#FIRSTLOOK: “VITRERIE JOYAL” (THE GLASS HOUSE) COMING TO PRIME VIDEO

Prime Video today announced the premiere date and key art for highly-anticipated Canadian Prime Original series, Vitrerie Joyal (The Glass House). Created by Martin Matte and directed by Guillaume Lonergan (Empathie, Audrey est revenue), the six-part limited series will premiere exclusively on Prime Video on May 1. As announced by Series Mania this morning, the series has been officially selected as the closing night gala, where it will make its world premiere on March 27 in Lille, France. Martin Matte, director Guillaume Lonergan and cast members Pier-Luc Funk, Pierre-Yves Roy-Desmarais, Marilyse Bourke, Florence Longpré, Guillaume Cyr, and François Chénier will be in attendance.

“Martin and the team at Encore have created a bold, funny and moving series with Vitrerie Joyal. Its selection for the closing night gala at Series Mania is a testament to the exceptional quality of Canadian storytelling and the talented producers we’re privileged to work with,” said Brent Haynes, Head of Originals, Canada, Amazon MGM Studios. “This series exemplifies our commitment to collaborating with Canadian creators like Martin Matte to bring authentic, compelling and visionary stories to our Canadian customers.”

“I am deeply touched and proud that Vitrerie Joyal has been selected for Séries Mania. It’s a great honour for a series that is very personal to me, brought to life by such a talented team. I can’t wait for audiences to discover it on Prime Video starting May 1,” said Martin Matte.

The comedy-drama, Vitrerie Joyal (The Glass House), takes viewers to the heart of Quebec in the ’90s, a pivotal period when the province oscillated between tradition and modernity. Through the destiny of a first-generation Quebec entrepreneur, who started from nothing to build a prosperous business, an entire era is revealed, between ambition, hope and disillusionment. Alongside Martin Matte, who stars as André Joyal, a character inspired by his father’s life, the series features Pier-Luc Funk, Pierre-Yves Roy-Desmarais, Marilyse Bourke, Florence Longpré, Guillaume Cyr, François Chénier, Steve Laplante, Rémi-Pierre Paquin, Sam Breton, and Marcel Leboeuf.

Filmed entirely in Montreal with a crew of more than 150 Québec film professionals, Vitrerie Joyal (The Glass House) is written by Martin Matte in collaboration with François Avard and co-produced by Encore Télévision and Matte TV for Amazon MGM Studios.

#NEWMUSIC: JADE LEMAC JOINS HILARY DUFF’S “THE LUCKY ME” TOUR

Warner Music Canada / East West Records’ rising pop-singer/songwriter Jade LeMac is set to join Hilary Duff on one of the most anticipated tours of the year. Jade will join the lucky me tour for 28 dates that include New York City’s Madison Square Garden, Toronto’s RBC Amphitheatre and more! Jade’s ticket pre-sale will launch February 19, 10am local time: More details here.

The 21-year-old singer recently wrapped up her Canadian headlining tour at the end of January before heading off to Australia to play a number of festival and headlining shows. On top of the upcoming tour she has upcoming festival appearances that include Austin’s Sips and Sounds, New York’s Governors Ball, and All Things Go Toronto that will see her share the stage with the likes of Lorde, Wet Leg and Del Water Gap. Full list of upcoming tour dates here.

Last month LeMac released a stripped-down version of her acclaimed EP It’s Always At Night with acoustic versions of each track – listen to It’s Always At Night Acoustic. The EP features “Pink Balloon”, “Sleeping with The Lights On,” along with her single “Running Home” which continues to grow, and debuted on the Billboard Canadian Hot 100 chart last week, and is currently sitting within the Top 20 on both the HOT AC and Top 40 radio in Canada.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES

March 14 – Austin, TX – Sips and Sounds

June 06 – New York, NY – Governors Ball

June 07 – Toronto, ON – All Things Go

June 22 – West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre^

June 23 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre^

June 25 – Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheatre^

June 27 – Houston, TX – The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Sponsored by Huntsman)^

June 28 – Austin, TX – Germania Insurance Amphitheater^

June 30 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory^

July 3 – Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre^

July 8 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum^

July 11 – Mountain View, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre^

July 12 – Wheatland, CA – Toyota Amphitheatre^

July 14 – Ridgefield, WA – Cascades Amphitheater^

July 15 – Auburn, WA – White River Amphitheatre^

July 17 – Salt Lake City, UT – Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre^

July 20 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre^

July 22 – St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheater^

July 23 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center^

July 25 – Shakopee, MN – Mystic Lake Amphitheater^

July 26 – Tinley Park, IL – Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre^

July 28 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center^

July 30 – Nashville, TN – Ascend Amphitheater^

August 1 – Charlotte, NC – Truliant Amphitheater^

August 2 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live^

August 5 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden^

August 8 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center^

August 9 -Philadelphia, PA – TD Pavilion at Highmark Mann^

August 12 – Toronto, ON – RBC Amphitheatre^

August 15 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre^

August 16 – Grand Rapids, MI – Acrisure Amphitheater^

^ w/ Hilary Duff

ABOUT JADE

Jade LeMac has a magnifying glass on pop music’s soul. With the strength of her pen, the Vancouver-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist paints a melodic world that embraces all the vulnerable layers many choose to hide. Jade’s signature combination of emotive lyrics and tender vocals, along with her advocacy for the queer community, has propelled her as one of the most intriguing artists of pop’s new generation. Her honesty drives her new EP, It’s Always At Night (out via Warner Music Canada / East West Records). In 2021, Jade released her breakout single “Constellations,” that quickly blew up landing syncs in Tubi’s 2024 movie, Sidelined: The QB and Me, and Netflix’s My Life with The Walter Boys. The single has since been certified Gold in the US and Platinum in Canada. In 2023, released the Constellations EP, followed by 2024’s Confessions EP, continuing to experiment with her songwriting and singing techniques. Building a strong fanbase on TikTok, the artist hasn’t shied away from embracing her Queer and Vietnamese identity and sharing her personal life with fans. Her genuine nature has been recognized by critics and peers alike. In 2022, she was featured in GLAAD’s 20 Under 20 and earned an Outstanding Breakthrough Music Artist nomination at the 2024 GLAAD Media Awards. She’s also received copious critical acclaim from outlets like Earmilk, Wonderland, Teen Vogue, Ones To Watch, Flaunt, Pop Dust, and more. In 2025, Jade’s musicality shone on festival stages like Lollapalooza, (even opening for ROLE MODEL’s talked about after-party that saw Olivia Rodrigo as a special guest), and Osheaga, and touring alongside Maren Morris with more exciting opportunities to come. As Jade continues to excel with It’s Always At Night, representation and sonic exploration will remain at the forefront of her music.

#NEWMUSIC: HILARY DUFF ANNOUNCES “THE LUCKY ME” TOUR

Ahead of her highly anticipated new album, luck… or something, arriving next Friday, February 20, multiplatinum global superstar Hilary Duff has officially announced the lucky me tour, marking her first full-scale global headline run in almost two decades. Check out her announcement post:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hilary Duff (@hilaryduff)

She first teased the tour announcement at her final “Small Rooms, Big Nerves” show in LA when she brought fans onstage to reenact the viral “With Love” dance.

Hilary Duff: the lucky me tour will span seven countries, with dates across the US, Canada, Mexico, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand beginning June 22 at West Palm Beach, FL’s iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre and then traveling into February 2027. Full routing is available below. Highlights include shows at world-famous venues such as Los Angeles, CA’s Kia Forum (July 8), Morrison, CO’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre (July 20), New York City’s Madison Square Garden (August 5), London, UK’s The O2 (September 10), Melbourne, AU’s Rod Laver Arena (October 26), Montreal, QC’s Bell Centre (February 5, 2027) and Mexico City, MX’s Palacio de los Deportes (February 12, 2027). Support for the 2026 US, Canada, Ireland, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand shows comes from GRAMMY Award-winning and Platinum-selling artist La Roux. Jade LeMac is set to join Duff on the 2026 North America run, and Lauren Spencer Smith will join Duff on the 2027 Canadian run.

Complete presale information for Hilary Duff: the lucky me tour is below. General on-sales in the US, Canada, Ireland, and the UK start Friday, February 20, at 10 am (local), in Mexico at 11 am (local), and in Australia/New Zealand at 1 pm (local). For complete details and ticket information, please visit www.hilaryduff.com/live.

Hilary Duff: the lucky me tour PRESALE INFORMATION:

ARTIST PRESALES:

• NORTH AMERICA (U.S., CANADA, MEXICO): To participate in the Hilary Duff Artist Presale on Wednesday, February 18, at 10 am local time for the US and Canada and Thursday, February 19, at 10 am local time for Mexico, you must sign up at https://livemu.sc/hilaryduff by Monday, February 16, at 6 pm ET. Artist Presales for this tour are hosted by multiple ticketing sites, but anyone who signs up can join the sale. For Artist Presales on Ticketmaster, no code is needed – access is tied to your account. Artist Presales hosted on other sites may require a code for access.

• EUROPE & THE U.K.: Pre-order luck… or something on any format from the Hilary Duff UK/IE store before 2 pm GMT on February 16 to receive presale ticket access to shows in the UK and Ireland. Fans who have already pre-ordered the album through the Hilary Duff UK/IE store will automatically receive the presale link and code. The presale will begin on Tuesday, February 17, at 10 am local time.

• AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND: Pre-order luck … or something on any format from the official Warner Music Australia store before 6 pm AEDT on February 16 to receive presale ticket access to shows in Australia and New Zealand. Fans who have already pre-ordered the album through Warner Music Australia will automatically receive the presale link and code. The presale will begin on Tuesday, February 17, at 12 pm local time.

PARTNER PRESALES:

• AMERICAN EXPRESS: American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets for the Canada dates before the general public, beginning Tuesday, February 17, at 10 am local time through Wednesday, February 18, at 9 am local time. 

• BANAMEX: Banamex cardholders in Mexico will have access to exclusive presale opportunities beginning Tuesday, February 17, from 9 am to 11 pm local time. An additional presale for Banamex credit cardholders will take place on February 18, from 11 am to 11 pm local time. Secure your tickets early and be part of the experience before general sales begin.

• CITI: Citi is the official card of the Hilary Duff: the lucky me tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets in the U.S. beginning Tuesday, February 17, at 10 am local time until Wednesday, February 18, at 9 am local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details, visit www.citientertainment.com.

• MASTERCARD: Mastercard cardholders have special access to presale tickets in Australia. Mastercard Presale in Australia starts Wednesday, February 18, at 2 pm local time and ends Friday, February 20, at 12 pm local time. Plus, Preferred ticket access to some of the best tickets during on sale is available in Australia from Friday, February 20, at 1 pm local time and the UK from Friday, February 20, at 10 am local time. Check out priceless.com/music for details.

• VERIZON: Verizon will offer customers an exclusive presale for Hilary Duff: the lucky me tour in the U.S – no strings attached, simply for being a Verizon customer. The presale for select shows runs from Tuesday, February 17, at 10 am local time until Wednesday, February 18, at 9 am local time. Visit myAccess in the My Verizon app for more details. Learn more about Verizon Access here.

• VODAFONE: Vodafone mobile customers in Australia can be among the first to secure tickets during a presale commencing Wednesday, February 18, at 2 pm local time and ending Friday, February 20, at 12 pm local time. Visit vodafone.com.au/ticket to find out more.

• WESTPAC NEW ZEALAND MASTERCARD: Eligible Westpac New Zealand customers with a Westpac New Zealand Mastercard have special access to presale tickets starting from Wednesday, February 18 at 2 pm local time, and ending Friday, February 20 at 12 pm local time. Westpac hotpoints® Mastercard cardholders also have access to exclusive preferred tickets from Friday, February 20, at 1 pm local time. For more information, visit priceless.com/westpacnz

• WESTFIELD: Westfield members get access to exclusive reserved tickets to see Hilary Duff in Australia. Tickets on sale from 1 pm on Thursday, February 19 local time. Become a Westfield member by downloading the app here: westfield.com.au/membership.

the lucky me tour will celebrate the arrival of Duff’s sixth studio album, luck… or something, available to pre-order/pre-save now HERE. luck… or something includes the acclaimed new single “Roommates,” which is currently climbing at Top 40 & Hot AC Radio in the U.S. and Canada Listen HERE. Co-written by Duff with her husband, GRAMMY® Award-winning songwriter/producer Matthew Koma (Britney Spears, P!nk), and Brian Phillips (Alec Benjamin, blink-182) and co-produced by Koma and Phillips, the track was instantly met with high-profile praise from outlets including Billboard, V Magazine, and Rolling Stone, the latter of which declared it “10 OUT OF 10…one of her best songs.” “Roommates” is joined by an official music video, directed by Matty Peacock (Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande) and currently boasting over 2M views on YouTube HERE.

luck… or something was heralded last fall by its first single, “Mature,” available everywhere now HERE. Hailed by VOGUE for “pushing Duff’s sound in new directions while still feeling quintessentially Hilary,”  the sardonic, shimmering track – which quickly earned over 5M global streams in its first week of release – arrived as a piece of autofiction inspired by romantic misadventures in her formative years.  Set against bright pop production and layered with Duff’s signature wit and vulnerability, “Mature” is accompanied by an evocative music video directed by Lauren Dunn (Olivia Rodrigo, Dove Cameron, Saweetie), which has garnered nearly 4M views via YouTube HERE. 

This weekend will see Duff marking the new album’s impending arrival with SOLD-OUT limited engagements at the Voltaire at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas set for February 13-15 and May 22-24. Hilary’s landmark 2026 kicked off last month with her “Small Rooms, Big Nerves” dates, an instantly SOLD-OUT global run of very special live shows marking her first headline concert appearances in over a decade. Designed as a rare, up-close experience, the performances offered fans a look at an artist reconnecting with live performance on her own terms and setting the stage for what’s next.

HILARY DUFF LIVE 2026

FEBRUARY

13 – Las Vegas, NV – Voltaire at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas (SOLD OUT)

14 – Las Vegas, NV – Voltaire at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas (SOLD OUT)

15 – Las Vegas, NV – Voltaire at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas (SOLD OUT)

MAY

22 – Las Vegas, NV – Voltaire at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas (SOLD OUT)

23 – Las Vegas, NV – Voltaire at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas (SOLD OUT)

24 – Las Vegas, NV – Voltaire at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas (SOLD OUT)

Hilary Duff: the lucky me tour

2026-2027

JUNE

22 – West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre *^

23 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre*^

25 – Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheatre *^

27 – Houston, TX – The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Sponsored by Huntsman *^

28 – Austin, TX – Germania Insurance Amphitheater *^

30 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory *^

JULY

3 – Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre *^

8 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum *^

11 – Mountain View, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre *^

12 – Wheatland, CA – Toyota Amphitheatre *^

14 – Ridgefield, WA – Cascades Amphitheater *^

15 – Auburn, WA – White River Amphitheatre *^

17 – Salt Lake City, UT – Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre *^

20 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre *^

22 – St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheater *^

23 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center *^

25 – Shakopee, MN – Mystic Lake Amphitheater *^

26 – Tinley Park, IL – Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre *^

28 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center *^

30 – Nashville, TN – Ascend Amphitheater *^

AUGUST

1 – Charlotte, NC – Truliant Amphitheater *^

2 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live *^

5 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden *^

8 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center *^

9 – Philadelphia, PA – TD Pavilion at Highmark Mann *^

12 – Toronto, ON – RBC Amphitheatre *^

15 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre *^

16 – Grand Rapids, MI – Acrisure Amphitheater *^

SEPTEMBER

6 – Dublin, IE – 3Arena *

8 – Cardiff, UK – Utilita Arena Cardiff *

10 – London, UK – The O2 *

12 – Manchester, UK – AO Arena *

13 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro *

OCTOBER

20 – Auckland, NZ – Spark Arena *

22 – Brisbane, AU – Brisbane Entertainment Centre *

24 – Sydney, AU – Qudos Bank Arena *

26 – Melbourne, AU – Rod Laver Arena *

Plinko’s Descent: A Tapestry of Tactile Chance

Why does the soft clatter of a falling ball in a plinko game feel like a whispered secret shared on a misty London morning? In England, where the rhythm of drizzle against cobblestone syncs with daily life, the unhurried cascade of pegs and multipliers captures a similar quiet unpredictability. Each drop, a fleeting moment of suspense, mirrors the anticipation of a kettle’s whistle in a cozy flat, drawing users into a digital ritual as familiar as a morning brew.

Pins as Brushstrokes

The board, typically ten to twelve rows deep, balances open space with purpose—each peg a deliberate stroke, guiding the ball’s erratic waltz. Visuals lean into muted silvers and teals, updated in 2024 to echo the Thames at twilight, while the landing slots glow in soft gradients, avoiding the garish neons of less subtle titles. This economy of design invites focus, perfect for a quick session on a rattling train from Leeds.

A Soundscape of Subtlety

Every collision crafts a sonic poem: high-pitched pings at the top soften into deeper thuds near the base, a progression reminiscent of church bells fading into the Cotswolds’ hush. Unlike louder releases, Plinko’s audio never overpowers, its sparse clicks aligning with the tap of fingers on a phone screen during a quiet commute. In 2023 user forums, 62% of sessions were reported on mobile devices, often in portrait mode, where the board’s verticality fits snugly into a single-handed grip.

Risk Tiers as Emotional Palette

Adjustable risk modes shift its emotional hue, each tier a distinct mood. Low risk offers steady blues, multipliers capping at 5x, evoking the calm of a Norfolk estuary. High risk, with its fiery reds and rare 1000x slots, feels like a sudden squall over the Channel.

Mode	Visual Tone	Max Multiplier	Session Vibe
Low	Cool Azure	5x	Steady, meditative
High	Crimson	1000x	Tense, electric

These shifts, rooted in coastal color palettes, make each drop a visual story, with Plinko’s mechanics driving the narrative arc.

Mechanics as Choreography

The board’s payout structure forms a geometric hymn, slots fanning out like the ribs of a Gothic vault. Edge positions hold negligible returns, while central channels tempt with jackpots, their probability curves mirroring statistical arcs in old actuarial tables. A 97% RTP, unchanged since Spribe’s 2022 launch, ensures longevity over fleeting spikes. Auto-drop features, allowing up to ten balls in sequence, weave silver trails across the screen, transforming Plinko into a kinetic sketch, legible even on a budget phone’s small display.

A Session’s Quiet Drama

Envision a sequence: the first ball veers left, grazing a 0.3x slot with a sharp plink, teasing loss. The next corrects, threading center for a 15x glow, its chime blending with the hum of a bus engine. By the fifth drop, a rhythm emerges—unpredictable yet hypnotic, like waves lapping Brighton’s shore. Plinko’s pacing suits fragmented moments: a three-minute burst between meetings, its single-tap launch fitting hurried swipes on a crowded platform.

Cultural Echoes in Digital Craft

Fan communities on platforms like Reddit reimagine its pegs as pixelated hedgerows or map multipliers onto Dartmoor’s contours, blending chance with local lore. This aligns with a 2025 trend: hybrid tools merging random outputs with creative prompts, like quilt patterns randomized at village fetes. In these spaces, becomes a shared canvas, its drops sparking digital folk art.

In its silent deflections, Plinko mirrors the understated chaos of an English garden, where order and whim coexist, each bounce a fleeting note in a larger, unwritten score.

#FIRSTLOOK: “OFF CAMPUS” RENEWED FOR SEASON TWO

Today, Prime Video announced that the upcoming series Off Campus has received a Season Two renewal, ahead of the launch of Season One, which will debut in May 2026. Based on the international bestselling book series from Elle Kennedy, the series will be available on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide May 2026. Prime Video has also released teaser art of the series.

A college soap based on the bestselling book series, Off Campus follows an elite ice hockey team, and the women in their lives, as they grapple with love, heartbreak, and self-discovery—forging deep friendships and enduring bonds while navigating the complexities that come with transitioning into adulthood. Season 1 follows the sexy and fun “opposites attract” romance between quiet songwriter, Hannah, and Briar University’s all-star hockey athlete, Garrett.

“Off Campus captures the kind of emotionally charged, character-driven storytelling that truly resonates with our global Prime Video audience,” said Peter Friedlander, Head of Global Television, Amazon MGM Studios. “With its passionate fan base, rich source material, and an incredible creative team bringing Briar U to life, we knew that this series had the depth and momentum to continue beyond its first season. Set against the high-intensity world of college hockey, the series explores deeply personal journeys and is brought to life by a tremendously talented cast whose chemistry and authenticity make every moment feel real. We have great confidence in the way Louisa has mastered this adaptation and we’re excited to give fans even more of the romance, friendship, and heart that define the series.”

Previously announced series regulars of Off Campus include Ella Bright (The Crown, Malory Towers) Belmont Cameli (Until Dawn, Saved by the Bell), Mika Abdalla (Snack Shack, Sex Appeal), Antonio Cipriano (Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, National Treasure: Edge of History), Jalen Thomas Brooks (The Pitt, Thanksgiving), Josh Heuston (Dune: Prophecy, Heartbreak High) and Stephen Kalyn (Gen V, Motorheads).

Creator Louisa Levy co-showruns and executive produces Off Campus with Gina Fattore. Wyck Godfrey, Marty Bowen and James Seidman executive produce for Temple Hill. Leanna Billings of Billings Productions and Neal Flaherty also serve as executive producers.

Elle Kennedy, the creator of the Off Campus universe, is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of more than 50 contemporary fiction and romance novels. Her works have been translated into over 25 languages and sold over 10 million copies worldwide.

About Prime Video:

Prime Video is a one-stop entertainment destination offering customers a vast collection of premium programming in one application available across thousands of devices. On Prime Video, customers can find their favourite movies, series, documentaries, and live sports, including Prime Monday Night Hockey – also Amazon MGM Studios-produced series and movies Fallout, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Reacher, The Boys, and Roadhouse; licensed fan favourite Vampire Diaries; exclusive entertainment such as Prime Monday Night Hockey, ONE Championship; and programming from channels such as Sportsnet, Paramount+, Crave, Citytv+, STARZ, AMC+, Super Channel, BritBox, Hayu, STACKTV, a multi-channel service featuring 16 top-tier networks (Global, Food Network Canada, HGTV Canada, W Network, The HISTORY® Channel, Adult Swim, Lifetime, Slice, Showcase, National Geographic, Cartoon Network, Treehouse, YTV, Disney Channel, Disney Junior and Disney XD), via Prime Video Channels add-on subscriptions. Prime Video is one benefit among many that provides savings, convenience, and entertainment as part of the Prime membership. All customers, regardless of whether they have a Prime membership or not, can rent or buy titles, including blockbusters such as Barbie and Oppenheimer, via the Prime Video Store. Customers can also go behind the scenes of their favourite movies and series with exclusive X-Ray access. For more info visit www.primevideo.com

#FIRSTLOOK: NATIONAL FILM BOARD OF CANADA PRESENT 7 SHORTS HONOURING 2026 GOVERNOR GENERAL’S PERFORMING ARTS AWARDS HONOUREES

For the 18th year, the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) is bringing together filmmakers, producers and creative teams from across the country to create short cinematic tributes to Canadian performing arts legends, as the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards (GGPAA) gets set to honour seven new laureates.

The 2026 laureates are Susan Benson, James Cameron, Sylvain Émard, Daniel Lavoie and Tonya Williams, all recipients of the Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award. They’re joined by Barbara Hannigan (National Arts Centre Award) and Sae Hoon (Stan) Chung (Ramon John Hnatyshyn Award for Voluntarism in the Performing Arts).

This year’s films are directed by Jennifer Chiu, Dana Claxton, Tara Johns, Kevin McIntyre and Yasmine Mathurin, and produced by Christine Aubé, Niki Little, Teri Snelgrove and Robert Vroom at NFB production units across the country.

The finished films will premiere at the GGPAA Show on June 6, 2026, at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, and simultaneously online on NFB platforms and Apple TV. The films will also be available after June 6 on CBC Gem and ICI TOU.TV—giving all Canadians the opportunity to take part in this unique celebration of performing arts excellence.

“At a time when the country is looking for great homegrown stories and Canadians who lead and inspire, the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards has given us another remarkable group of laureates to celebrate. The NFB is proud to have been part of the GGPAA since 2008, honouring these individuals in film portraits that are cinematic gems in their own right. The NFB’s growing GGPAA collection is a precious legacy we’re committed to sharing with all Canadians, now and in the years to come,” said Suzanne Guèvremont, Government Film Commissioner and NFB Chairperson.

To watch the NFB’s GGPAA films free online, visit: nfb.ca/channels/governor_generals_awards.

About the films

Three laureates will be honoured in short films directed by Kevin McIntyre and produced for the NFB by Christine Aubé:

Dancer, choreographer and teacher Sylvain Émard (Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award);
Singer–songwriter, performer and poet Daniel Lavoie, O.C. (Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award);

Soprano and conductor Barbara Hannigan, C.M. (National Arts Centre Award)
While music is Acadian artist Kevin McIntyre’s preferred outlet for creative expression, his rich and vibrant career also encompasses writing and design as well as film editing and directing. Kevin’s experience in creative production is wide-ranging: three solo albums, his role as a member of the band Salebarbes and several years as a camera operator, editor and producer with CBC/Radio-Canada Television in the Maritimes.

Set and costume designer and painter Susan Benson, C.M., is a Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award laureate, profiled by Jennifer Chiu in a film produced by Teri Snelgrove.

Jennifer Chiu is a writer, director, producer and researcher living in Vancouver whose debut documentary feature, Clan of the Painted Lady, premiered in the fall of 2025. She has a decade of experience researching and developing series and feature documentaries for film and television. In 2022, she was nominated for the Barbara Sears Award for Best Editorial Research at the Canadian Screen Awards.

Filmmaker, explorer, inventor and environmental entrepreneur James Cameron, C.C., a Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award laureate, steps in front of the camera in a film tribute by Tara Johns, produced by Robert Vroom.

Tara Johns is an Alberta-born writer-director based in Montreal. Her debut short film, Killing Time, won the Best Canadian Short award at the Worldwide Short Film Festival in Toronto. Her first feature, The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom, has garnered awards and acclaim. Tara is now in development on the feature film project Good Bones, with Palomar Films.

Screen actor and producer, arts executive and activist Tonya Williams, O.C., is a Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award laureate and the focus of a short by Yasmine Mathurin, produced by Niki Little.
Yasmine Mathurin is a Haitian-Canadian filmmaker whose debut feature doc, One of Ours, won the Special Jury Prize at Hot Docs and earned three Canadian Screen Award nominations. The producer of acclaimed CBC podcasts like The Shadows and Tai Asks Why, Yasmine received the TIFF–CBC Films Screenwriter Award for her fiction debut, now in development.

Ramon John Hnatyshyn Award for Voluntarism in the Performing Arts recipient Sae Hoon (Stan) Chung is celebrated by Dana Claxton in a film produced by Niki Little.
Dana Claxton is a member of Wood Mountain Lakota First Nations, located in Saskatchewan, who currently resides in Vancouver. An acclaimed multidisciplinary artist, Dana investigates Indigenous beauty, the body, and sociopolitical and spiritual themes in her work. Her honours include the Hnatyshyn Foundation Visual Arts Award and Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts.

#FIRSTLOOK: “THE PINK PILL: SEX, DRUGS & WHO HAS CONTROL” NEW TRAILER

Paramount+ announced today that breakout documentary THE PINK PILL: SEX, DRUGS & WHO HAS CONTROL will premiere in Canada and the U.S. on March 6, ahead of International Women’s Day (March 8). Celebrating powerful storytelling about women by women, the bold and boundary-pushing film examines the cultural, scientific, and political battle behind the first United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health Canada-approved treatment for women’s sexual desire.

At its center is Cindy Eckert, entrepreneur and women’s health advocate, whose trademark pink and fearless determination made her a lightning rod in the battle to bring Addyi— which the media dubbed “female Viagra”—to market. Eckert confronted gender bias head-on, ultimately winning approval for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women in 2015. This past December, the FDA expanded its approval to include postmenopausal women under 65.

The Paramount+ Original THE PINK PILL is directed by award-winning Canadian filmmaker Aisling Chin-Yee (No Ordinary Man, The Rest of Us, Plan B) and produced by Catalyst and Everywoman Studios. Executive Producers are Julie Bristow (Catalyst), Abby Greensfelder (Everywoman Studios), Vibika Bianchi, Aisling Chin-Yee and Joanna Griffiths (Knix). Writers are Chin-Yee and Steve Taylor, who also serves as editor. Director of Photography is Nina Djacic. The film marks the first project from Docs for Change, a collaboration between Catalyst, the Toronto-based studio for woman-identifying creators, and Knix Fund, a philanthropic arm of the game-changing intimates brand Knix.

“Medical sexism knows no borders,” said Chin-Yee. “As a Canadian filmmaker, I had the opportunity to shine a rare spotlight on desire, the reclamation of pleasure, and bodily autonomy. This film confronts both cultural and institutional gender bias. My hope is that it sparks meaningful conversations and momentum around how our health is valued and prioritized.”

“THE PINK PILL: SEX, DRUGS & WHO HAS CONTROL” has already drawn widespread critical praise. DOC NYC, where the film premiered last fall, hailed it as “witty, urgent, and illuminating” and awarded the film the Audience Award, underscoring how deeply this subject matter resonates with audiences. The Alliance of Women Film Journalists called it “an engaging, educational documentary with a lot of interesting layers,” while ArtsFuse noted that “the film’s brazen, Barbie-ized motif sets it apart in the grey solemnity of documentaries.” To date, the documentary has received coverage in The New York Times, People, ELLE, Fast Company, and more.

“Being a part of this film is exactly why I founded Knix 13 years ago – to connect with women from all different walks of life and start conversations that make an impact,” said Griffiths. “We want our customers to know we are advocating for them, and we are thrilled to bring this project to the masses.”

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About Paramount, a Skydance Corporation

Paramount, a Skydance Corporation (Nasdaq: PSKY) is a leading, next‑generation global media and entertainment company, comprised of three business segments: Studios, Direct-to-Consumer, and TV Media. The Company’s portfolio unites legendary brands, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Television, CBS – America’s most-watched broadcast network, CBS News, CBS Sports, Nickelodeon, MTV, BET, Comedy Central, SHOWTIME®, Paramount+, Pluto TV, and Skydance’s Animation, Film, Television, Interactive/Games, and Sports divisions. For more information, please visit www.paramount.com.

Follow @thepinkpillfilm on Instagram and visit www.thepinkpillfilm.com for the latest news, exclusive content and more. For more information about Paramount+, please visit www.paramountplus.com and follow @ParamountPlusCA on social media.

#FIRSTLOOK: CLAUDE MONET: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE COMING TO TORONTO

The vibrant and dreamlike world of Claude Monet is coming to life in the groundbreaking exhibition, Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience. Making its Canadian debut on February 26, 2026 at YZD, Monet’s breathtaking artworks are transformed into living experiences through cutting-edge technology. Organized by global curator, producer, and distributor, Exhibition Hub, and in association with leading tech discovery platform, Fever, the experience invites visitors to learn more about the pioneering impressionist and enjoy over 300 of his iconic masterpieces like never before.

“Monet was a visionary of Impressionism, whose influence continues to shape and define modern art,” says Annie-Lou St-Amant, regional manager, Fever Originals Canada. “Some of his most captivating paintings are brought to life through stunning 4K digital mapping, transforming them into living, interactive works of art. It allows audiences to step inside his world and experience his vision in an entirely new way.”

Spanning more than 20,000 square feet, the exhibition is a fully immersive digital art experience, featuring enchanting light and sound projections, a visually captivating virtual reality journey, and interactive discovery spaces that explore the life and legacy of this legendary artist.

“This marks the first opportunity for Toronto audiences to experience Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience”, says Hamza El Azhar, CEO of Exhibition Hub. “We pride ourselves on creating exceptional experiences, and by combining innovative technology with powerful storytelling, we’re confident audiences will be captivated.”

Exhibition Hub has produced several immersive experiences in Toronto, including Bubble Planet, Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, and Dinos Alive Experience, collectively welcoming over half a million visitors across the city. Building on this success, the producer continues to set new standards for immersive, technology-driven cultural experiences.

Following successful runs across Europe and the United States, the exhibition now invites Toronto audiences to experience Monet’s most celebrated works—Water Lilies, Impression, Sunrise, and more—through a series of immersive and interactive environments. Highlights include a life-sized replica of Monet’s painting studio, a walk-through installation inspired by the Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies series where visitors can step onto the iconic bridge, and hands-on elements such as a “Sketch and Post” area. The experience also debuts two innovative technology rooms: Fog & Seasons, exploring how light and atmosphere transform perception, and Shadows of Light, an interactive space that brings Impressionist colour theory to life through dynamic, multi-coloured shadows.

Information and Tickets:

Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience will be open for a limited time, starting on February 26, 2026, at YZD, 30 Hanover Road, Toronto.

For further information and to purchase tickets, please visit: https://monetexpo.com/toronto/. Adult admission starts at $32.90, and children’s admission starts at $24.90 with timed-entry tickets. Follow along on social media via Instagram and Facebook, and use #MonetImmersiveExperience to join the conversation. YZD is located at 30 Hanover Road in Toronto.

About Exhibition Hub

European producer and distributor of major exhibitions worldwide, Exhibition Hub offers edutainment in a world where digital experiences shape people’s interactions and perceptions. The art of storytelling has evolved into immersive journeys that captivate, educate, and inspire. Exhibition Hub stands at the forefront of this transformation, setting new benchmarks for what it means to engage audiences through immersive exhibitions. Since its inception in 2015, Exhibition Hub has embarked on a mission to push the boundaries of edutainment. With over 350 experiences – Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, Bubble Planet: An Immersive Experience, Titanic – An Immersive Voyage, Art of The Brick, and Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience, and many more – and over 45 million visitors worldwide, Exhibition Hub’s impact is undeniable. Exhibition Hub combines the flawless integration of in-depth research, elegant design, and cutting-edge technologies. Each experience is meticulously crafted to be interactive, engaging, and deeply memorable, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.

About Fever

Fever is the world’s leading tech platform for discovering culture and live entertainment, inspiring over 300 million people last year to discover the best experiences in over 40 countries. With a mission to democratize access to culture and entertainment in real life, Fever inspires users to enjoy unique experiences and events —from immersive exhibitions and sports to interactive theatrical performances, concerts, and festivals— while empowering its partners with data and technology to develop and expand new experiences worldwide.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Betting: Canada’s Home Turf Advantage

FIFA World Cup 2026: The Ultimate Betting Guide for Canada’s Historic Tournament

The wait is almost over. In June 2026, the FIFA World Cup will arrive on Canadian soil, with matches set to ignite crowds at Toronto’s BMO Field and Vancouver’s BC Place. For soccer fans and sports bettors across the country, this isn’t just a tournament—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness and wager on the world’s biggest sporting event from home. Loto-Québec Canada is at the forefront of this excitement, offering comprehensive markets and expert odds for all 104 matches.

Stay updated on the latest tournament odds and match previews at Loto-Québec Canada.

Canada’s Path to Glory: Group Stage Insights

As one of the host nations, Canada’s Men’s National Team is poised to make a statement in Group B. With the opener scheduled for June 12, 2026, in Toronto, the energy is palpable. Bettors are already looking at “Group Winner” and “To Qualify” markets, especially with Canada facing off against teams like Switzerland and Qatar.

Key dates for your betting calendar:

• June 12: Canada vs. UEFA Playoff Winner (Toronto) – The historic home debut.
• June 18: Canada vs. Qatar (Vancouver) – A crucial mid-group clash.
• June 24: Canada vs. Switzerland (Vancouver) – Potential decider for the top spot.

World Cup Betting Bonuses and Free Plays

To celebrate this historic event, specialized promotional offers are rolling out. Whether you’re a seasoned tactical bettor or a casual fan, using a World Cup Promo can significantly enhance your experience. These offers typically include risk-free bets on Canada’s matches or “Early Bird” odds boosts for the Golden Boot winner.

For the most current list of tournament-specific incentives, check the lotto quebec app page. During the tournament, look out for “Daily Specials” that coincide with the triple-header matchdays.

Top Betting Markets for 2026

With 48 teams competing for the first time, the 2026 World Cup offers more betting variety than ever before. Beyond the traditional “Match Winner” (1X2) bets, Mise-o-jeu+ users are focusing on:

Market Type	Strategy Focus
Player Props	Wager on stars like Alphonso Davies or Jonathan David to score or assist.
Asian Handicaps	Ideal for balancing odds in matches between global giants and tournament debutants.
Live In-Play	React to the speed of the game with real-time odds updates during the 90 minutes.

Host City Fever: Toronto and Vancouver

For those attending the games in person or watching at official Fan Fests, mobile betting via Loto-Québec Canada provides a seamless way to stay engaged. The “Second Chance” draws are also expected to feature World Cup-themed prizes, including authentic jerseys and VIP match experiences.

Tournament Fact:

 The 2026 World Cup is the first to be hosted by three nations (Canada, USA, Mexico), making travel and climate factors a key variable in sports analytics this summer.

 

The 2026 World Cup is more than a game—it’s a cultural milestone for Canada. By combining expert predictions with the rewards found at the Loto-Québec bonus hub, you can be part of the action in every sense. Bet smart, enjoy the atmosphere, and let’s cheer on Les Rouges!

#FIRSTLOOK: “RENTAL FAMILY” ARRIVES FEBRUARY 18, 2026 ON HULU ON DISNEY+

Discover a heartfelt story of empathy and human connection when Searchlight Pictures’ Rental Family begins streaming on Hulu on Disney+ on February 18, 2026.

Set in modern-day Tokyo, Rental Family stars Academy Awards®–winning Brendan Fraser as a once-promising American actor searching for purpose and belonging in a society where he feels increasingly adrift. An unexpected acting call leads him to a “rental family” agency, where he is hired to step into surrogate roles for strangers seeking connection. As performance blurs into reality, the experience awakens his empathy and compassion, drawing him deeply into his clients’ lives and pulling him off-script whenever his heart takes over.

Searchlight Pictures’ Rental Family from HIKARI has captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike. Following its World Premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, it went on to win numerous festival audience awards including at the Chicago, Woodstock, Middleburg, Hawaii and Heartland Film Festivals. The film was praised as “universally resonant” (Clayton Davis, Variety) and “poignant and humorous” (Frank Scheck, The Hollywood Reporter). It is Rotten Tomatoes® Verified Hot with a 96% Popcornmeter score and holds an 88% Certified Fresh Tomatometer rating from critics.

Directed, co-written and produced by HIKARI, Rental Family also stars Emmy® nominee Takehiro Hira, Mari Yamamoto, newcomer Shannon Mahina Gorman, who was nominated for a CCA Award for her performance in the film, and iconic actor Akira Emoto. With a screenplay by HIKARI and Stephen Blahut, the film is produced by Sight Unseen Pictures’ Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev, as well as Knockonwood’s Shin Yamaguchi.

Film Synopsis
Set in modern-day Tokyo, Rental Family follows an American actor (Brendan Fraser) who struggles to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig: working for a Japanese “rental family” agency, playing stand-in roles for strangers. As he immerses himself in his clients’ worlds, he begins to form genuine bonds that blur the lines between performance and reality. Confronting the moral complexities of his work, he rediscovers purpose, belonging, and the quiet beauty of human connection.