.

Facebooktwitterredditlinkedinmail
Featured, The Trades

Crave original comedy series The Trades in production on Season 3

Leave a comment

From a media release:

Trailer Park Boys Inc. and Kontent House Inc. announced today that production is underway in Nova Scotia on season three of their Crave Original comedy series, THE TRADES. Created by Ryan J. Lindsay, the eight-part, 30-minute, comedy centres around Todd “Goldenarm” Stool (Robb Wells), a pipefitter from a working-class background. The series will film in Nova Scotia and Hamilton, Ontario.

“The response to THE TRADES has been fantastic and we’re excited to be back for a third season with our incredible cast of colourful characters, talented crew and partners at Crave,” said Robb Wells, who stars as Todd Stool and is a series producer and writer.

In season three, Todd Stool walks the thin line between friend and boss. Meanwhile, his sister Audrey (Anastasia Phillips) is secretly hooking up with Todd’s best friend Backwoods (Daniel Petronijevic) and beloved site manager Chelsea (Jennifer Spence) must face an uncomfortable truth when Jenn Conch (Jennifer Irwin) returns to Imperial Valley and is determined to fit in.

Additional returning cast include Raoul Bhaneja (Blindspot) as Medhi, Jesse Camacho (Fubar) as Homer, Brandon Oakes (Revival) as Taser, Jason Daley (Trailer Park Boys) as Dewey, Susan Kent (Pretty Hard Cases) as Steph, Patrick McKenna (The Red Green Show) as Rod, Tara Spencer-Nairn (Corner Gas) as Daina, Dave Lawrence (Fubar) as Roach, and Aaron Poole (Most Dangerous Game) as Billy.

Audiences can watch seasons one and two of THE TRADES on Crave, while Season 3 is set to debut in 2026.

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; Robb Wells is producer and writer, and Jonathan A. Walker is producer. Jennifer Irwin, Warren P. Sonoda and Shelley Eriksen are executive producers; Neha Kohli is co-executive producer and writer. Irwin and Susan Kent are also writers this season. Lindsay also directs one episode and Sonoda will direct seven.

Facebooktwitterredditlinkedinmail
Amazing Race Canada, Featured

The race continues as CTV orders Season 12 of The Amazing Race Canada

Leave a comment

From a media release:

As Canadians gear up for the Season 11 finale of THE AMAZING RACE CANADA, airing Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 9 p.m. on CTV, CTV.ca, and the CTV app, and streaming next day on Crave, the network announced today the early renewal of Canada’s favourite summertime adventure for Season 12. Hosted by Olympic gold medallist Jon Montgomery, THE AMAZING RACE CANADA is set to welcome a new group of racers to the starting line when it returns in 2026, with casting details to be announced. 

“THE AMAZING RACE CANADA continues to be a powerhouse for CTV,” said Justin Stockman, Vice-President, Content Development & Programming, Bell Media. “Its unique ability to showcase the beauty of our country while also celebrating the resilience and diversity of Canadians makes it a standout series that resonates with viewers. Along with our incredible partners at Insight Productions, we’re ready to deliver another unforgettable journey across our extraordinary country.” 

Customized and wholly integrated brand partnership opportunities for THE AMAZING RACE CANADA, including video, digital, social, radio, and OOH platforms with first in class data opportunities, are currently available for the upcoming season.  

On the Season 11 finale of THE AMAZING RACE CANADA (Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 9 p.m. in all markets on CTV, CTV.ca and the CTV app, and streaming next day on Crave), titled “Double Roadblock,” the final four teams head to the picturesque town of Collingwood, Ont. for a heart pounding showdown, where the ultimate test of agility, skill, and teamwork awaits. In a world-wide franchise-first Double Roadblock, racers must split up and push their limits like never before. With only their wits and instincts to guide them, this final leg of the race tests both physical endurance and nerves of steel, as speed and coordination determine which team crosses the finish line first.

The winning team of THE AMAZING RACE CANADA (Season 11) receives the grand prize of two 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS, a trip around the world, a $250,000 cash prize courtesy of FUZE Iced Tea, and the coveted title of THE AMAZING RACE CANADA champions.  The final four teams competing on the Season 11 finale of THE AMAZING RACE CANADA are: 

  • Jesse & Jonathon – Friends from Sherwood Park, Alta. and Woodlawn, Ont.
  • Grace & Joe – Siblings from Prince George, B.C. 
  • Skylene & Blair (a.k.a. Nipîy & Magoo) – Married couple from Edmonton
  • EB & Blake – Brothers from Toronto 

With final data of the full complete season yet to be reported, Season 11 of THE AMAZING RACE CANADA is the #1 summer series overall (P2+ and A25-54), with a current season average of 1.3 million viewers. The series is also set to close out its eleventh year as Canada’s most-watched summer series among A25-54. To date, THE AMAZING RACE CANADA has amassed a total of 46 Canadian Screen Award nominations and 28 wins.  

To coincide with the Season 11 finale, all previous seasons of THE AMAZING RACE CANADA are available for streaming on Crave, beginning Tuesday, Sept. 16. Seasons 1-7 join those currently available, allowing viewers to relive the excitement of the race from the beginning. An encore presentation of THE AMAZING RACECANADA Season 11 finale airs Saturday, Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. ET/PT on CTV and 7 p.m. ET/PT on CTV2, as well as Sunday, Sept. 21 at 12 p.m. ET/PT on CTV, CTV.ca, and the CTV app.   

THE AMAZING RACE CANADA is produced by Insight Productions Ltd. (A Blue Ant Studios Company) in association with CTV. For Insight, John Brunton is Executive Producer and Mark Lysakowski is Executive Producer and Showrunner.

Facebooktwitterredditlinkedinmail