The world’s most influential name in live comedy, The Second City is proud to announce the new Mainstage ensemble and creative team for their 91st revue. This dynamic brand-new cast making their Mainstage debut at The Second City Toronto includes Gillian Bartolucci, Tim Blair, Monica Garrido Huerta, Antony Hall, Chelsea Larkin, and Gavin Pounds.

Returning to the Mainstage to direct his second Second City Mainstage production is Kyle Dooley, Matt Keevins returns as Stage Manager/Lighting Designer and Elise Wattman returns as Music Director. Jillian Welsh joins the creative team as Associate Director.

In the time-honoured tradition of The Second City, audiences are invited inside, out of the cold, and into the creative process. Beginning on January 13, 2026, for a limited run, audiences have a rare glimpse into the creative heartbeat of The Second City Toronto. A new revue is created live onstage, with audience input and energy helping shape the scenes, songs, and characters of the 91st Mainstage Revue. It’s an inside look at how comedy has always been created on the same Toronto stage that has launched generations of iconic performers.

The Second City Mainstage Comedy runs Tuesday – Thursday 8pm, Friday – Saturday at 7pm and 10pm, and Sundays at 7pm. The Second City Comedy Theatre is located at 110 Harbour St.. Tickets start at $19.59 and can be purchased at The Second City Box Office, by phone at 416-343-0011, or online at www.secondcity.com.

Meet The Artists

GILLIAN BARTOLUCCI (Cast) she/her – Gillian Bartolucci is a comedian, actor, and CSA-nominated writer. She has written for CBC’s This Hour Has 22 Minutes, showcased for JFL42 New Faces: Characters, and currently performs with the Second City Toronto. Her past solo revues have received critical acclaim, including Best in Venue at the 2022 Hamilton Fringe Festival for Something Small, Something Sweet, and she was nominated for Best Solo Performance by My Entertainment World for The Weight of It All.

TIM BLAIR (Cast) he/him – Tim Blair is a comedian and founding member of the acclaimed comedy troupe, TallBoyz II Men. Together with Bruce McCulloch from Kids In The Hall, they created the multiple Canadian Screen Award-winning sketch show, TallBoyz. A seasoned live performer, Tim excels in stand-up, sketch, and improv. He’s an alumnus of Second City’s House Co. and has showcased his talent at festivals like Just for Laughs Toronto and the NBC Breakout Festival in Chicago.

MONICA GARRIDO HUERTA (Cast) she/her – Monica Garrido Huerta is a Dora-nominated bilingual Artist, and new Canadian from Monterrey, Nuevo Leõn, based in Toronto. Her short films premiered at the InsideOut LGBT Film Festival. Her solo show The Cunning Linguist was created at Emerging Creator Unit at Buddies In Bad Times Theatre and won the 2016 Queer Acts Audience Award. It was adapted as an Audio Show for Aluna Theatre’s Studio Series and is currently in development. Monica has appeared in commercials, music videos, and TV shows such as Baroness Von Sketch Show and The Horror of Dolores Roach. She’s part of the ensemble of the Canadian Comedy Award-winning show Sketch Comedy Extravaganza Eleganza. Monica is the 2018 recipient of the Queer Emerging Artist Award at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. Her stage work includes: Private Eyes (lemonTree Creations), Youth/Elder project (Buddies in Bad Times), The Second City’s Guide to Surviving the Holidays (Second City Toronto), Universal Child Care (Quote Unquote Collective), El Terremoto (Tarragon Theatre). She is one-third of the Latine Drag King boy band Boyband the Boyband.

ANTONY HALL (Cast) he/him – Antony Hall is a Toronto-based Chinese-Canadian improviser/actor who originally hails from Lethbridge, Alberta. He is a graduate of The Second City Conservatory and Theatre Arts Program at MacEwan University. He can be seen performing on various improv shows in the city and is a member of the Sketch Comedy team $20Sandwich, which has amassed millions of views on Instagram and TikTok. As an actor, Antony has appeared in many national commercial campaigns and on shows like Run the Burbs and Law & Order: Toronto. Antony is also a writer and co-creator of the short-form digital series Ming’s Dynasty, which is inspired by his life growing up in small-town Alberta and incorporates his comedy-rap persona, Young Riesling. Follow his work on Instagram @hallandjokes and @20dollarsandwich

CHELSEA LARKIN (Cast) she/her – Chelsea Larkin is an actress, comedian, writer and singer. Some of Chelsea’s favourite comedy credits include Just For Laughs- New Faces: Characters, her multi-award-winning solo show at the Toronto Fringe Fest, The Chels Stands Alone, CTV’s Children Ruin Everything, and OMNI TV’s Abroad.

GAVIN POUNDS (Cast) he/him – Gavin Pounds is a comedian and actor originally from Barrie, Ontario. Gavin has appeared in tv shows The Boys and The Umbrella Academy and the 2024 film The Apprentice. He can be found performing improv & sketch comedy in Toronto.

KYLE DOOLEY (Director) he/him – Kyle Dooley is an actor and writer who got his start with the multiple Canadian Comedy Award winning sketch troupe Picnicface. After millions of YouTube hits, touring the country with live shows and festivals like Just for Laughs and getting praise from the likes of Will Ferrell and Adam McKay on Funnyordie.com, Picnicface got its own TV show on the Comedy Network. As a writer, Kyle has contributed sketch comedy to TripTank (Comedy Central), The Irrelevant Show (CBC Radio), and he was a cast member of four Mainstage Revues at The Second City Toronto. Kyle also writes and acts for children’s and adult animation, including Gary and His Demons (Amazon Prime, Comedy Central UK), Cupcake & Dino: General Services (Netflix) and Ollie’s Pack (Nickelodeon). Kyle also wrote and acted on the hit preschool show Miss Persona (Treehouse), which was nominated for a daytime Emmy. You can hear him playing a goofy robot on the upcoming season of Paw Patrol.

MATT KEEVINS (Stage Manager) he/him – Matt Keevins is a stage manager who specializes in improv and sketch comedy. Select credits include The Weight of It All (Toronto Fringe), An Evening with Devon and Jackie (Toronto Fringe), Something Small, Something Sweet (Hamilton Fringe), Come Here Often? (Buddies in Bad Times). He’s worked as a theatre tech at Comedy Bar, The Second City Training Centre, and has understudied Mainstage and Tourco.

ELISE WATTMAN (Music Director) she/her – Elise Wattman is a Grammy-nominated composer and pianist who specializes in audio design for visual media. As Audio Lead for Jackbox Games, Elise created the music & sound for Let Me Finish, TimeJinx, Junktopia and Weapons Drawn. Elise has toured internationally on keyboards and her favourite venue is Preservation Hall in New Orleans. Elise served as Music Director for Second City Chicago e.t.c’s 44th revue, She the People San Diego, Deck the Hallmark Chicago, America It’s Complicated at the Kennedy Center, DC. For her work accompanying modern dance performance, Elise designed a patented digital module for live scoring.

JILLIAN WELSH (Assistant Director) she/her – Jillian Welsh is a Canadian Comedy Award winning writer/performer, a Dora nominated actor and an expert at setting microwaves on fire. TV credits include Run The Burbs, Abroad, Working Moms, TallBoyz and Baroness Von Sketch Show. Her real-life stories can be found on This American Life, RISK! and CBC’s Love Me. She was also a writer for Backyard Beats on TVO Kids. Follow her @jillianLwelsh across all platforms.

About The Second City

The Second City first brought its iconic improv and sketch comedy to Toronto in 1963 for a week of performances at the Royal Alexandra Theatre. After a decade of sold out shows at the 1200-seat theatre, The Second City established a permanent home in the city with the opening of “The Old Firehall” on Lombard Street. In 1976, The Second City Toronto further solidified its place in comedy history by creating the groundbreaking television show SCTV.

In December 2022, The Second City began an exciting new chapter by relocating to its state-of-the-art facility at One York Street. This move introduced three distinct theatres: The Mainstage, Theatre ’73, and The John Candy Box Theatre, each offering nightly performances that continue The Second City’s tradition of bringing laughter to audiences.

Since making a home in Toronto over 50 years ago The Second City has grown to become the most influential name in comedy launching the careers of countless Canadian comedy legends. Our illustrious alumni list includes names such as Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy, Martin Short, Gilda Radner, Dan Aykroyd, John Candy, Mike Myers, Colin Mochrie, Bob Martin, Jerry Minor, Gavin Crawford, Kevin Vidal, Darryl Hinds, Chris Wilson, Lauren Ash, Ann Pornel, Alan Shane Lewis and so many more.

For more information on The Second City, visit www.secondcity.com and follow The Second City on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.

The TARO Group has been selected as the exclusive Canadian publicity agency of record for BritBox, the premium British streaming service.

Beginning January 2026, The TARO Group will manage and oversee strategic communications and publicity efforts in Canada, supporting BritBox’s continued growth and engagement with Canadian audiences who have a deep affinity for British storytelling, television, and culture.

“We are thrilled to partner with the BritBox team to amplify their presence in Canada and support their next phase of growth in this market,” said Robyn Mogil, Co-Founder, The TARO Group.

Known for its expansive catalogue of critically acclaimed British series, originals, and iconic programming, BritBox continues to resonate with viewers seeking premium, culturally rich content.

“BritBox is a premium global brand with a highly engaged audience, and we’re excited to shape its cultural presence in Canada through audience-first storytelling,” said Tamar Gibbert, Co-Founder, The TARO Group.

This appointment builds on The TARO Group’s reputation as a trusted communications partner for global entertainment brands and streaming platforms growing their presence in Canada.

About BritBox
BritBox is the leading streaming destination for the best of British television, offering an unmatched collection of expertly curated entertainment. From critically acclaimed dramas and mysteries to comedies, documentaries, and lifestyle programming, BritBox invites audiences to step out of their everyday and into a world of exceptional British storytelling. Launched in 2017 and now owned by BBC Studios, BritBox is available in the US, Canada, Australia, and the Nordics. For more, visit britbox.com, or find the BritBox app on most mobile and connected TV devices.

About The TARO Group
The TARO Group is a premier, full-service communications agency operating at the intersection of culture and commerce, with a specialization in the arts and entertainment sectors. Now in its second decade of operation, the agency draws on a diverse team to deliver thoughtful, forward-looking strategies and high-impact campaigns for some of Canada’s leading film and television studios, distributors, and cultural organizations.By integrating traditional media relations with social and digital storytelling, social impact strategies, and data-driven analysis, The TARO Group ensures each narrative reaches the right audience at the optimal moment. The agency is proud to serve as a trusted Canadian partner to a global roster of clients, including Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Prime Video Canada, Paramount Pictures, Elevation Pictures, and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. International, U.S., and Canadian clients return time and again to collaborate with a team recognized for its expertise, care, and results.

CBC have unveiled their upcoming 2026 Podcast programming slate.

-Two Blocks from the White House delivers a smart weekly debrief on the biggest political stories unfolding in the U.S. — and what they mean for Canadians — through the insight of CBC News’ most trusted and experienced correspondents in Washington (January 14).
-From the award-winning team behind Hunting Warhead — the 2019 podcast that documented the dismantling of a global dark-web child exploitation network — comes a timely new investigation: Hunting the Suicide Salesman (January 19).
-Sharing intimate first-person storytelling, Personally returns with Creation Myth, delving into the personal revelations of host Helena de Groot following her decision to not have children (February 10).
-Understood returns with Mr. Deepfakes, an investigation that goes beyond the headlines to trace the rise of the deepfake porn industry, the victims fighting back, and the global hunt for its Canadian kingpin (February 17).
-Investigative series Uncover continues with The Cult Queen of Canada, exposing the untold decades of turmoil in the town of Richmound, SK and the trail of destruction brought about by the self-proclaimed “Queen of Canada,” Romana Didulo (February 23).
-Someone Knows Something returns with Season 10, as host David Ridgen investigates the mysterious disappearance of Jaclyn Ferland-Smith, a Canadian woman living in Costa Rica (March 9).

CBC, the #1 Canadian podcaster, is launching a new winter slate of original podcasts, featuring in-depth investigations, candid personal revelations, and informed debriefs on the biggest stories in politics. CBC’s entire podcast collection can be found on CBC Listen and everywhere podcasts are available. Select titles can also be streamed on YouTube.

Today, Prime Video released the official trailer and key art for the upcoming smart heist thriller, Steal, starring Sophie Turner (Game of Thrones, The Staircase), Jacob Fortune-Lloyd (Bodies, The Queen’s Gambit), and Archie Madekwe (Saltburn, Gran Turismo). All six episodes will be available on January 21, 2026, exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

Steal is a contemporary, high-octane thriller about the heist of the century and the ordinary office worker, Zara (Sophie Turner), who finds herself at the heart of it. A typical work day at a pension fund investment company, Lochmill Capital, is upended when a gang of violent thieves burst in and force Zara and her best mate Luke (Archie Madekwe) to execute their demands. But who would steal billions of pounds of ordinary people’s pensions and why? DCI Rhys (Jacob Fortune-Lloyd) is determined to find out, but as a recently relapsed gambling addict, Rhys must keep his own money problems at bay while dealing with the secret agendas and competing interests at the center of this far-reaching crime.

The series comes from executive producers Greg Brenman and Rebecca de Souza, producer Nuala O’Leary, and directors Sam Miller and Hettie MacDonald, and is created and written by Sotiris Nikias. Amazon MGM Studios is producing alongside Drama Republic.

About Drama Republic:

Established in 2013, Drama Republic hit the ground running with multi-award winning Doctor Foster and The Honourable Woman. Drama Republic went on to produce Wanderlust (BBC One), Black Earth Rising (BBC 2 / Netflix), series two of Doctor Foster, Pure (Channel 4), Mike Bartlett’s Life (BBC One) and the adaptation of David Nicholls’ bestselling novel Us (BBC One). 2021 saw the release of the Netflix Original series The Irregulars by Tom Bidwell. More recently the company produced The Confessions of Frannie Langton (ITV), David Ireland’s The Lovers (Sky), Hugo Blick’s The English starring Emily Blunt and Chaske Spencer for BBC/Amazon, Nicole Taylor’s adaptation of David Nicholls’ global bestseller One Day for Netflix, Sally Wainwright’s Riot Women (BBC/Britbox) and Hugo Blick’s upcoming series California Ave (BBC). In July 2021, Drama Republic joined Mediawan, a leading European studio producing premium content in all genres.

About Prime Video:

Prime Video is a first-stop entertainment destination offering customers a vast collection of premium programming in one app available across thousands of devices. On Prime Video, customers can customize their viewing experience and find their favorite movies, series, documentaries, and live sports – including Amazon MGM Studios-produced series and movies Red One, Road House, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Fallout, Reacher, The Boys, Cross, and The Idea of You; licensed fan favorites; Prime member exclusive access to coverage of live sports including Thursday Night Football, WNBA, and NWSL, and acclaimed sports documentaries including Bye Bye Barry and Kelce; and programming from Apple TV+, Max, Crunchyroll and MGM+ via Prime Video add-on subscriptions, as well as more than 500 free ad-supported (FAST) Channels. Prime members in the U.S. can share a variety of benefits, including Prime Video, by using Amazon Household. 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 via the Prime Video Store, and can enjoy even more content for free with ads. Customers can also go behind the scenes of their favorite movies and series with exclusive X-Ray access. For more info visit www.amazon.com/primevideo.

Netflix have announced their upcoming full 2026 slate of programming ahead. The full slate can be found below, but please note, this list is not comprehensive to all titles launching in 2026, select title announcements will come later in the year.

In addition to announcing the slate, Netflix invites fans to discover “What Next?” via a global asset debut that utilizes tarot cards to tease new and returning Netflix titles coming in the new year and an interactive experience on Tudum.com.

Fans who are in New York and want to engage with this experience in real life can head to Grand Central Station on January 12-13, 2026 to get a first-of-its-kind tarot reading by a 12-foot booth featuring an animatronic of Teyana Taylor, in the role of a tarot reader, which will offer personalized readings to fans curious about their Netflix future.

NEWS FROM SERIES

AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER S2
On Netflix 2026 | Scripted Series NEW EXCLUSIVE PHOTO
A live-action reimagining of the beloved animated series following Aang, the young Avatar, as he learns to master the four elements (Water, Earth, Fire, Air) to restore balance to a world threatened by the terrifying Fire Nation. In S2, after a bittersweet victory saving the Northern Water Tribe from the invading Fire Nation, Avatar Aang, Katara and Sokka regroup and set off on a mission to convince the elusive Earth King to aid in their battle against fearsome Fire Lord Ozai.

EP/WRITER: Christine Boylan
EP/DIRECTOR: Jabbar Raisani
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Dan Lin, Ryan Halprin, Brendan Ferguson and Albert Kim
KEY CAST: Gordon Cormier, Kiawentiio, Ian Ousley, Dallas Liu, Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, Elizabeth Yu, Miya Cech, Momona Tamada, with Daniel Dae Kim, Maria Zhang and Chin Han

BEEF S2
On Netflix April 16, 2026 | Scripted Series DATE ANNOUNCEMENT
A young couple witnesses an alarming fight between their boss and his wife, triggering chess moves of favors and coercion in the elitist world of a country club and its Korean billionaire owner.

CREATOR/SHOWRUNNER: Lee Sung Jin
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Lee Sung Jin, Jake Schreier, Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Carey Mulligan, Oscar Isaac, Charles Melton and Cailee Spaeny
STUDIO: A24
CAST: Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, Cailee Spaeny, Seoyeon Jang, Youn Yuh-jung, Song Kang-Ho, William Fichtner, Mikaela Hoover, BM

BRIDGERTON S4
Part 1 On Netflix January 29, 2026 | Part 2 On Netflix February 26, 2026 | Scripted Series
NEW EXCLUSIVE PHOTO
The fourth season of Bridgerton turns its focus to bohemian second son Benedict (Luke Thompson). Despite his elder and younger brothers both being happily married, Benedict is loath to settle down — until he meets a captivating Lady in Silver at his mother’s masquerade ball.

SHOWRUNNER: Jess Brownell
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Shonda Rhimes, Betsy Beers, Tom Verica, and Chris Van Dusen
CAST: Luke Thompson (Benedict Bridgerton), Yerin Ha (Sophie Baek), Jonathan Bailey (Anthony Bridgerton), Victor Alli (Lord John Stirling), Adjoa Andoh (Lady Danbury), Julie Andrews (Lady Whistledown), Lorraine Ashbourne (Mrs. Varley), Masali Baduza (Michaela Stirling), Nicola Coughlan (Penelope Bridgerton), Hannah Dodd (Francesca Stirling), Daniel Francis (Lord Marcus Anderson), Ruth Gemmell (Violet Bridgerton), Florence Hunt (Hyacinth Bridgerton), Martins Imhangbe (Will Mondrich), Claudia Jessie (Eloise Bridgerton), Luke Newton (Colin Bridgerton), Golda Rosheuvel (Queen Charlotte), Will Tilston (Gregory Bridgerton), Polly Walker (Portia Featherington), Emma Naomi (Alice Mondrich), Hugh Sachs (Brimsley), Kate Bridgerton (Simone Ashley), Isabella Wei (Posy Li), Michelle Mao (Rosamund Li), and Katie Leung (Lady Araminta Gun)

MAN ON FIRE
On Netflix 2026 | Scripted Series SNEAK PEEK PHOTO
Based on A.J. Quinnell’s book series, Man on Fire tells the story of John Creasy. Once a high-functioning and skilled Special Forces Mercenary, known for surviving even the most desolate of situations, Creasy is now plagued with intense PTSD. Determined to overcome his personal demons, he sets out on a path to redemption. But, before he can adjust to this new life, he finds himself back in the fire, fighting harder than ever.

DIRECTOR: Steven Caple Jr. (Episodes 1-2)
WRITER/SHOWRUNNER: Kyle Killen
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Arnon Milchan, Yariv Milchan, and Natalie Lehmann for New Regency Productions. Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, and Tracey Cook for Chernin Entertainment. Kyle Killen and Scott Pennington for Chapter Eleven. Steven Caple Jr., Ed McDonnell, Michael Polaire, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II will also executive produce alongside Stacy Perskie who will executive produce for RedRum.
CAST: Yahya Abdul-Mateen ll, Billie Boullet, Bobby Cannavale, Alice Braga, Scoot McNairy, Paul Ben-Victor
FORMAT: 7 Episodes

SWEET MAGNOLIAS (SEASON 5)
On Netflix June 11, 2026 | Scripted Series DATE ANNOUNCEMENT + FIRST LOOK PHOTO
Sweet Magnolias follows lifelong best friends Maddie (JoAnna Garcia Swisher), Dana Sue (Brooke Elliott), and Helen (Heather Headley) as they juggle relationships, family, and careers in the charming small town of Serenity, SC and beyond.

SHOWRUNNER: Sheryl J. Anderson
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Sheryl J. Anderson, Dan Paulson, Matt Drake
PRODUCTION COMPANY: Daniel L. Paulson Productions
CAST: JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Heather Headley, Brooke Elliott

VIRGIN RIVER S7
On Netflix March 12, 2026 | Scripted Series DATE ANNOUNCEMENT + FIRST LOOK PHOTO
Virgin River is a romance story centered around nurse practitioner Melinda Monroe’s (Alexandra Breckenridge) move to the remote California town of Virgin River. Yearning for a fresh start, Monroe discovered that small-town living isn’t quite as simple as she expected and that she had to learn to heal herself before she could truly make Virgin River her home. The series is based on the New York Times bestseller and beloved Harlequin book series written by author Robyn Carr. The Virgin River collection features more than twenty books, and together they have sold more than 13 million copies. Virgin River was named to the HarperCollins 200 list, which celebrates 200 iconic books of the past 200 years.

SHOWRUNNER: Patrick Sean Smith
CAST: Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Colin Lawrence, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure

NEWS FROM FILM

ENOLA HOLMES 3
On Netflix Summer 2026 | Action-Mystery NEW SNEAK PEEK PHOTO
Adventure chases detective Enola Holmes to Malta, where personal and professional dreams collide on a case more tangled and treacherous than any she has faced before.

DIRECTOR: Philip Barantini
WRITER: Jack Thorne Based upon The Enola Holmes Mysteries book series by Nancy Springer
PRODUCERS: Mary Parent, Ali Mendes, Alex Garcia will produce for Legendary Entertainment. Millie Bobby Brown and Bobby Brown will produce for Brown’s production company PCMA Productions.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Jake Bongiovi and Isobel Richards for PCMA, Joshua Grode for Legendary, Michael Dreyer
KEY CAST: Millie Bobby Brown, Louis Partridge, Himesh Patel, Sharon Duncan-Brewster, with Henry Cavill, and Helena Bonham Carter

TYLER PERRY’S JOE’S COLLEGE ROAD TRIP
On Netflix February 13, 2026 | Comedy
In an effort to teach him about the real world, Joe takes B.J. on a cross-country college road trip where tensions get high but life-changing lessons are learned.

DIRECTOR: Tyler Perry
WRITER: Tyler Perry
PRODUCERS: Tyler Perry, Angi Bones
KEY CAST: Tyler Perry, Jermaine Harris, Amber Reign Smith

LITTLE BROTHER
On Netflix 2026 | Comedy FIRST LOOK PHOTO
A famous real estate agent’s carefully curated world is upended when his eccentric “little brother” unexpectedly reappears.

DIRECTOR: Matt Spicer
WRITERS: Jarrad Paul, Andrew Mogel
PRODUCERS: David Bernad for Middle Child Pictures, Ruben Fleischer
KEY CAST: John Cena, Eric Andre, Michelle Monaghan, Chris Meloni, Ego Nwodim, Sherry Cola, Caleb Hearon, Ben Ahlers, Bryce Gheisar, Pilot Bunch

REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES
On Netflix May 8, 2026 | Drama DATE ANNOUNCEMENT
Tova, an elderly widow, forms an unlikely friendship with the curmudgeonly Marcellus — a giant pacific octopus that lives at the aquarium where she works. Unbeknownst to Tova, Marcellus is on a mission to solve a mystery that will heal the widow’s heart and lead her to a life-changing discovery. Based on the best-selling book.

DIRECTOR: Olivia Newman
WRITER: Olivia Newman and John Whittington
PRODUCERS: Bryan Unkeless & Peter Craig for Night Owl, David Levine for Anonymous Content
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Alyssa Rodrigues for Night Owl, Tony Lipp for Anonymous Content, Erika Hampson, Olivia Newman, Shelby Van Pelt and Alisa Tager
KEY CAST: Sally Field, Lewis Pullman, Colm Meaney, Joan Chen, Kathy Baker, Beth Grant, Sofia Black D’Elia

SWAPPED (fka POOKOO)
On Netflix 2026 | Animated TRACY MORGAN AND CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER CASTING ANNOUNCEMENT + NEW IMAGES
A buddy comedy about a small woodland creature (voiced by Michael B. Jordan) and a majestic bird (voiced by Juno Temple) — natural sworn enemies of The Valley — who suddenly swap bodies and must team up (while walking in each other’s feathers and fur) to survive the wildest adventure of their lives.

DIRECTOR: Nathan Greno
PRODUCERS: John Lasseter, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Mary Ellen Bauder Andrews for Skydance Animation
STORY BY: John Whittington, Adam Karp, Christian Magalhaes & Robert Snow, Nathan Greno
SCREENPLAY BY: John Whittington and Christian Magalhaes & Robert Snow
MUSIC BY: Siddhartha Khosla
CAST: Michael B.

WAR MACHINE
On Netflix March 6, 2026 | Action / Sci-Fi RELEASE DATE ANNOUNCEMENT
During the final stage of US Army Ranger selection, an elite team’s training exercise turns into a fight for survival against an unimaginable threat.

DIRECTOR: Patrick Hughes
SCREENPLAY: Patrick Hughes, James Beaufort
PRODUCERS: Todd Lieberman and Alexander Young of Hidden Pictures, Patrick Hughes and Greg McLean of HUGE FILM, Rich Cook of Range.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Valerie Bleth Sharp
KEY CAST: Alan Ritchson, Dennis Quaid, Stephan James, Jai Courtney, Esai Morales, Blake Richardson, Keiynan Lonsdale, Daniel Webber

MEMORANDUM

SUBJECT: “SEND HELP” Tickets Now on Sale | New Trailer and Poster Available

TO: Whom It May Concern

FROM: Strategy and Planning

DATE: January 7, 2026

Team,

Flagging that tickets for the upcoming darkly comedic psychological thriller “SEND HELP” from director Sam Raimi and 20th Century Studios are now on sale. Additionally, a new trailer and poster are available. Please disseminate the news accordingly and circle back with any questions.

SUMMARY:

In “Send Help,” two colleagues become stranded on a deserted island, the only survivors of a plane crash. On the island, they must overcome past grievances and work together to survive, but ultimately, it’s an unsettling, darkly humorous battle of wills and wits to make it out alive. “Send Help” is directed by genre-bending visionary Sam Raimi and stars Oscar® nominee Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien. The film is produced by Raimi and Zainab Azizi, executive produced by JJ Hook and written by Damian Shannon & Mark Swift, with original music by Danny Elfman. The all-original darkly comedic psychological thriller from 20th Century Studios releases in theatres nationwide on January 30, 2026.

Sincerely,

Strategy and Planning

On February 6, Mimi Chinese will reopen with a refreshed dining room, an expanded menu, and an evolved point of view; marking the next chapter of a restaurant that first captured the city’s attention under the most unexpected circumstances. This next move is about that belief that longevity comes from growth, without losing sight of what made people fall in love in the first place.

Mimi opened in the fall of 2021, just as Toronto was opening up again. It was embraced by diners, critics, and the city at large during a moment when restaurants mattered more than ever. The early response was immediate and deeply felt, bringing accolades that were, and continue to be, a source of enormous pride for the team: three years on the Michelin Guide, Top 3 on Canada’s Best New Restaurants, Canada’s 100 Best and much more.

What the team is most proud of, though, is the people. More than 20 members of Mimi’s original staff are still here today, continuing to build the restaurant together as true founding members. That continuity has shaped not just the food, but the culture of the room, turning Mimi into a place defined by trust, warmth, and a strong sense of community.

The refreshed dining room leans into classic, old-school comfort. White tablecloths are introduced not as a move toward formality, but familiarity, while chrome details reference old-world dining design cues. The space is designed to welcome repeat visits; less about saving it for a special occasion, and more about returning often.

In addition to the new look, Mimi introduces a significantly expanded menu that deepens its focus on regional Chinese cooking while broadening its everyday appeal. New additions include a steak section featuring exclusively Canadian beef paired with Chinese sauces, soup (offered for the first time at Mimi), chili wontons, a pan-seared northern-style dumpling and lo mein alongside Mimi classics like shrimp toast and belt noodle.

The menu also creates room for special, pre-order offerings, including live crab, lobster, crispy-skinned duck, and a signature crispy chicken.

The relaunch begins with a ticketed reopening dinner on February 3, featuring a collaboration with Chef Mei Lin. Mimi Chinese will reopen to the public on February 6.

This next chapter of Mimi is not about reinvention for its own sake, but about staying power; evolving thoughtfully, honouring the people who built it, and continuing to serve a community that has been there since the beginning.

Notte Ristorante opens January 10, 2026 at 9 Church Street with a clear intention: to create a restaurant that fits naturally into how people actually spend their evenings. Some nights begin with a drink after work and turn into dinner. Others start around the table and stretch longer than planned. Notte Ristorante is designed to support that rhythm.

Notte Ristorante marks the evolution of Amano Trattoria and Bar Notte. The same kitchen, team, and culinary standards remain, now expressed through a more relaxed, evening-driven approach. Aperitivo and happy hour set the tone early, dinner anchors the night, and as the evening unfolds the room shifts subtly. Lights soften, music lifts, and the energy becomes more social without losing its warmth.

At a time when dining out feels more considered than ever and Canadians are careful when and where they spend their money, Notte is meant to feel easy. The experience is built around generosity and flow, encouraging guests to settle in, order another round, and enjoy the night without overthinking it.

“Notte reflects how people actually want to spend their nights right now,” says Executive Chef and co-owner Michael Angeloni. “You come in for a drink, order a few things to share, and before you know it, you’re deep into dinner. The food is comforting and indulgent, but the atmosphere stays relaxed. It’s meant to pull you in naturally and keep you there.”

A Modern Italian Point of View

The menu at Notte takes a modern Italian approach, drawing inspiration from regions across Italy from north to south while reflecting Chef Angeloni’s background and perspective. Classic preparations are handled with intention and confidence, woven together with locally sourced ingredients and subtle personal touches.

Everything is cooked from scratch in-house using the best ingredients the team can source. By avoiding pre-made products and unnecessary shortcuts, the kitchen maintains both quality and control, allowing the menu to remain thoughtful and generous without becoming inflated.

Menu Highlights Include:

The Salumi Bar – a live-action station anchoring the main bar featuring:

Chicken Liver Mousse & Treviso Jam ($14)
N’duja & Straciatella ($15)
Prosciutto Parma & Compressed Melon ($18)

Roman Style Pizzas – crafted over 72 hours, made with five types of flour and high hydration for a light and airy with a crisp finish:

Crazy Calabrese: smoked provolone, spicy sopressata, hot honey, arugula, black olives ($24)
Bologna Pride: zucchini, arugula, pistachio, honey, mortadella & stracciatella ($25)

Handmade pasta – made fresh in house daily:

Spaghetti Allo Scoglio: PEI mussels, Argentinian red shrimp, clams, pangrattato, parsley, chili, garlic ($26)
Campanelle Con Funghi: wild mushrooms, braised leeks, white wine, toasted walnuts, pecorino ($25)

Large format signature dishes – perfect for sharing:

12oz Bone-in Veal Parm: panko crusted veal, 40 clove tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, parm ($56); add ball of burrata (+$10)

A Bar Program Built on Balance

Notte’s bar program is guided by a simple belief: great drinks should feel inviting, not excessive. The cocktail list focuses on well-executed classics, the amaro selection is expansive, and the wine program aims to become one of the city’s best values for premium bottles by emphasizing thoughtful pricing intended to encourage another round and return visits.

Two daily happy hours from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. and later in the evening help frame the night, creating natural moments to drop in and stay a little longer. As the evening unfolds, the room takes on a more social, energetic pace while remaining grounded and welcoming.

Notte Ristorante also introduces the Notte Social Club, a complimentary membership designed to reward regulars with an even more generous experience. Benefits include complimentary bread service, late evening pricing on select dishes, including a $99 bistecca fiorentina, a 32oz T bone steak designed for sharing, and simple flat pricing across the amaro selection. The Social Club reflects Notte’s belief that hospitality should feel fair, welcoming, and personal. Membership is free and open to guests who want to be part of the rhythm of the room.

Independent, Involved, and Intentionally Personal

While Notte Ristorante brings a new energy to the space, it retains all that was loved about Amano. The same care, sourcing philosophy, and attention to detail carry through, now expressed through a more fluid evening experience.

Notte Ristorante is independently owned and operated, with its partners closely involved day to day. Chef Angeloni is in the kitchen nightly, shaping the food and the rhythm of service in real time.

“Amano was always a place people loved, but we saw room to let it evolve,” says co-owner Adam Teolis. “Notte Ristorante keeps the heart of Italian hospitality intact, with a stronger pulse and a more generous point of view. We wanted to create a place that still feels special and elevated, but without making guests feel priced out of enjoying the night fully. A place where guests feel comfortable ordering another drink, another dish, and coming back often.”

For more information and updates follow along @notte.ristorante.

Some highlights:

Amazon MGM Studios today announced the actors set to star in the new Prime Video series Tomb Raider. Newly revealed cast members include Sigourney Weaver, Jason Isaacs, Celia Imrie, Bill Paterson, and more.

The series is based on the iconic Tomb Raider video game franchise, which follows the adventures of world-famous archaeologist and adventurer Lara Croft.

“I’ve been a long-time fan of Tomb Raider and the character of Lara. She has always felt for me, very emboldened in a male dominated world. She’s a fierce female role model!” – Sophie Turner

“Tomb Raider boasts a plethora of iconic characters. I am thrilled to have been able to bring some personal and fan favourites to the screen while also introducing a few new rascals of our own to the mix. This cast is beyond my wildest dreams!” – Phoebe Waller-Bridge

“Tomb Raider has always been defined by bold storytelling and unforgettable characters, and these new cast members bring incredible depth and gravitas to the series. With talents like Sigourney Weaver and Jason Isaacs joining the ensemble, we’re elevating this world in exciting new ways, and can’t wait for our global Prime Video audience to experience this next chapter of Tomb Raider.” – Peter Friedlander, Head of Amazon MGM Studios

The following cast are confirmed in canon roles from the Tomb Raider video game franchise:

Martin Bobb-Semple is Zip

Zip is Lara Croft’s long-standing tech support and friend.

Jason Isaacs is Atlas DeMornay

Atlas is Lara’s uncle.

Bill Paterson is Winston

Winston is the long-standing Croft family butler.

The following cast are confirmed for roles to the Tomb Raider universe:

Jack Bannon is Gerry

Gerry is Lara’s personal pilot and snack collector.

John Heffernan is David

David is an exhausted government official who finds himself tangled up in Lara’s unusual world.

Celia Imrie is Francine

Francine is the Head of Advancement at the British Museum, focused solely on raising funds and glasses of champagne.

Paterson Joseph is Thomas Warner

Thomas Warner is a senior government official brought in to clean up an almighty mess.

Sasha Luss is Sasha

Sasha is a fierce, deeply competitive new adversary of Lara’s.

Juliette Motamed is Georgia

Georgia is a devoted, by-the-books curator at the British Museum, dedicated to the ‘proper’ preservation of history.

Sigourney Weaver is Evelyn Wallis

A mysterious, high-flying woman who is keen to exploit Lara’s talents.

August Wittgenstein is Lukas

Lukas is an illegal raider who shares history with Lara in more ways than one.

As previously announced, the series stars Sophie Turner as Lara Croft and led by Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag) serving as creator, writer, executive producer and co-showrunner alongside Chad Hodge as co-showrunner and executive producer; they are joined by Jonathan Van Tulleken who will serve as director and executive producer.

The series is executive produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Crystal Dynamics, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Jenny Robins through Wells Street Films, Dmitri M. Johnson, Michael Lawrence Goldberg and Timothy I. Stevenson through Story Kitchen, Michael Scheel, and Legendary Television. Co-executive produced by Matt McInnis and Jan R. Martin as producer.

Starbucks is ringing in the new year with a cozy new menu, featuring both returning favourites and exciting new beverages available in stores across Canada beginning January 6, 2026.

Post-holidays, many Canadians will be looking for a reset, with a renewed focus on balance and wellness. From post-pilates protein beverages to latte-fueled study sessions with friends, Starbucks winter menu offerings seamlessly fit into every balanced lifestyle.

Here is everything you need to know:

o Protein is getting a caramel twist: These new protein beverages are joining the year-round menu and can be made hot or iced, with classic caramel or new sugar-free caramel syrup.

o The new Iced Brown Sugar Cream Protein Matcha has arrived for the new year! This beverage pairs earthy matcha with a luscious layer of brown sugar–flavoured protein cold foam for a smooth, indulgent finish, with 24 grams of protein per grande.

o The new Caramel Protein Matcha combines unsweetened matcha with Protein-boosted Milk and caramel syrup, with 28 to 32 grams of protein per hot or iced grande.

· Pistachio is back and having a moment: The beloved pistachio flavour returns to Starbucks for a limited time, offering customers the chance to revisit seasonal favourites or experience a new take on the classic green nut.

o The Pistachio Latte has returned with some fun variations, including the new Pistachio Cortado, the Pistachio Cream Cold Brew and the Pistachio Frappuccino®. Pistachio and brown butter are the leading flavours in each of these beverages, delivering a sweet yet balanced profile.

o Starbucks has officially launched its take on a viral trend. The new Iced Dubai Chocolate Matcha combines vibrant unsweetened matcha, pistachio sauce, milk and ice. Topped with silky chocolate cream cold foam and a salted brown-buttery topping, this beverage will unite matcha and Dubai Chocolate fans across Canada. The Iced Dubai Chocolate Mocha brings together Starbucks Espresso Roast, chocolate mocha sauce and milk over ice, with pistachio cream cold foam and a salted brown-buttery topping for a truly elevated sipping experience.

o Valentine’s favourites return to the pastry case with the Valentine Cake Pop and Heart Cookie, alongside new winter merchandise including Lunar New Year and Valentine’s designs.