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CTV News
4 hours ago
- Business
- CTV News
‘The Apprentice,' ‘Canada's Drag Race' among big winners at Canadian Screen Awards
Daniel Bekerman, producer of "The Apprentice," winner of Best Motion Picture, poses for a photo at the Canadian Screen Awards, in Toronto, Sunday, June 1, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young A film chronicling the rise of Donald Trump won best motion picture at the Canadian Screen Awards on Sunday, where its Toronto-born producer used his acceptance speech to address the U.S. president's threats to Canadian sovereignty. Daniel Bekerman is the lead producer of 'The Apprentice,' a Canada-Ireland-Denmark co-production that portrays how Trump got started in the real-estate industry and honed his persona under the mentorship of controversial fixer Roy Cohn. 'Our movie shows how the young Donald Trump amassed wealth and power by finding a dilapidated building and slapping his name on it,' said Bekerman on stage at the CBC headquarters in Toronto. 'As president, he's doing the same thing with the economy -- we'll see how that works out. But now he wants to slap his name on this country. This is a challenge, but it is a good challenge.' Bekerman went on to say he's inspired by the rise of Indigenous and queer cinema in Canada, but that he wants the country's independent film community to band together. 'When we're faced with power structures that want to silence us, we can't do it in isolation. It's time to link arms, stand our ground and tell stories with enough honesty that we can build a country that has trust at its core. So in this complex and chaotic world, we can survive and thrive together.' Sunday's show had several calls to support homegrown content amid U.S-Canada tensions, capping off a multi-day celebration of Canadian film, television and digital storytelling. Matthew Rankin's absurdist dramedy 'Universal Language' also had a strong showing, as the filmmaker took home the best director trophy. This brought the film's Screen Awards tally to six after it dominated Saturday's industry gala for cinematic arts, where it nabbed best original screenplay, casting and art direction. On the red carpet before the show, Rankin reflected on the definition of Canadian content amid political tensions with the U.S. over tariffs and sovereignty. 'We're in this political moment where we have to reckon with what Canada means, and ideally we should be thinking also about what it will mean as we go forward and what cinema can contribute to that,' the filmmaker said. 'I think of Canada as a space that should constantly be redefined. But usually, when I identify something as being Canadian, I think it feels like a President's Choice Hollywood movie,' Rankin quipped. On the TV side, Crave's drag queen competition series 'Canada's Drag Race' won best reality program, bringing its Screen Awards total to eight -- the most overall. The series took home several trophies at an industry gala earlier in the weekend, including best host for Hytes, Brad Goreski and Traci Melchor. 'Canada's Drag Race' judge Brooke Lynn Hytes thanked her fellow queens while accepting the award. 'Thank you for coming on TV, sharing your stories, and letting it all hang out literally and figuratively,' she said. 'We're all just so grateful to be here and get to celebrate queer people in queer spaces on national TV.' Citytv's 'Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent,' which led all nominees with 20, won best drama series. It wound up pocketing three awards in total, including best writing in a drama series and best sound in fiction. Comedian Lisa Gilroy opened the show with several self-deprecating jokes while also taking light jabs at celebrities and calling on Canadians to toast homegrown fare. 'We're here to celebrate an industry that's helped birth enormous global stars like Drake,' Gilroy said on stage at CBC headquarters in her opening monologue. 'And commemorate stars we've lost in the past year, like Drake.' In an opening skit, actor Will Sasso referred to Gilroy, who is from Edmonton and based in Los Angeles, as the 'Canadian Nikki Glaser only less successful,' to which she retorted, 'Exactly.' Gilroy also joked that Australian actress Cate Blanchett was in the building -- before the camera panned to a mannequin donning a dress in the audience. Blanchett later won in absentia for best lead performance in a comedy for her role in Guy Maddin's 'Rumours.' CTV's 'Children Ruin Everything' won best comedy, adding to its previous three wins, including best ensemble performance. The sitcom is created by Ottawa's Kurt Smeaton and stars Meaghan Rath and Aaron Abrams as a couple trying to carve out an identity beyond parenthood. It won four trophies overall. Andrew Phung of CBC's 'Run the Burbs' won for best lead performer in a comedy series. 'The Apprentice' won five Screen Awards in total, including best performance in a lead role for Sebastian Stan's turn as Trump, and best supporting actor for Jeremy Strong's portrayal of Cohn. Trump's team attempted to block the film's theatrical release last fall, calling it 'election interference by Hollywood elites' and threatening to file a lawsuit. Last month, Bekerman told The Canadian Press that Trump's threat to impose a 100 per cent tariff on foreign films, citing national security, felt like a veiled reference to 'The Apprentice.' Bekerman denied that his film is a national security threat but said it might instead be 'an ego security threat' for Trump. 'This is not some sort of political attack film,' Bekerman said. 'It's actually not at all what it is. It is a humanistic story about choices people make in their lives and the consequences of those choices.' By Alex Nino Gheciu This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 1, 2025. Crave, CTV News and CP24 are owned by Bell Media, which is a division of BCE.
CBC
6 hours ago
- Business
- CBC
Trump biopic The Apprentice takes home top film award at Canadian Screen Awards
Social Sharing The divisive, little-seen yet still-controversial Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice managed to grab the brass ring on Sunday, taking home the top award of best motion picture at the final night of the Canadian Screen Awards. It beat out stiff competition in that top category from filmmaker Matthew Rankin's Universal Language, which made the Academy Awards shortlist for best international feature late last year. And while The Apprentice was still the big winner of the night with two, Rankin's surreal comedy was no slouch either. Its five prior wins over the weekend and one Sunday, for directing, meant it still had the most wins of all films nominated. "I'm from Winnipeg, I'm not accustomed to winning anything," Rankin joked, before referencing his film's commentary on alienation, xenophobia and culture shock. "We all know what political moment we're living in; every day there are new Berlin walls shooting up all around us and pitting us against each other into very cruel binaries," he said. "If our film stands for anything, it stands for the fact that kindness can be a radical gesture." It wasn't the only surprise of the night: CTV's Children Ruin Everything increased its trophy count to three, as it stepped in to snatch best comedy series from Crave's Late Bloomer, which had snapped up four trophies this weekend. And while it was up for a total of 20 awards — the most of any nominated title — Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent only managed to increase its trophy count by one, to pull in a paltry total of three this year. The win was a big one, though, as the Canadian version of the expansive Law & Order franchise won best drama series. Triumphant as they were, some of the awards' biggest winners were honoured outside the big night: TV movie Wynonna Earp: Vengeance and documentary series The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal both earned seven honours earlier over the weekend. Pointed messages But Sunday's winners did at least occasionally broach big topics. Upon receiving the best feature length documentary trophy, Molly Wickham alluded to the subject of their film Yintah, which follows Witsuwit'en Nation fighting for its sovereignty in the face of planned pipeline projects. "We still face colonial occupation, and we are still fighting to live in peace as on our land," Wickham said. "The fight continues and we will never give up. Our sovereignty is tied to our collective freedom." Canada's Drag Race won best reality competition — having now done so for every year but one of its five-year broadcast — and increased its total count to eight, the most of any awarded productions this year. Drag queen and Drag Race host Brooke Lynn Hytes spoke about what she'd most like to ask U.S. President Donald Trump backstage in the press room. "What foundation do you use? Because it is the wrong shade," she said, before addressing his policies targeting transgender people. "Why are you targeting the most marginalized, smallest group of people in the country and making an example out of them when they are not doing anything to hurt anybody; they're just trying to exist?" And as The Apprentice 's producer Daniel Bekerman took to the stage, he also spoke of Trump — the subject of their film, who threatened a lawsuit to remove it from circulation. "Our movie shows how the young Donald Trump amassed wealth and power by finding a dilapidated building and slapping his name on it," he said. "Now he wants to slap his name on this country." "The most powerful person in the world tried to squish us, and they failed. They failed." But all in all, the twelve awards and jokes on offer were more or less safe, smooth sailing for a show that hasn't found itself far from disapproval or drama over the past few years. After a pre-packaged, pre-recorded change of format in 2023 that led to complaints from none other than Eugene Levy, the CSAs returned to a live format in 2024, though one that largely focused on the dire and potentially dismal future of Canadian film and television. There was a new round of complaints this year, centred around the awards show's plan to air exclusively online, eschewing the traditional TV broadcast. But after a last-minute reversal of that decision, things went ahead much the same as any prior, nondescript year. That engineered smoothness resulted in an almost pointed exclusion of reference to the many dark clouds hanging over the Canadian film industry. From proposed Hollywood tariffs, to ongoing feuds between the CRTC and streaming platforms fighting against Canadian content obligations, or the bleak performance of Canadian English-language films in comparison to their American counterparts at the box office, few of the industry's existential issues made their way into a broadcast more concerned with gentle preening. Dimmed starlight Instead, there were cautiously celebratory allusions to Canada's artistic importance, such as Manny Jacinto's Radius award for international impact, and an in-memoriam segment for Donald Sutherland presented by his son, actor Kiefer Sutherland, along with hit-and-miss jokes so typical of such ceremonies. The general tone was set by host Lisa Gilroy in her opening skit. In it, she jokingly compared herself to "comedy legend" Martin Short, versus her own status as "Instagram account-holder, Lisay Gilroy," who was like "a Canadian Nikki Glaser, only less successful." But the intermittent bits were just enough to keep the night moving along, if not write home about. And unsurprisingly, the star power for Canada's biggest night was dimmed. The two A-list winners — Sebastian Stan for The Apprentice and Cate Blanchett, who won best performance in a drama for Rumours — did not even offer video or written acceptance speeches, let alone attend. When presenting the night's last award, Hytes even managed to sneak in a self-aware joke that worked for finally breathing a bit of honesty into the proceedings. "The eyes of the world are focused on this stage," she said to doubting laughs. "And by the world, I do mean Canada." The stars who did attend did seem genuinely affected by the honour. As Allegiance 's Supinder Wratch accepted her trophy for best lead performer in a drama series, her voice quivered while remarking on her father's recent passing. And when Run the Burbs ' Andrew Phung won best lead performer in a comedy series, he could barely keep from crying during his acceptance speech. Despite it being his sixth career acting CSA, he struggled through the emotion the award brought out as he barrelled through thank-yous. "Today is our twentieth anniversary," he said as his voice broke and the camera pointed to his wife, Tamara Sharpe. "When I felt like I couldn't do anything, you made me believe that I could do everything. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, thank you so much."
Yahoo
6 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Gogglebox's Mary Killen tells husband Giles Wood off over swearing
Gogglebox star Mary Killen gave her husband Giles Wood a mouthful after she discovered that he had scrawled swear words over their calendar. The couple - who have been together for more than 50 years - are both armchair critics on Channel 4's hit TV commentary series. But in the latest episode of the show, Mary was distracted from the small screen offerings as she realised what Giles had been up to. Letting rip, she told him that if they were work colleagues she would "consider this workplace harassment". The episode of the programme which aired on Friday, 30 May was the last in the current series, and included highlights from across the season. In one scene, the couple were perched beside each other in their chairs when Mary spotted some writing on their calendar. "Giles, if you are I were colleagues in the workplace I would consider this workplace harassment," she told him. "Why? What have I done now?" he asked. "You have written swear words all over our communal calendar!" Mary exclaimed. "So what did I write Mary?" he asked, as his wife passed him the calendar to take a look at his handiwork. "You know quite well what you wrote," she replied, looking unimpressed. "OK, shall I read it out?" he asked. "No don't please!" snapped Mary. However, Giles ploughed on, reading "s**** weather, s**** government, s**** country, no point living here, s**** prime minister, s**** chancellor, relocate to Tenerife" as Mary shouted at him to stop. Read more: Gogglebox Gogglebox's Pete Sandiford left 'screaming' after toe mishap Who are Gogglebox's longest serving cast members? Gogglebox stars who are no longer with us The Apprentice fans make Gogglebox plea after Lord Sugar's TV commentary "You are not allowed to swear in this sanctuary of a room!" she insisted. Mary has previously shared that she has a "zero tolerance policy" when it comes to turning the air blue. She told The Guardian in 2018: "There's so much on telly, I don't want it in my own cottage. Giles swears occasionally because he's always having minor accidents. Our children turn on him and tell him off." Mary and Giles, who met in the 70s when Giles was studying at art school and Mary was a model, joined Gogglebox in 2015. Their first series was series five, and they have just wrapped shooting on season 25. The couple, who live in a thatched cottage in Wiltshire, have two daughters together, but they remain off-screen.
Daily Record
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Take part in all your favourite BBC quiz and reality shows with everything you need to know to apply
The Apprentice, Sort Your Life Out and Race Across the World, plus lots more, are all on the lookout for fresh faces to take part in their next series - and you can be one of them Ever dreamed of starring in a television show, testing your mettle as you've watched others do from the comfort of your living room? If you're sitting and thinking "I could do that!" Well, we have splendid news for you and the definitive guide for telly enthusiasts looking to take part in iconic programmes - complete with advice on how to throw your hat in the ring. Hit shows such as The Traitors, Gladiators, The Repair Shop, Race Across the World and many others are on the lookout for new participants to bring fresh energy to their up-coming series. Taking the plunge with just one application might see you fulfilling the ultimate dream of appearing on a much-loved television show. Production teams are always searching for individuals, couples or group contestants to feature in some of the nation's most loved programmes. We have delved into the huge list of opportunities currently available on BBC TV shows for those keen on securing a spot. There are many opportunities in exciting programmes just waiting to be filled, from The Apprentice to Dragons Den or more niche programmes seeking certain skills. Lots of BBC programmes are actively pursuing contributions from members of the public, ranging from enthusiasts in interiors, antiques and hopeful gameshow entrants ready to steal the limelight. For those considering taking the leap, here's our handy catalogue of popular BBC shows actively recruiting contestants at this moment. Gladiators Gladiators, one of UK's most popular and energetic sports entertainment game shows is back, and it's bigger than ever! Returning for a third series, interested participants who believe they have the skill and speed to take on the superhuman Gladiators can apply via this link. This opportunity is closing soon (May 30). Race Across the World BBC One's BAFTA winning hit series Race Across the World is back and searching for intrepid duos ready to take a step into the unknown and embark on an epic race across land and sea. Imagine the adventure of a lifetime all aired on TV, if you fancy your chances, take a look and apply here. Michael McIntyre's The Wheel This fan-favourite show gives contestants the chance to win a cash prize by taking on The Wheel. With the help of celebrity experts who will assist in answering the questions, the ultimate goal is to bag the jackpot. Interested participants can apply here. Dragon's Den For all the budding entrepreneurs out there, if your business is seeking investment or a potential partnership with a multi-millionaire business mogul, then this is your golden opportunity. Dragons' Den offers entrepreneurs the chance to present their revolutionary business ideas to an esteemed panel of some of the UK's most successful businesspeople: The Dragons. You can apply to enter the Den here. Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr BBC are searching for the next interior design superstar. Alan Carr and interiors guru Michelle Ogundehin are on the hunt for creative, passionate, and innovative designers - if that's you, apply here. The Repair Shop The BBC programme where experts repair and restore treasured items that have been damaged or fallen into disrepair is looking for contestants. If you're a fan of the series and would like to have the chance of appearing on the show, you can apply here. Debate Night BBC Scotland's Debate Night is looking for people from all walks of life to join the audience and hold the people in power to account. If you'd like to put your questions and views to politicians you can apply for that possibility here. Lost and Found in the Lakes Helen Skelton is set to front new BBC show Lost and Found in the Lakes, as she leads a team of expert divers and detectorists to search for precious items lost by members of the public. You can apply for this opportunity here. The Apprentice The Apprentice is already on the hunt for candidates for the next series. Lord Sugar has already invested over £3,000,000 in business start-ups via the show. You need confidence and great ideas to impress for this amazing opportunity, take you chances and apply here - you could gain an investment of up to £250,000. Sort Your Life Out Fed up of a cluttered home? Well this opportunity could change that. Shared households or family homes can apply for the next show, which could see experts like Stacey Solomon step into your abode and get your place sorted. Apply here for this lifechanging possibility. There are many more BBC shows looking for participants or contestants, including Mastermind and Rip Off Britain. The One Show is also looking for stories and radio show, Gardeners Questions would also like to here your queries. Homes Under the Hammer and Bargain Hunt have also opened for new applications - you can find out about all the opportunities on BBC TV shows and how to take part here.
Toronto Star
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Toronto Star
‘The Apprentice,' ‘Canada's Drag Race' among big winners at Canadian Screen Awards
A film chronicling the rise of Donald Trump won best motion picture at the Canadian Screen Awards on Sunday, where its Toronto-born producer used his acceptance speech to address the U.S. president's threats to Canadian sovereignty. Daniel Bekerman is the lead producer of 'The Apprentice,' a Canada-Ireland-Denmark co-production that portrays how Trump got started in the real-estate industry and honed his persona under the mentorship of controversial fixer Roy Cohn.
