Today, Prime Video announced the start of production on comedy series The Sticky in Quebec. Margo Martindale, Chris Diamantopoulos, and Guillaume Cyr star in the English-language series inspired by the true story dubbed the “Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist,” which made headlines around the world in 2011 when 70% of the global maple syrup supply—about $18 million (CAD) worth—was stolen. The series will film in and around Montreal with Canadian directors Michael Dowse (Goon, Stuber) and Joyce Wong (Wexford Plaza, Sort of). The Sticky will be available exclusively on Prime Video in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 2024.

The Sticky revolves around Ruth Landry (Margo Martindale), a tough, supremely competent maple syrup farmer who’s had it with being hemmed in by the polite, bureaucratic conventions native to her country’s identity. Especially now that that very bureaucracy is threatening to take away everything she loves: Her farm, her comatose husband, and her right to freedom. With the help of Remy Bouchard (Guillaume Cyr), a mild-mannered security guard, and Mike Byrne (Chris Diamantopoulos), a low-level mobster, Ruth changes her fate—and transforms the future of her community—with the theft of millions of dollars’ worth of maple syrup.

The Sticky is produced by Blumhouse Television, Megamix, Comet Pictures, and Sphere Media. Creators and executive producers are Brian Donovan and Ed Herro; Jonathan Levine and Gillian Bohrer for Megamix; Jamie Lee Curtis for Comet Pictures; Josée Vallée and Bruno Dubé for Sphere Media, Inc.; Jason Blum, Chris McCumber, Jeremy Gold, and Chris Dickie for Blumhouse Television; and Michael Dowse. Lauren Grant serves as co-executive producer. Russell Goldman is an associate producer for Comet Pictures.

Cyr is represented by Maxime & Alexis Vanasse at MVA. Dowse is represented in the U.S. by UTA, Fourth Wall Management, and Paul Hastings, and Great North Artists Management in Toronto. Wong is represented by CAA, Aaron Brown at Avalon Management, and Great North Artists Management in Toronto.

The Sticky is part of Prime Video’s continued investment in Canada, adding to the slate of Canadian Amazon Original series that includes LOL: Qui Rira Le Dernier?, Pendant Ce Temps en Cuisine, Nuit Blanche, Three Pines, The Kids in the Hall, The Lake, LOL: Last One Laughing Canada, All or Nothing: Toronto Maple Leafs, and The Unsolved Murder of Beverly Lynn Smith. Since 2015, Amazon Studios has commissioned over 25 Amazon Original series and films in Canada, including The Man in the High Castle and Upload in British Columbia; The Boys, Reacher, and The Expanse in Ontario; Tales from the Loop in Manitoba; as well as parts of Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan and The Voyeurs in Quebec.

The Sticky will join the thousands of TV shows and movies from Hollywood and around the world in the Prime Video catalog, including hits Amazon Originals like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, Shotgun Wedding, and more.

Prime members will be able to watch all episodes of The Sticky, anywhere and anytime on the Prime Video app for smart TVs, mobile devices, Fire TV, Fire TV stick, Fire tablets, Apple TV, and stream online. In the Prime Video app, Prime members can download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost. Prime Video is available in Canada at no extra cost to a Prime membership for just CAD$ 99/year or CAD$ 9.99/month (plus applicable taxes), new customers can find out more at www.primevideo.com and subscribe to a free 30-day trial.

As Pluto TV in Canada continues to grow its ever-expanding library of programming and FAST channels, the service is pleased to announce its latest content partnership with The Weather Network (Pelmorex Corp.). Canadians can now stream The Weather Network’s new FAST Channel on Pluto TV, tapping into the first weather-related programming service to be provided on FAST in Canada.

“The first week of spring is perfect timing to welcome The Weather Network to Pluto TV Canada,” said Katrina Kowalski, Vice President of Content, Pluto TV and Paramount+ in Canada. “When we introduced Canadians to Pluto TV just a few months ago, we began rolling out our multi-vertical content strategy focusing on providing Canadians with relevant news in addition to entertaining programming. From Global News to Cheddar News, The Weather Network joins our esteemed lineup of News & Opinion feeds, expanding on our ongoing commitment to delivering audiences informative local programming.”

The Weather Network FAST Channel on Pluto TV delivers Canadian audiences real-time weather coverage for major Canadian cities, as well as new weather stories, long-form programs, and in-depth features exclusive to the FAST channel. Long-form programming includes popular series such as Storm Hunters, Power to the People, Captured, and more. The channel also features a new morning show developed exclusively for the streaming audience, hosted by Matt Di Nicolantonio and Michael Vann, delivering the biggest weather stories from across Canada and around the globe.

“We are thrilled to bring our FAST channel to the Pluto TV audience, providing them with The Weather Network’s signature immersive weather storytelling, along with exclusive new shows and in-depth features,” said Hashim Mikael, Platform and Product Manager, Global TV Apps & FAST Channels for The Weather Network. “The Weather Network’s expansion into FAST is an example of our continuous commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our audiences. As it continues to grow, the FAST channel will see that same innovative and audience-centric approach that made The Weather Network Canada’s No. 1 weather source on TV, mobile and digital platforms.”

The Weather Network FAST Channel on Pluto TV follows a series of new channel and content partnerships for the streaming service in Canada including new FAST channels OUTtv Proud and Shades of Black, and a partnership with Blue Ant Media that saw the addition of new channels HauntTV, Crimetime, HistoryTime, and Homeful.

Pluto TV is available for free, with no registration required. Canadian users can watch Pluto TV via web at www.pluto.tv, via the Pluto TV app for Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Android TV, Chromecast, Samsung and LG devices, and via mobile apps on the App Store and Google Play.

Filmed right here in Toronto, Paramount+ Spy-Thriller Series RABBIT HOLE got a welcome home with a premiere at Scotiabank Theatre, plus a bash for its leading man, our v. own Kiefer Sutherland!

Synopsis:

In RABBIT HOLE, John Weir (Kiefer Sutherland), a master of deception in the world of corporate espionage, is framed for murder by powerful forces who have the ability to influence and control populations.

In addition to Sutherland, RABBIT HOLE features a dynamic cast including Charles Dance (“Game of Thrones”) as Dr. Ben Wilson, Meta Golding (“Empire”) as Hailey Winton, Enid Graham (“Mare of Easttown”) as Josephine “Jo” Madi, Rob Yang (“Succession”) as Edward Homm, Walt Klink (“The English”) as The Intern and Jason Butler Harner (“Ozark”) as Valence.

Sutherland serves as executive producer for RABBIT HOLE, alongside writer-directors John Requa and Glenn Ficarra (“This Is Us,” “WeCrashed”), Charlie Gogolak (“The Sinner,” “WeCrashed”), Suzan Bymel (“Designated Survivor”) and Hunt Baldwin (“Longmire,” “The Closer”).

Produced by CBS Studios, the eight-episode season will premiere Sunday, March 26 with two episodes. Following the premiere, new episodes will drop weekly on Sundays, exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. and Canada, and on the following day, Monday, March 27, 2023 in the U.K., Australia, Latin America, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and France. The premiere date in South Korea will be announced at a later date.

We had the pleasure of previewing the first couple episodes of the Series already and it is phenomenal and gripping. Sutherland back doing what he does best. Gritty, intense Thrillers. The Series is mix of genres – a little Rom-Com, Action, Thriller, with tons of suspense. We were on the edge of our seat the whole time and how cool to see Toronto landmarks featured so prominently? The celebration for the Series was held at STORYS, with delightful cocktails and nibbles, commemorating the Series. Did we mention awesome activations too inspired by the Series? We were on surveillance the whole time just like Keifer!

Some highlights from the celebration:

(Photo/video credit: Paramount+/Mr. Will Wong)

On April 1, 2023 the 3D Doubt Your Eyes Exhibition will open its doors in Toronto, becoming the city’s newest interactive exhibition for tourists and locals alike. This wildly popular event has toured in the United States, Europe and the Middle East, captivating millions of visitors.

Toronto will be home to the first 3D Doubt Your Eyes Exhibition in Canada, located in downtown Toronto, at Artscape Sandbox (301 Adelaide St. W). The fully interactive exhibition features 3D hand-paintings and illusion scenes that come together to give visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in a fantasy world. At 3D Doubt Your Eyes, each scene brings different stories: visitors “communicate” with the artwork and even become a part of the artwork itself!

Whether it be fighting with dinosaurs, walking on the moon, fixing Mona Lisa’s make-up, becoming a giant, or turning into a Ninja Warrior, 3D Doubt Your Eyes allows visitors to be both the director and main character of their fantasy voyage. Perfect for all ages, visitors can easily be part of this exciting experience by stepping into the scenes and striking poses for their cameras. 3D Doubt Your Eyes is the perfect Instagram opportunity; the photos from this experience look so real, visitors will feel as though they are living in a magic world.

Created by World Touring Exhibitions and brought to Toronto, for its first debut in Canada by Stagetime Productions, 3D Doubt Your Eyes’ 30 interactive points provide an artistic, educational, and entertaining experience unlike any other in Toronto. It is an event that is sure to be enjoyed by the entire family!

“We are thrilled to bring the Canadian debut of ‘Doubt Your Eyes 3D Exhibition’ to Toronto, an interactive experience that provides a unique and unparalleled artistic, educational, and entertaining experience for the whole family, it’s an experience that you won’t want to miss!” said Patrik Wushinski, owner of Stagetime Productions.

3D Surprise Your Eyes is an innovative concept which includes hand-painted scenes by professional 3D artists, alongside illusion scenes, to entertain and amaze guests.

The 3D Doubt Your Eyes Exhibition runs from April 1 until May 19 and will be open 7 days a week, Monday to Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last entry at 5 p.m.) Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (last entry at 6 p.m.) Tickets for Adults (ages 16+) will be priced at CAD 29 + HST and Children (ages 3-15), Students and Seniors (65+ – valid ID required and student ID required) at CAD 24 + HST. A Family Bundle (2 adults + 2 children) at CAD 25.50 + HST and a Group Bundle (min. 8 people) at CAD 27 + HST. Free entry for children under 3 and wheelchair accessible. Tickets are available here.

TIFF is delighted to present a special screening of Searchlight Pictures’ Rye Lane, Raine Allen-Miller’s feature directorial debut, on March 29 at TIFF Bell Lightbox. This advanced screening, presented in partnership with Disney and its platform, is part of a sneak-peek event celebrating the upcoming TIFF Next Wave Film Festival, taking place April 14–16, ahead of the film’s exclusive platform release in Canada on March 31, 2023.

Hailed by critics, earning a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, Rye Lane follows two twenty-somethings, both reeling from bad break-ups, who connect over the course of an eventful day in South London – helping each other deal with their nightmare exes, and potentially restoring their faith in romance. The film, which premiered in January at the 2023 Sundance Festival, features breakout performances from David Jonsson and Vivian Oparah, and was listed as one of “18 Films Directed By Women That We Can’t Wait To See In 2023” by British Vogue. Driven by Allen-Miller’s bold, playful direction, Rye Lane is permeated by a vibrant, energetic style that celebrates Black joy, friendship, and love. This hilarious and heartwarming debut is above all an ode to South London and what it means to find connection in the people, places, and communities that give us strength.

“Those that are youngish and in the know, know that Next Wave Film Festival is TIFF’s hidden gem, a unique showcase of films selected by some of Toronto’s most impressive, young cinephiles – come to connect and be inspired.” said Anita Lee, Chief Programming Officer, TIFF. “The Next Wave celebration kicks off on March 29, opening with an exhibition by multimedia artist, kaya joan, followed by the exclusive screening of Raine Allen-Miller’s Sundance hit Rye Lane, the perfect rom-com antidote for the times.”

The March 29th celebration is curated by the TIFF Next Wave Committee, who also take the lead in programming the 12th edition of the TIFF Next Wave Film Festival (April 14–16). Hailing from across the GTA — from Scarborough, to York, to Mississauga — and ranging in age from 15 to 18, the Committee is made up of 12 teen film enthusiasts, many of whom are young creators and filmmakers. The festival is a one-of-a-kind talent incubator in the world, and features a lineup of Canadian and North American premieres, creator Q&As, workshops, and collaborations with leading filmmakers to celebrate new voices in cinema.

This year’s Committee members include Arjun Persaud, Celina Tang, Dev Desai, Ellie Tripp, Faven Tesfamichael, Honora Murphy, Keertan Somasundaram, Maggie Kane, Naiya Forrester, Norah Daudi, Simona Williams, and Tara Sidhu. These passionate young film lovers collaborate to curate TIFF Next Wave’s Official Selection and programming through fresh and timely perspectives for youth audiences in Toronto and across Canada. With the guidance of TIFF staff, the Committee also supports year-round TIFF programming for young audiences and curates a selection of “Next Wave-approved” films at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. Alumni of the TIFF Next Wave Committee that have internationally developed their careers include Shiva Baby and Bottoms director Emma Seligman, Ms. Marvel’s star Iman Vellani, and NYC-based film programmer Samah Ali, among others.

Prior to the Rye Lane screening, audiences are invited to the opening of Lost & Found: There are so many worlds exhibition in the TIFF Bell Lightbox atrium from 5pm to 7pm. Curated by the TIFF Next Wave Committee, this free public art exhibition features multi-media works by Afro-Indigenous artist kaya joan, created with found and recycled substrates from around the city, investigating the stories that exist in the in-between spaces held in place. This exhibition will be on display from March 21 to April 30.

Young audiences can continue the celebrations with a Lost & Found themed Opening Night Party to launch the Festival on April 14, featuring a series of events, from the Battle of the Scores musical showdown, special guests’ attendance, and more. The TIFF Bell Lightbox atrium will transform into a time machine, featuring retro sights and sounds, with a variety of interactive activations and fun decor, like dance floors, clothing swaps, rug tufting photo backdrops, and more. tiff.net for more.

Paramount+ today announced that YONDER, its brand-new original drama series from South Korea, will premiere exclusively on the service on April 11th in Canada, the U.S., U.K., Australia, Latin America, Brazil, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and France.

After his wife, Yi-hoo, passes away from an illness, Jae-hyun one day receives a message from her – an invitation to a world called “Yonder,” which was designed based on her memories. Jae-hyun goes to Yonder and reunites with Yi-hoo again. But can they be together forever? YONDER is directed by Lee Jun-ik and stars Shin Ha-kyun (“Beyond Evil”), Han Ji-min (“Rooftop Prince”), Lee Jeong-eun (“Parasite”) and Jung Jin-young (“Ode to My Father”).

Produced by CJ ENM and Doodoong Pictures, the series is the first local production out of Paramount Global’s strategic partnership with leading entertainment company CJ ENM. Last year, Paramount+ officially marked its entry to Asia with the launch of its streaming service in South Korea on TVING, one of Korea’s leading streaming platforms, launched by CJ ENM. Paramount+ also recently announced its second local production as part of the deal with CJ ENM, BARGAIN, which launched on TVING in October last year, and will premiere exclusively on Paramount+ globally this summer where the service is available. YONDER and BARGAIN are licensed by Paramount Global Content Distribution outside of Korea, Japan and Taiwan.

In addition to YONDER, a collection of thriller & mystery Korean drama series produced by global IP powerhouse CJ ENM and its studios will also be available to stream on Paramount+ globally starting April 11th, including:

· SIGNAL – Communicating via a walkie-talkie that transcends time, a criminal profiler from 2015 and a detective from 1989 join forces to tackle crimes and injustice. Produced by Studio Dragon and AStory, SIGNAL stars Lee Je-hoon (“Move to Heaven”), Kim Hye-soo (“Default”) and Cho Jin-woong (“A Hard Day”).

· VOICE (SEASONS 1 & 2) – VOICE follows the employees of an emergency call center and dispatch teams as they try to help victims using only what they hear during their calls for help. Two police officers join forces to become the “Golden Time team” to solve cases as they happen in real time. Produced by Studio Dragon and Content K, VOICE stars Jang Hyuk (“The Killer: A Girl Who Deserves to Die”) and Lee Ha-na (“Alone in Love”).

· SAVE ME (SEASONS 1 & 2) – A dark religious cult masquerading as a peaceful pastoral church wreaks havoc on unsuspecting community members. Produced by Studio Dragon and Hidden Sequence, the series stars Oc Taec-yeon (“Vincenzo”) and Seo Yea-ji (“It’s Okay to Not Be Okay”).

Montreal-based, not-for-profit documentary platform Tënk, currently celebrating its 3rd year anniversary, has announced its expansion into English Canada coinciding with a fundraising campaign to raise 20K through subscriptions. Run by Florence Lamothe, Co-Director and General Manager and Naomie Décarie-Daigneault, Co-Director and Artistic Director, and curated by a diverse list of esteemed filmmakers, critics, and programmers, Tënk brings the best in contemporary and classic auteur-driven documentaries. With over 40 films on SVOD and 350 films on VOD, current films on the platform include the award-winning No Ordinary Man by Chase Joynt and Aisling Chin-Yee’s, Still Processing by Sophy Romvari, and a retrospective of icon Allan King’s best works. For more information visit tenk.ca.

“In 2018, Naomie and I, who were both already heavily involved in the documentary world, traveled to France to visit the Tënk organization, who are known leaders in their field in Europe. We came away completely inspired,” said Florence Lamothe, General Manager. “We decided to bring together our individual forces and follow the French model for Canada, with a focus in the Quebec market to start. Now that we are 3 years in, we are ready to push the platform out to the rest of Canada and bring the best in documentaries to new viewers.”

“Canada is known for its wealth of documentary filmmakers and we are so proud to be able to showcase Canadian auteurs alongside their international peers,” said Naomie Décarie-Daigneault, Artistic Director. “Never has there been a time in which the documentary genre has been more necessary to tell important stories from around the world. We are all struggling to understand the numerous issues that face humanity, and documentary films offer a meaningful way to educate, transform and inspire people. We feel it’s imperative to make these films as accessible as possible to all Canadians.”

Since its inception in 2020, Tënk has streamed over 850 titles, with nearly 400 of those being Canadian. Each week, 5 films are added to the lineup ensuring viewers have fresh and current options. The platform screens the best from high profile film festivals including Visions du Réel, Locarno International Film Festival, Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival, RIDM (Montreal International Film Festival) and has curated retrospectives on some of the best documentarians in the world including: Chris Marker, Robert Kramer, Nicolas Philibert, Artavazd Pelechian, Chantal Akerman, Patricio Guzman, Sofia Bohdanowicz, Agnès Varda, Danae Elon, Allan King, among others.

As a solidarity cooperative and subscription-based documentary streaming platform, Tënk services both the industry through its membership for documentarians across Canada as well as the public through its rigorous and meticulous curation of the best documentary films available. In Canada, industry members have a role in the strategic decision-making of the organization, while the curation rests in the hands of the programming team. Tënk allows the industry professionals and organizations to be directly involved so that the decisions taken reflect a common vision.

Tënk offers different levels of subscription for the public from $10/month to $100/year. As part of the subscription, viewers have access to approximately 40 documentaries which are made available for a 2 month window, with 5 films added weekly. Once out of the SVOD catalog, most films remain available for rental (over 350 titles), at the cost of $3 for 48 hours. The Tenk platform can be accessed through PC, tablet, smartphone, Apple TV, Android TV.

W Network have announced three new series coming as part of their Spring 2023 programming lineup! W Network can be streamed via STACKTV, available on Amazon Prime Video Channels, FuboTV, Rogers Ignite TV and Ignite SmartStream. The network is also available through all major TV distributors, including: Bell, Cogeco, Eastlink, Rogers, SaskTel, Shaw, Shaw Direct, Telus, and Videotron.

Romantic Getaway
Premieres Monday, April 17 at 9 p.m. ET/PT

Romantic Getaway is a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde story, mixing classic romantic comedy moments with high octane, thrilling set-pieces and stars two of Britain’s most loved comedy talents. Allison (Katherine Ryan) and Deacon (Romesh Ranganathan) are desperate for a baby but they’ve run out of money to fund any more IVF treatment, so they decide to steal the money from their dodgy boss. Soon their web of lies starts them on a downward spiral into the criminal underworld of suburban Britain, pushing them and their relationship to the limit – all with hilarious consequences.

Rosie Molloy Gives Up Everything
Premieres Monday, April 17 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT

Rosie Molloy (Sheridan Smith) is addicted to everything – smoking, alcohol, Terry’s Chocolate Oranges, Xanax, Adderall, caffeine… the list goes on. After an embarrassing incident at her brother Joey’s wedding Rosie wakes up in the hospital and decides to change her life by ‘giving up everything.’ But as Rosie juggles her father’s ill health and the possibility of losing her job, she has the dawning realisation that her addictions are destroying everything – her friendships, her family and her work life. Harder still is the realisation that perhaps it isn’t the addictions that are the problem. If Rosie does give up everything, will she still be Rosie?

Funny Woman
Premieres Thursday, May 11 at 9 p.m. ET/PT

A young woman from Blackpool finds her voice in the male dominated world of the 1960s comedy scene, and in doing so takes London by storm. Gemma Arterton ( Quantum of Solace) stars as Barbara Parker – a Blackpool beauty queen with dreams of making it in London. It turns out London is not quite as swinging as the one she expected, but after a series of setbacks Barbara finds her uncompromising northern wit is her secret weapon, and she becomes a surprise hit with audiences in a new sitcom that will have an impact on British comedy for decades to come. Based on the Nick Hornby novel Funny Girl and also starring David Threlfall and Rupert Everett.

Today, the adored Prime Video series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel revealed the official trailer for the groundbreaking series’ fifth and final season. The series, which has shattered glass ceilings for the past six years, will raise the curtain on its final act on April 14, 2023 with a three-episode premiere and new episodes weekly, until the finale on May 26, 2023.

After burning bridges and being cut from tour, Midge Maisel persisted through Season Four, rebuilding her career and reputation. The final moments of the season culminated with Midge leaving Carnegie Hall reinvigorated and ready to weather any blizzard. After an epiphany in front of The Gordon Ford Show’s snowy billboard, Midge is ready to “Go forward” and fight for her ascent to stardom—equipped with her quick wit and sharp tongue, and nothing else to lose.

In the fifth and final season, Midge finds herself closer than ever to the success she’s dreamed of, only to discover that closer than ever is still so far away.

Creator Amy Sherman-Palladino and executive producer Daniel Palladino have “exactly” known the series’ “last images” and “last moment” since the Season Four finale last year.

An awards juggernaut, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel has won 20 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series; six Critics Choice Awards; four Screen Actors Guild Awards; three Golden Globe Awards; and more. The series has become one of the most acclaimed and beloved shows on television and changed the game of the streaming industry.

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, from renowned creator Amy Sherman-Palladino and executive producer Daniel Palladino, is written and directed by Sherman-Palladino and Palladino, and stars Emmy winner Rachel Brosnahan, four-time Emmy winner Tony Shalhoub, three-time Emmy winner Alex Borstein, Emmy nominee Marin Hinkle, Michael Zegen, Kevin Pollak, Caroline Aaron, SAG Award winner Reid Scott, Alfie Fuller, and Jason Ralph.

MAISEL SEASON FIVE SYNOPSIS

In the fifth and final season, Midge finds herself closer than ever to the success she’s dreamed of, only to discover that closer than ever is still so far away.

Disney+ announced today the four-part docuseries “Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All,” in which Emmy Award-winning producers at Fulwell 73 Productions (“Elton John Live: Farewell from Dodger Stadium “Adele: One Night Only,” ”The GRAMMY Awards”) will take viewers on a journey around the world spotlighting how an unlikely child with a stutter rose to fame to become one of the biggest global music superstars and how his chart-topping hits were born. “Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All,” from Disney Branded Television, is set to premiere globally Wednesday, May 3, 2023 on Disney+.

For the first time, global superstar Ed Sheeran opens the doors to a definitive and searingly honest view into his private life as he explores the universal themes that inspire his music. This series follows Ed after he learns of life-changing news and reveals his hardships and triumphs during the most challenging period of his life. Blending exclusive, never-before-seen personal archive, present-day actuality, authentic interviews with his wife and loved ones, and intimate performances in cinematic locations, the series widens the lens to unearth what Sheeran thinks of the world, of himself and his music, as well as showcases a decade of hits enjoyed by subscribers around the world.

Throughout his long, successful career, Sheeran has inspired multiple generations of adults, families and kids across the globe with his chart-topping music and intimate storytelling in his songs. In each episode, Ed faces themes and emotions that most people experience. Ed expresses his deeper thoughts as he reassesses life, and how this difficult time has influenced him and his new music. Ed’s upcoming sixth studio album, “ – ” (pronounced “Subtract”), is set to be released on Friday, May 5, through Atlantic in the US, Atlantic/Asylum Records in the UK and Atlantic/Warner Music in the rest of world, with the lead single “Eyes Closed” arriving this Friday, March 24.

“In this docuseries, we’re going to reveal a side of Ed Sheeran that fans have never seen before,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. “Together with Fulwell 73, we’ve created something truly authentic and personal that will not only entertain audiences but also inspire them to dream big and pursue their passions.”

“I’ve always been very guarded in my personal and private life; the only documentary I’ve ever made has been one that focused on my songwriting,” said Sheeran. “Disney approached me to make a four-part documentary, and it felt like the right time to open the door and let people in. I hope people enjoy it.”

“Everyone in the world knows and loves Ed Sheeran’s songs, as he has been the soundtrack to so many moments of our lives,” said Fulwell 73 partners Ben Turner and Ben Winston in a joint statement. “But this series of films shows the true man behind the hits, showing Ed in an entirely different way after a tumultuous year personally and professionally. This four-part series has been an honor for us to make.”

Episodes include the following:

“Love”

Ed Sheeran explains the unwavering work ethic that has driven his global success. With exclusive footage of his teenage years, Ed describes how he planned his unlikely success. When he was ignored by the music industry he started to play in unexpected settings until this determination brought him into contact with media entrepreneur Jamal Edwards in 2010. Together, they used the burgeoning internet to find their audience. “The A Team” breaks America but for Ed something was still missing. Ed shares the story behind his iconic love song, “Perfect” about his old school friend and now wife Cherry which tells of their romantic love story. Ed seems to have everything, until Cherry gets life altering news and Ed quickly realizes that plans can change in an instant and he will have to adapt.

“Loss”

Ed, his parents, and wife Cherry look at old photos of Ed and explain why he decided to return to live in his English hometown. With unseen footage of Ed’s Divide Tour, Ed introduces his tight fortress of trusted friends that keep him anchored. Then, the unthinkable happens. Ed’s best friend, Jamal Edwards suddenly dies. Ed struggles through a memorial for Jamal as he considers Jamal’s legacy. Ed meditates on the meaning of friendship and, using music as therapy, dives deep into work. During Ed’s 5-night run at London’s Wembley Stadium, British artist, Stormzy, joins Ed on stage in an epic performance before a smaller, surprise gig in his hometown. In a rousing homecoming singalong, Ed sings the iconic “Thinking Out Loud” to shocked locals looking on.

“Focus”

Ed shows his songwriting talents in exclusive archival footage showing the inception of one of his biggest hits, “Bad Habits.” Ed explains the origin story of writing “Eyes Closed” in 2018, through to its latest heartfelt version. After a turbulent year, Ed’s able to channel his emotions, and pours himself into completing his 5-album masterplan with Subtract, which has eluded him for over a decade. Mourning the loss of Jamal, Ed continues at pace, filming 14 music videos for his new album and has his childhood dream come true when he performs with Eminem at the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, but Cherry worries he may be using work as a distraction. In an intimate performance, Ed publicly shares songs from Subtract for the first time but is overwhelmed when his emotions get the better of him.

“Balance”

In the final episode, Ed jets off to America to promote his tour. Both Ed and Cherry reflect on how they manage the challenges of balancing family life and work when they are regularly miles apart. Reunited at their home, Cherry explains how much of a shift she has seen in Ed over the last year. Ed meets up with friend and fellow British artist, Stormzy, to share his apprehensions of releasing his most personal thoughts into the world with Subtract. In a tribute to Jamal, Ed writes a beat for his “F64” rap about their friendship for an intimate performance at Chelsea FC’s home ground, Stamford Bridge. After some good news about Cherry’s health, she and Ed reflect on all the hardships and triumphs over the last year and look towards the future having a more cherished outlook on life.

“Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All” is produced by Fulwell 73 Productions. For Fulwell 73, Ben Winston and Ben Turner are executive producers. David Soutar is series director. For Disney Branded Television, Marc Buhaj is vice president, Unscripted and Nonfiction, and Nicole Silveira is vice president, Unscripted.

(Photo/video credit: Disney+)