#FOOD: CHEF MASASHI YAMAMOTO TORONTO AND OTTAWA APPEARANCES WITH CHEF ROMAIN AVRIL AND CLEMENT LEUNG MEET-AND-GREETS

Masashi Yamamoto, one of Japan’s most revered blacksmiths, will make a rare visit to Canada this fall for two public daytime appearances hosted by Knifewear, in Toronto on Saturday, October 4, 2025 and Ottawa on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Known internationally for his razor-sharp blades and meticulous craftsmanship, Yamamoto will demonstrate traditional forging techniques live on-site, engrave knives from his exclusive collection with Knifewear, and engage directly with fans and culinary professionals. In Toronto, guests can expect a variety of activities including a forging demonstration by Masashi-san, live chef knife skills demos with celebrity chef Romain Avril, a meet-and-greet with viral content creator Clement Leung, and light snacks and refreshments. Free and open to the public, the experience offers a rare opportunity to witness a master at work and to explore the artistry behind Japanese bladesmithing. RSVPs for the Toronto event can be made HERE.

Toronto Event – Saturday, October 4
Knifewear Toronto, 517 Bloor St. W
11:30am – 1:00pm: Knife Engraving
1:30pm – 2:00pm: Knife Skills Demonstration with celebrity chef Romain Avril (IG: @chefromainavril)
2:00pm – 3:00pm: Knife forging demonstration with master blacksmith Masashi Yamamoto
3:30pm – 4:00pm: Viral content creator, Clement Leung (IG: @insta.noodls) meet-and-greet
4:00pm – 5:30pm: Knife Engraving

Joining the Toronto event, Toronto-based chef Romain Avril (IG: @chefromainavril) combines MICHELIN training with Canadian creativity, a celebrated culinary personality whose work spans across fine dining and engaging social media content. Clement Leung (IG: @insta.noodls) is a viral Toronto-based foodie, known for sharing local Toronto eats with millions of fans across TikTok and Instagram.
RSVPs can be made HERE.

Ottawa Event – Sunday, October 5
Knifewear Ottawa, 800 Bank St.
1:30pm – 3:00pm: Knife Engraving
3:00pm – 3:30pm: Viral foodie, Allie S (IG: @yumyumyow) meet-and-greet
4:00pm – 5:30pm: Knife Engraving

Joining the Ottawa event, Allie S (IG: @yumyumyow) is an Ottawa-based food storyteller who spotlights local eats, community flavours, and the vibrant restaurant scene in Canada’s capital. Masashi-san will also be hand-engraving knives* and hosting cooking demonstrations alongside top local chefs: Rikuo Kameda of Soif Bar à Vin, Nathan Rogers of Pelican Seafood, and Adam Ghor, Chef/Owner at Stolen Goods Cocktail Bar.

RSVPs can be made HERE.

Both events offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience Japanese blacksmithing traditions firsthand and to celebrate Knifewear’s dedication to premium Japanese knives and cookware.
*Note: Engravings available on Masashi knives only, one per person, first come, first served.

About Masashi Yamamoto
When Masashi Yamamoto opened his own blacksmithing workshop in 2013, he was continuing a legacy while pushing it in new directions. Trained by his uncle, at Yoshikane Hamono, the family’s forge in Japan’s Niigata Prefecture, Masashi-san adopted a regional technique that emphasizes shaping blades as close to their final form as possible. The result is less waste and a level of precision that has become his signature.
In just over a decade, he has already built a reputation for knives that are both mirror-polished and remarkably sharp. He has outpaced many of his peers and now mentors two apprentices of his own.
Masashi-san is known for his unwavering approach to the craft. He has been seen forging in flip-flops and once lit a cigarette from the glowing steel of a blade in progress. His work reflects both deep discipline and irreverent flair; a blacksmith with a serious edge. At the heart of his philosophy is a relentless striving for refinement.

“Blacksmiths always have to be better than their last knife,” says Masashi Yamamoto.

About Knifewear
Knifewear is Canada’s premier retailer of handcrafted Japanese kitchen knives and premium cookware, with locations nationwide. Beyond retail, the company fosters education and appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship through events, chef collaborations, and in-store experiences. It has built its reputation not only on selling some of the finest handmade blades in the world, but also on the ethos that guides its business. Knifewear has donated more than $1.7 million to Canadian charities, donating half of all sharpening proceeds each year. Its commitments extend to environmental responsibility, fair treatment of artisans, and fostering an inclusive community. At its core, Knifewear champions products that last a lifetime, and the small, everyday rituals that make life more meaningful.

#FOOD: FALL 2025 MENUS – TORONTO’S LYLA, LUNCH LADY, FICOA, HARBOUR SIXTY, ARIANNA

This fall, Toronto’s most notable dining destinations are rolling out seasonal offerings designed to celebrate comfort, tradition, and culinary creativity. Miku will mark the holiday with a special Thanksgiving buffet, while Lyla, Lunch Lady, Ficoa, Harbour Sixty and Arianna unveil menu items that highlight the flavours and spirit of the season. From festive gatherings to intimate dinners, these restaurants are giving Torontonians a reason to dine out and embrace fall’s best flavours.

Miku

Waterpark Place – 10 Bay St

W. mikutoronto.com

IG. @mikutoronto

On Sunday, October 12, Miku Toronto invites guests to celebrate Thanksgiving with a Japanese Seafood and Prime Rib Buffet crafted by Chef de Cuisine Michael Acero and Head Pastry Chef Glenda San Jose. Offered during lunch service only, this exclusive experience features Miku’s signature creations and Aburi favourites at the restaurant’s scenic waterfront location, along with a featured Thanksgiving cocktail and mocktail available for purchase. The à la carte menu will not be available at this time. Pricing is $95 for adults, $35 for children aged 7–12, and complimentary for children six and under (plus tax and gratuity). Guests can reserve a spot and enjoy the buffet HERE.

Whether gathering with friends or family, guests are invited to mark the holiday with an indulgent dining experience that brings together the richness of prime rib, the freshness of seasonal seafood, and the artistry of Japanese cuisine. Miku’s Thanksgiving buffet offers a memorable way to celebrate Thanksgiving in style.

Seafood and Prime Rib Thanksgiving Buffet

Raw Bar

Chef Selected Sashimi
Shrimp Cocktail with Yuzu Cocktail Sauce
Seared Tuna Tataki with Truffle Ponzu

Appetizers
Salmon Nanbanzuke (Chilled Marinated Fried Salmon)
Kinpira (Sliced Root Vegetables)
Dashimaki (Japanese Omelette)
Mentaiko (Pollock Roe)
Seaweed Salad
Miso Soup

Sushi
Aburi Oshi Sushi Station
Chef Selection of Aburi Nigiri
Chef Selection of Maki Sushi

Kitchen Signatures

Prime Rib Carving Station
Roast Turkey with Sage Apple Stuffing
Make-Your-Own Ramen Station
Aji Katsu ‘Spanish Mackerel’ Fry
Chicken Karaage
Atlantic Miso Yaki
Panko-Breaded Oysters ‘Kaki’ Fry

Dessert
Petit Green Tea Opera
Tahitian Vanilla Cheesecake
Jasmine Tea Ice Cream

Pops, teas, and coffee included.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends at Miku Toronto. Reserve now through OpenTable HERE.

Lyla

60 Sudbury St.

W. lylatoronto.com

IG. @lylatoronto

As Lyla ushers in the fall season, the restaurant leans into Ontario’s local harvest with a menu that captures the warmth and refinement of fall dining: a few highlights include the Duck Duo, Rigatoni al Brasato di Manzo, and their signature fall cocktail, Soul Tie.

Duck Duo ($59 + tax)
This refined dish features a 7-day dry-aged, 8 oz seared Ontario duck breast, paired with three duck confit croquettes. It’s served with a silky carrot purée, za’atar pomegranate glaze, and finished with a spiced duck jus. Rich, bold, and beautifully balanced, perfect for fall dining.

Rigatoni al Brasato di Manzo ($35 + tax)
A comforting yet elevated pasta made with slow-braised Ontario beef short rib, finished with a deeply savoury short rib jus and topped with a light ricotta espuma. It’s the kind of warm, hearty dish that guests crave as the weather cools down.

Soul Tie ($25 + tax) (Clarified Cocktail)

This is Lyla’s fall cocktail feature, a bold and aromatic clarified drink made with Bearface Whisky, Amaro Nonnino, absinthe, pomegranate and lime juice, and a house-made ginger & Thai chili syrup. It’s clarified through a 24-hour milk wash, resulting in a smooth, complex cocktail that’s both visually stunning and rich in flavour.

To reserve a table at Lyla, visit the OpenTable link HERE

Lunch Lady

93 Ossington Ave.

W. thelunchlady.com

IG. @thelunchladytoronto

This fall, Lunch Lady leans into the season with two dishes that balance comfort, nostalgia, and refinement. Drawing from Vietnamese culinary traditions and elevated with thoughtful technique, these plates invite diners to experience familiar flavours in a new light.

Phở Bò Wagyu – Wagyu Beef Noodle Soup ($36 + tax)

This dish transforms the classic noodle soup into a rich, layered experience. Rare wagyu zabuton, beef cheek, ox tail, and bone marrow come together in a deeply flavourful 24-hour beef broth, finished with rice noodles and a slow-poached egg. The result is a bowl that feels both luxurious and deeply soulful.

Nui Xào Bò – Rigatoni Short Rib ($32 + tax)

Lunch Lady’s Nui Xào Bò reimagines a recipe rooted in childhood memories for many Vietnamese families. Once a humble stir-fry made with macaroni, leftovers, and pantry sauces, this version dials up the depth with rigatoni tossed in the familiar sweet-salty flavours of the dish, paired with the richness of braised short rib in the style of beef bourguignon. It’s a beloved staple that manages to be nostalgic and modern all at once, perfect for cooler days ahead.

To reserve a table at Lunch Lady visit the OpenTable link HERE

Arianna

4th Floor – 60 Harbour St. Toronto, ON

W. harbour60.com/arianna

IG. @arianna.harboursixty

From October 10–13, Arianna at the Harbour Sixty invites guests to enjoy exclusive Thanksgiving specials, crafted just for the holiday. Located in the iconic Harbour Sixty building, the space feels both lively and intimate; a perfect backdrop for celebrations with friends or family. Featured dishes include:

Fried Chicken Piccata with white corn grits and burnt lemon ($47)

Fried Brussels Sprouts with bagna cauda and brown anchovy ($18)

Squash Agnolotti with pickled delicata and brown butter crumb ($28)

Chef de Cuisine Scott MacKenzie balances hearty, comforting flavours with refined technique, ensuring each dish is a celebration of the season.

To reserve Arianna, visit Opentable HERE.

Harbour Sixty

60 Harbour St. Toronto, ON

W. harbour60.com

IG. @harboursixty

Prime Rib ($99)

For a more traditional Thanksgiving, Harbour Sixty is offering prime rib on Sunday evening of Thanksgiving (available exclusively during dinner service), served with Yorkshire pudding, pommes purée, and jus.

Harbour Sixty’s “Famous” Coconut Cream Pie (Pre-Order; $120)

A highlight of the holiday menu is Harbour Sixty’s “Famous” Coconut Cream Pie, layered with Vanilla Bean Chantilly, toasted coconut, and Dulcey chocolate. This decadent showstopper is available as a whole pie (serves 8), with orders requiring 48 hours’ notice by calling the restaurant.

Executive Chef Solomon Mason and his team maintain the steakhouse’s legendary quality while creating a festive yet approachable dining experience for guests seeking a luxurious Thanksgiving feast.

To reserve Harbour Sixty, visit Opentable HERE.

Ficoa

585 College St. Toronto, ON

W. ficoa.ca

IG. @ficoa.to

While closed on Thanksgiving Day, Ficoa invites Torontonians to celebrate Friendsgiving during the holiday week. Chef Esau Garcia has curated a selection from the a la carte menu to showcase the season’s bounty and Latin culinary tradition. Highlights include:

Molotes — cheese-stuffed plantains with salsa tatemada and crema ($8)

Empanadas — corn masa filled with braised short rib, queso cotija, crema, and aji salsa ($15)

Pollo a la Brasa — Peruvian-style roasted chicken with citrus and fresh herb jus ($40)

La Joya — 10 oz wagyu flat iron with chimichurri and shiitake mulato butter ($85)

Papas a la Huancaína — baby potatoes, Peruvian cheese foam, grated cured egg yolk, dehydrated black olives ($10)

For the main course, Ficoa recommends pairing the Pollo Asado with Papas a la Huancaína and La Joya, reflecting Chef Garcia’s focus on Ontario’s micro-seasons and his playful reinterpretation of Latin flavours.

To reserve Ficoa, visit Opentable HERE.

#NEWMUSIC: “THE PROMISE OF MUSIC: THE FIRST WORLD CONGRESS ON THE SOCIAL IMPACT OF MUSIC”

Music isn’t just entertainment, it’s one of the most powerful, universal forces shaping human behaviour, health, culture, and community. The Promise of Music: the First World Congress on the Social Impact of Music, will convene in Toronto from October 6 to 10, 2025 bringing together an extraordinary roster of global artists, leaders, educators, scientists, technologists and changemakers. Their shared goal? To examine how music can address some of the most urgent challenges of our time by coming together and bringing the music and ideas to Toronto.

What makes this event newsworthy isn’t just its mission, it’s the unprecedented scale and diversity of participation:

• 19 Concerts
• 560 Performers
• 75 Speakers
• 30 Forums

AMONG THE PARTICIPANTS: AR Rahman, Viggo Mortensen, Bob Ezrin, The Hon Romeo Dallaire, Gabor Maté, Chilly Gonzales, Lil Buck, The Recycled Orchestra of Catuera, Afghan National Institute of Music, Jerusalem Youth Chorus, Firdaus Orchestra, Lara Somos, Mully Children’s Family Choir, OrKidstra (Canada), Sinfonía por el Perú Youth Choir (Perú) Sistema New Brunswick Children’s Orchestra, Sistema Toronto, Social Impact Through Music-Making (SIMM), Sunshine Orchestra PLUS Over 70 Speakers including: Dr. Ahmad Naser Sarmast, Tod Machover, Jamie Bernstein, Matthew Bell, Dr. Lukas Pairon and leading international neurologists, developmental psychologists, music therapists, scientists, economists, community organizations, policy makers, educators, arts advocates, and more.

At a time when mental health crises are on the rise, The Promise of Music highlights evidence-based innovations using music. Part music festival, part conference, this incredible gathering goes far beyond performance – it’s about research, impact, and implementation at scale.

What the public will experience:

• Incredible performances from inspirational and exceptional artists and ensembles
• Access to remarkable talents making their Canadian debuts
• International voices rarely under one roof
• First-of-its-kind research and data on music’s measurable effects on health, learning, and community well-being
• Stories with human urgency and global resonance

THE COMPLETE SCHEDULE AND TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT

www.promiseofmusic.com

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “WHO KILLED THE MONTREAL EXPOS?”

On September 29th, 2004, the Montreal Expos played their final home game before a grieving crowd at Olympic Stadium. For 35 years, the Expos had been more than a ballclub—they were the first Major League Baseball team to call Canada home and became part of Montreal’s heartbeat, a symbol of pride and identity for Québécois.

Generations grew up with the Expos, celebrating triumphs and enduring struggles. That final game marked the end of an era, and for many, the loss of a piece of themselves. Two decades later, the heartbreak remains, and the same question haunts the city that once dreamed in Expos blue: who’s to blame for the loss of our team?

Featuring rare archival footage and flashbacks of the Expos’ greatest moments, the documentary is equal parts sports drama, cultural love story, and gripping whodunit, unraveling the enduring mystery of how it all came to an end.

WHO KILLED THE MONTREAL EXPOS?
DIRECTOR: Jean-François Poisson
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Richard Speer, Marie-Christine Pouliot, Nick Trotta
PRODUCER: Stéphanie Thibault
LOGLINE: Twenty years after Montreal lost its beloved Expos, fans still want answers.WHO KILLED THE MONTREAL EXPOS? takes a behind-the-scenes look at the controversial decisions, setbacks, and missteps that sealed the team’s fate.

WHO KILLED THE MONTREAL EXPOS? coming to Netflix October 21, 2025.

#THEATRE: “TELL TALE HARBOUR” NOW PLAYING AT ROYAL ALEXANDRA THEATRE

Last night at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, Mirvish Productions opened their latest, Tell Tale Harbour which is based on The Grand Seduction by Ken Scott and co-written by Great Big Sea’s Alan Doyle (who also stars). The show is a simple story, but one that captivates the heart of the audience effortlessly, this small Atlantic Canada town is about to lose its fish plant – which is the primary way this town sustains itself. They’re offered an opportunity though, along with the other neighbouring towns – they can secure a state of the art frozen french fry factory – but one thing stands in their way – they need a resident doctor so the town bans together to try and swoon the English doctor into making Tell Tale Harbour his home.

The hilarious Musical Comedy focuses on Frank (Alan Doyle) who is determined to do everything in his power to make his little town a warm welcoming for Dr. Chris (Kale Penny) even if that means making the town seem like a slice of London. Caught in the middle of all these lies, indifferent but wanting to ensure she and her loved ones are safe but cannot partake, willingly, with the lies is Frank’s niece, Kathleen (Melissa MacKenzie) who slowly warms up to the Doctor despite her uninterest in playing with the façade. Tell Tale Harbour is hilarious, heart-warming and charming that is lifted by its wonderful Cast and an important part of the 2025/2026 Mirvish season.

Be sure to catch Alan Doyle in Tell Tale Harbour at the Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto before it leaves November 2, 2025. Tickets now on sale at mirvish.com.

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#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “JAY KELLY”

Today we get a new Trailer for JAY KELLY, from Noah Baumbach, starring George Clooney and Adam Sandler. In select theatres November 14, 2025, on Netflix December 5, 2025.

ABOUT JAY KELLY
Director: Noah Baumbach
Writers: Noah Baumbach and Emily Mortimer
Producers: David Heyman, Amy Pascal, Noah Baumbach
Cast: George Clooney, Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, Billy Crudup, Riley Keough, Grace Edwards, Stacy Keach, Jim Broadbent, Patrick Wilson, Eve Hewson, Greta Gerwig, Alba Rohrwacher, Josh Hamilton, Lenny Henry, Emily Mortimer, Nicôle Lecky, Thaddea Graham, Isla Fisher, Louis Partridge, Charlie Rowe
Original Score By: Nicholas Britell
Cinematography: Linus Sandgren
Editors: Valerio Bonelli, Rachel Durance
Sound: Christopher Scarabosio
Production Designer: Mark Tildesley
Costume Designer: Jacqueline Durran
Casting By: Douglas Aibel and Nina Gold

Logline:

JAY KELLY, the new film from Academy Award nominee Noah Baumbach, follows famous movie actor, Jay Kelly (George Clooney), as he embarks on a journey of self discovery confronting both his past and present, accompanied by his devoted manager Ron (Adam Sandler). Poignant and humor filled, epic and intimate, JAY KELLY is pitched at the intersection of life’s regrets and notable glories.

#FIRSTLOOK: RICHARD LINKLATER’S “NOUVELLE VAGUE” CANADIAN RELEASE DATE

tiff50 selection NOUVELLE VAGUE from Richard Linklater will debut across Canada October 31, 2025. We get a new Trailer today.

SELECTED OFFICIAL SELECTIONS
Cannes Film Festival 2025
Toronto International Film Festival 2025
Atlantic International Film Festival 2025
Cinéfest Sudbury International Film Festival 2025
Vancouver International Film Festival 2025
New York Film Festival 2025
Telluride Film Festival 2025
Deauville American Film Festival 2025
Munich Film Festival 2025
San Sebastián International Film Festival 2025

Synopsis:
NOUVELLE VAGUE is Oscar-nominated director Richard Linklater’s love letter to the revolutionary magic of the French New Wave, reimagining the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s Breathless, which ultimately cemented Godard as a pioneer of global cinema. As critic-turned-director Godard makes and breaks the rules, a mix of fresh faces and daring talents — including Zoey Deutch as Jean Seberg, Aubry Dullin as Jean-Paul Belmondo, and Guillaume Marbeck as Godard himself — bring his spontaneous, electric film to life. Capturing the youthful dynamism and creative chaos at the heart of one of the world’s most beloved and influential movies, Nouvelle Vague transports us to the streets of 1959 Paris for an ode to the power of cinema to transform our lives.

Principal Cast:
Guillaume Marbeck (feature film debut) as Jean-Luc Godard
Zoey Deutch (The Politician, The Threesome, Set It Up) as Jean Seberg
Aubry Dullin as Jean-Paul Belmondo
Adrien Rouyard as François Truffaut
Antoine Besson as Claude Chabrol
Jodie Ruth-Forest as Suzanne Schiffman
Screenplay: Holly Gent, Vincent Palmo Jr., Michèle Halberstadt, Laetitia Masson

Country: France
Runtime: 106 minutes
Language: French (with English subtitles)

Executive Producers: Emmanuel Montamat, John Sloss
Producers: Laurent Pétin, Michèle Pétin
Canadian Distributor: Photon Films
U.S. Distributor: Netflix

ABOUT PHOTON FILMS AND MEDIA
Launched in 2010, Photon Films and Media (photonfilms.ca), formerly Pacific Northwest Pictures, is a leading Canadian entertainment company specializing in the development, financing, production and distribution of feature films for the domestic and international marketplace. With an emphasis on high quality films from leading filmmakers in diverse genres, Photon Films brings those films to consumers with innovative forms of marketing and distribution across all distribution platforms.

Recent theatrical releases include the SXSW Grand Jury and Audience Award Winner Bob Trevino Likes It from writer/director Tracie Laymon and starring Barbie Ferreira and John Leguizamo, Tribeca Audience Award Winner Bad Shabbos with Kyra Sedgwick, David Paymer and Method Man, and the critically acclaimed documentary One to One: John & Yoko from directors Kevin Macdonald and Sam Rice-Edwards. Upcoming films include Youngblood from director Hubert Davis and starring Blair Underwood and Ashton James, and Little Lorraine from director Andy Hines and starring Stephen Amell, Sean Astin, J Balvin, Matt Walsh, Rhys Darby and Stephen McHattie.

#FIRSTLOOK: NEW TRAILER FOR “ZOOTOPIA 2”

A new trailer for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ upcoming animated adventure “Zootopia 2” launches today and features an all-new original song, “Zoo,” performed by Shakira who returns as the voice of Zootopia’s biggest pop star, Gazelle.

In the trailer, audiences get a first look at brand-new characters and a hidden reptile population when rookie cops Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) come face-to-face with a mysterious pit viper, Gary De’Snake (voice of Academy Award®-winner Ke Huy Quan). The film is directed by the Oscar®-winning team of Disney Animation chief creative officer Jared Bush and Byron Howard and produced by Yvett Merino.

“Zoo” music and lyrics are written by Ed Sheeran, Blake Slatkin and Shakira. The song is produced by Blake Slatkin, Alex (A.C.) Castillo, Shakira and Ed Sheeran. The single “Zoo” releases on Friday, October 10. The “Zootopia 2” score is composed by Academy Award®-winner Michael Giacchino and launches as a part of the full soundtrack on Friday, November 21, ahead of the film’s theatrical release on Wednesday, November 26.

In addition to writing and producing the single “Zoo” with Shakira, Ed Sheeran and Blake Slatkin appear in “Zootopia 2” in special cameos as a pair of sheep named Ed Shearin and Baalake Lambkin.

Disney and SiriusXM will also host an exclusive first listen of “Zoo” on Disney Hits (channel 133) on Wednesday, October 8. SiriusXM’s Disney Hits will play the full song every hour through the end of the day ahead of its worldwide release on October 10.

“Zoo” will resonate with fans of the breakout anthem “Try Everything” featured in the original Oscar® winning film “Zootopia” released in 2016. “Try Everything” has been streamed 2.7 billion times worldwide to date.

The “Zootopia 2” voice cast is composed of an astounding pool of talent that also includes Andy Samberg (“Saturday Night Live”), David Strathairn (“Good Night, and Good Luck”), Macaulay Culkin (“American Horror Story”) and Brenda Song (“The Last Showgirl”) who appear as the Lynxleys, one of the most prominent families in Zootopia. Comedian Fortune Feimster (“Crushing It”) previously joined the cast as Nibbles Maplestick, an oddball beaver whose podcast explores reptile mysteries; Idris Elba (“Heads of State”) returns as Chief Bogo, the well-respected head of the Zootopia Police Department; Patrick Warburton (“The Emperor’s New Groove”) voices actor-turned-politician Mayor Brian Winddancer; Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”) stars as Dr. Fuzzby, an adorable quokka therapy animal; and Nate Torrence (“Get Smart”) reprises his role as Clawhauser, Zootopia Police Department’s charming cheetah receptionist.

Pre-Add “Zoo” Single and “Zootopia 2” Soundtrack on Apple HERE

Pre-Save “Zoo” Single and “Zootopia 2” Soundtrack on Amazon HERE

Pre-Order Special 7” Vinyl of “Zoo” Single HERE

#FIRSTLOOK: “SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE” NEW YORK FILM FESTIVAL 2025 PREMIERE

Last night, the stars and filmmakers from 20th Century Studios’ “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” celebrated the film at the 63^rd New York Film Festival at Alice Tully Hall. Stars Jeremy Allen White, Jeremy Strong, Stephen Graham, Odessa Young, Gaby Hoffmann, Matthew Pellicano Jr., David Krumholtz and Harrison Sloan Gilbertson attended the event alongside writer/director/producer Scott Cooper, producers Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, Eric Robertson, and Scott Stuber, and executive producer Warren Zanes. They were joined by Bruce Springsteen, and his longtime manager, Jon Landau, who are portrayed in the film by White and Strong, respectively.  

After the screening, attendees of the star-studded premiere – including Anne Hathaway, Whoopi Goldberg, and Gayle King – were treated to a surprise performance by Springsteen. Cooper, the cast, and the legendary rock icon were greeted by a rapturous response from the crowd, who all stood enthralled during Springsteen’s surprise intimate performance of “Land of Hope and Dreams.”    

The film chronicles the making of Bruce Springsteen’s 1982 “Nebraska” album. Recorded on a four-track recorder in Springsteen’s New Jersey bedroom, the album marked a pivotal time in his life and is considered one of his most enduring works—a raw, haunted acoustic record populated by lost souls searching for a reason to believe.  

 “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” releases exclusively in theatres in IMAX and premium screens everywhere October 24, 2025.   

#NEWMUSIC: WINNERS OF 13th ANNUAL RBC EMERGING MUSICIAN PROGRAM ANNOUNCED

Canada’s Walk of Fame is turning up the volume on Canada’s next big music stars, today announcing the five winners of the 13th annual RBC Emerging Musician Program, in partnership with Stingray. Celebrated as Canada’s premier platform for discovering and supporting the next generation of musical artists, the program offers career-changing mentorship, development, and performance opportunities.

Taking the spotlight this year are: Third Prize Winners John Fellner (London, ON), Braden Lam (Halifax, NS), and Andie Therio (Montreal, QC); Second Prize Winner Jennarie (Toronto, ON); and  Grand Prize Winner Annabel Oreste (Laval, QC).

“I’m so thankful to God for opening this door in my life,” said Oreste. “I feel like the wind is finally carrying me toward new horizons. I make music to empower and to remind others of their worth. I’m deeply grateful to Canada’s Walk of Fame, RBC, and Stingray for believing in me and broadening my horizons. I’m so excited to share more of my world and my music on a national scale.”

This year’s submissions poured in from across the country, underscoring the strength and diversity of Canada’s musical landscape. A panel of over 20 industry judges reviewed each entry for originality, creativity, and talent, ultimately selecting five recipients whose music spans genres from country and folk to pop and R&B.

“What excites me most about this year’s winners is the individuality and honesty in their music,” said Griffin Sokal, Director of Marketing and Emerging Musician Program Manager, Canada’s Walk of Fame. “Each are at a pivotal moment where talent and drive meet opportunity, and it’s a privilege to help amplify their artistry. Their music is raw, real, and resonant – a reminder of why championing emerging voices matters.”

“At RBC, we’re inspired by the passion and determination of these artists,” said Gayle Corcoran, Senior Director, Social Impact, RBC. “Supporting programs that help early career musicians launch, means investing in the future of culture, creativity and community. That’s why RBC has been a long-standing supporter of Canada’s Walk of Fame and is proud to champion the next generation of Canadian talent.”

“Collaborating with Canada’s Walk of Fame on this program is an incredible opportunity to spotlight homegrown voices,” said David Purdy, Chief Revenue Officer of Stingray. “We believe Canadian music deserves to be heard everywhere. Throughout October, the new Canada’s Walk of Fame channel on Stingray Music will introduce this year’s winners, past alumni, and Canada’s Walk of Fame Inductees to audiences across the country and beyond.”

This year’s Grand Prize Winner is Annabel Oreste of Laval, Quebec, a Canadian-Haitian pop and R&B artist whose music embodies empowerment, resilience, and soul. Known nationally from her run on Star Académie (2021) as Princesse Annabel, she has since built a growing audience with powerful performances and heartfelt songwriting. Her viral cover of Anita Baker’s Body and Soul has surpassed 300,000 views on YouTube, and her singles Trop Jeune—created in partnership with the youth mental health organization Jeune en Tête, where she is an ambassador—and Hero have showcased her artistry on national stages, including Honey Jam 2024 and 2025 (broadcast on CBC Music and CBC Gem). With her debut EP Lovingly set for release in 2026, Annabel is quickly emerging as one of Canada’s most exciting new voices.
Instagram: @annabelorestemusic

The Second Prize Winner is Jennarie of Toronto, Ontario, an independent artist who blends pop, R&B, and jazz into a sound that is soulful, bold, and rooted in emotional truth. Proudly queer, plus-size, and neurodivergent, she creates music that uplifts underrepresented communities and celebrates self-love. In 2024, her empowering track Never Been Small went viral in response to online body-shaming, catching the attention of SZA and Meghan Trainor, amassing millions of views, and surpassing 2 million streams on Spotify. The song was recently featured in Rosebud Baker’s 2025 Netflix comedy special The Motherlode. Jennarie has performed at the TD Toronto Jazz Festival and Pride Toronto, was selected for the RBC x MusiCounts First Up program, and has received support from FACTOR, the Ontario Arts Council, and the Chalmers Foundation.
Instagram: @jennariemusic

The Third Prize Winners:

• John Fellner (London, Ontario), a singer-songwriter who blends indie folk and R&B into a sound that is both intimate and contemporary. Starting out as a JUNO-nominated producer with over 80 million streams to his credit, John discovered a deeper resonance when writing from his own experiences. His thoughtful lyricism and emotional honesty earned him both the Aeolian Hall Songwriting Contest and Slaight Music’s It’s Your Shot Contest in 2023. With a growing presence as a performer, John is now stepping fully into his artistry, crafting songs that connect through vulnerability and depth. Instagram: @johnfellner
• Braden Lam (Halifax, Nova Scotia) blends authentic songwriting with modern indie flair, forging a 21st-century sound rooted in folk tradition. His debut album The Cloudmaker’s Cry earned praise from Billboard, Exclaim!, and Range Magazine, with the single Beautiful Neighbourhoods reaching #7 on the CBC Top 20 and placing in the Top 8 of SiriusXM’s Top of the Country program in 2025. He has performed internationally at The Great Escape (UK), Reeperbahn (Germany), and across Ireland, Scotland, the U.S., and Canada, building a reputation as one of Atlantic Canada’s most compelling young voices.
  Instagram: @bradenlamusic
• Andie Therio (Montreal, Quebec) is a singer-songwriter blending country, pop-rock, and folk into heartfelt songs drawn from her own experiences. She made her official debut in 2022 with She’s Good, a self-written EP that launched her career, followed by her first full-length album Back To You (2023), which earned airplay on SiriusXM Canada and a sold-out release show in Montréal. Since then, she has performed on major stages across Quebec, including Festival Country de Lotbinière, Lasso Montréal, and the Festival Western de St-Tite. After releasing the acoustic mini-album Home Sessions in 2025, Andie is preparing her next chapter with Nomade, the title track of her forthcoming French-language album set for 2026. Instagram: @andietherio

PRIZING DETAILS

The Grand Prize winner receives $20,000 cash, a private studio session at Metalworks Studios, and exclusive performance opportunities at Canada’s Walk of Fame events, including the 2025 Canada’s Walk of Fame Rock the Halls charity concert at El Mocambo on December 20^th, in support of Daily Bread Food Bank.

The Second Prize winner receives $10,000 cash, and each of the three Third Prize winners receives $5,000 cash.

All five winners will also receive:

• Exposure on the dedicated Canada’s Walk of Fame music channel launching this October on Stingray
• A performance at Festival du Voyageur 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba
• A showcase slot at Departure Fest in May 2026 in Toronto
• A creative workshop and mentorship panel at Toronto’s Arthaus
• One (1) group mentorship session with a Canada’s Walk of Fame Inductee, Allan Slaight Music Impact Honouree, or established artist
• $2,000 toward the production of a performance video
• A personalized artist page on emergingmusician.ca

For more information about the winners and to hear their music, visit emergingmusician.ca.

Canada’s Walk of Fame Socials

Instagram: @CWOFame | Twitter: @CWOFame | YouTube: @canadaswalkoffame | Facebook: @CWOFame
Emerging Musician Program Instagram: @emerging.musician
Hashtags: #CanadaThrives #EMP2025

Canada’s Walk of Fame was established in 1998 by founders Bill Ballard, Dusty Cohl and Peter Soumalias, with Dianne Schwalm and in partnership with Gary Slaight.

Canada’s Walk of Fame gratefully acknowledges the support of its 2025 Partners: Seeing Red, Cineplex Entertainment, The Slaight Family Foundation, RBC, Air Canada, MLSE, NBCUniversal, Stingray, VIA Rail Canada, The Printing House, and Roots.

Canada’s Walk of Fame is a registered charity. Charitable Registration Number 889896924RR0001.

About Stingray 
Stingray (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a global music, media, and technology company, is an industry leader in TV broadcasting, streaming, radio, business services, and advertising. Stingray provides an array of global music, digital, and advertising services to enterprise brands worldwide, including audio and video channels, 97 radio stations, subscription video-on-demand content, FAST channels, karaoke products and music apps, and in-car and on-board infotainment content. Stingray Business, a division of Stingray, provides commercial solutions in music, in-store advertising solutions, digital signage, and AI-driven consumer insights and feedback. Stingray Advertising is North America’s largest retail audio advertising network, delivering digital audio messaging to more than 30,000 major retail locations. Stingray has close to 1,000 employees worldwide and reaches 540 million consumers in 160 countries. For more information, visit www.stingray.com