Looking to slay Halloween this year? A golden opportunity awaits for KPop Demon Hunters fans.

Back by popular demand, the KPop Demon Hunters Sing-Along event — a full-length sing-along version of the hit animated original film — is returning to theaters just in time for spooky season. Ready to join the hunt? Gear up and catch the limited theatrical event Friday, Oct. 31 through Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025.

For the US and Canada, tickets for the sing-along will go on sale Oct. 17 at 6 a.m. PT. Screenings will initially be available at select theatres across Canada, with more locations to be added in the coming weeks. Fans can head here to find the most up-to-date screenings near them beginning October 17.

The film will also play in additional theatres in the US and internationally, including the UK, Ireland, Korea, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, and New Zealand.

It’s your moment to show your KPop Demon Hunters fandom and come dressed as your favorite character. Unleash your inner Demon Hunter with officially licensed HUNTR/X costumes from Spirit Halloween, or show others how it’s done with Hunter and The Pride-approved must-haves from the Netflix Shop.

Last week, Netflix debuted KPop Demon Hunters lyric videos for fans who want to first practice at home. The line-up includes “How It’s Done,” “Golden,” “Soda Pop,” “Takedown,” and “Free.”

This October, the singing voices of HUNTR/X — EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, and REI AMI — performed live as a trio for the first time with surprise appearances on Saturday Night Live and a debut performance of “Golden” on The Tonight Starring Jimmy Fallon. As part of their appearance on The Tonight Show, Jimmy Fallon announced that the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack had officially gone platinum.

Since its June 20 release, the film has pulled ahead of the pack as the most-watched Netflix animated original film of all time and is now Netflix’s most popular movie ever. Plus, KPop Demon Hunters (Soundtrack from the Netflix Film) is the first soundtrack with four simultaneous Top 10 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 — with “Golden” rising to No. 1 — and has scored more than 7 billion global streams to date.

KPop Demon Hunters, produced in partnership with Sony Pictures Animation (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, The Mitchells vs. The Machines), is directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, and features a script by Danya Jimenez, Hannah McMechan, Kang, and Appelhans. The voice ensemble includes Arden Cho, May Hong, Ji-young Yoo, Ahn Hyo-seop, Yunjin Kim, Joel Kim Booster, Liza Koshy, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Jeong, and Byung Hun Lee.

Original songs are performed by EJAE, AUDREY NUNA, REI AMI, Andrew Choi, Danny Chung, Kevin Woo, samUIL Lee, Neckwav, and Lea Salonga; with TEDDY, 24, IDO, DOMINSUK, Jenna Andrews, Stephen Kirk, Lindgren, and Ian Eisendrath among the soundtrack’s producers. Songwriters include TEDDY, 24, Danny Chung, IDO, Vince, KUSH, EJAE, Jenna Andrews, Stephen Kirk, Lindgren, Mark Sonnenblick, and Daniel Rojas. Plus, composer Marcelo Zarvos wrote the original score.

Prepare for the upcoming theatrical event by streaming KPop Demon Hunters (again) on Netflix.

Toronto Arts Foundation is thrilled to announce the return of its signature fundraising celebration, the 2025 Mayor’s Evening for the Arts and The (In) Bloom Gala, taking place Wednesday, November 19 at The Carlu (444 Yonge Street, Toronto).

Together, these back-to-back events form Toronto’s biggest night for the arts, bringing artists, civic leaders, and cultural supporters to champion creativity and connection. Each year, the evening raises more than $1 million to support Toronto Arts Foundation programs that make the arts accessible for all Torontonians.

THE MAYOR’S EVENING FOR THE ARTS — 6:00–8:00 PM
The Mayor’s Evening for the Arts is Toronto Arts Foundation’s premier annual fundraiser, uniting artists, creative visionaries, and civic champions to celebrate the transformative role of the arts in shaping Toronto’s identity and vibrancy.

Funds raised directly support cornerstone Foundation programs such as Arts in the Parks, the Black Arts Program, and the Newcomer Artist Program, which provide mentorship, paid work, and free cultural experiences across Toronto.

Guests will enjoy live performances, moving artist stories, and a celebratory dinner alongside Mayor Olivia Chow, highlighting how the arts foster a sense of belonging, civic pride, and community well-being.

THE (IN) BLOOM GALA — 8:30 PM–LATE
When dinner ends, the celebration continues with The (In) Bloom Gala, Toronto’s biggest art party. Transforming The Carlu into an immersive world of sound and colour, the Gala brings together artists, audiences, and supporters in a joyful expression of Toronto’s creative spirit.

All proceeds from Gala tickets go directly to Toronto Arts Foundation, supporting mentorship, professional development, and free public arts programming citywide.

Tickets for the (In) Bloom Gala are on sale now at supportinbloom.ca for $150, including snacks, refreshments, and open bar. Please contact us at mail@torontoarts.org to claim accessible pricing.

This year’s Gala features an electrifying lineup of performances and installations, including:
-The Halluci Nation — The acclaimed Indigenous DJ duo blending activism and electronic innovation.
-OKAN — Afro-Cuban Grammy-nominated artists known for fusing jazz, folk, and global rhythms.
-DJ Me Time — A local favourite redefining the dancefloor with inclusivity and community-driven energy.
-Human Body Expression — Hanna Kiel’s emotionally charged contemporary dance company.
-Jihyun Back — A Korean traditional dancer bridging heritage and innovation.
-Toronto Kiki Ballroom Alliance — a local non-profit performing arts organization supporting racialized -LGBTQIA+ youth through Ballroom culture, mentorship, and community events.
-Miss Moço — Canada’s celebrated drag icon and host of The Drake Hotel’s legendary brunch, as evening host and MC.
-Amadeus Choir — The award-winning Canadian choral choir, and opera singer Meher Pavri performing an aria from the Mahabharata.
-Maziar Ghaderi, Vladimir Kanic, and Cathy Esther Thorne, whose immersive installations will transform The Carlu’s historic spaces.

FAST FACTS
Funds raised from the Mayor’s Evening for the Arts and (In) Bloom Gala help create:

295 free arts events for all Torontonians in over 20 neighbourhood parks and spaces
245 hours of mentorship for 95 emerging artists
Free training and workshops for 223 arts workers and volunteers
$220,000 in paid contracts for young and newcomer IBPOC artists
Over $130,000 in annual recognition through financial awards for talented artists

QUOTE

“A strong arts sector fuels business, drives tourism and innovation, and contributes to our city’s prosperity and growth. Investing in the arts makes our city a better place to live.”
— Kelly Langgard, Director & CEO, Toronto Arts Foundation

ABOUT KELLY LANGGARD

Appointed Director & CEO of Toronto Arts Foundation and Toronto Arts Council in January 2023, Kelly Langgard has brought more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning arts funding, policy, and cultural diplomacy. A former Director of Granting at the Ontario Arts Council and past senior leader at the Canada Council for the Arts, Langgard’s career began in the independent media arts sector, including directing Toronto’s Images Festival. Her leadership is marked by a strong commitment to equity, access, and inclusion—principles that continue to guide the Foundation’s vision for a more vibrant and connected Toronto.

A SPOTLIGHT ON TORONTO’S ARTS COMMUNITY

In a city where cultural stories compete for attention, Toronto Arts Foundation continues to take an event-driven approach to storytelling — spotlighting the moments, performances, and people that make Toronto’s arts sector impossible to ignore. Through the Mayor’s Evening for the Arts and The (In) Bloom Gala, the Foundation shines a light on the artists, leaders, and changemakers shaping Toronto’s creative future.

Award-winning North American hospitality group INK Entertainment returns to Las Vegas with a limited-time pop-up of its celebrated Italian concept, Sofia. Running from November 11–22, 2025 at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, the activation marks INK’s return to the city since partnering with Cirque du Soleil in the 2010’s for Revolution Bar on the Las Vegas Strip. This special engagement offers guests a rare opportunity to experience Sofia’s signature blend of refined Italian dining, glamorous design and cultural artistry, perfectly timed to coincide with two of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas’ marquee weekends: the KISS Kruise: Land- Locked in Las Vegas fan weekend and the Big Race weekend.

Sofia has already earned acclaim at its Toronto flagship in Yorkville and at its Miami outpost in the Design District, both beloved for their modern Italian cuisine, world-class service and art-driven environments. For Las Vegas, the space at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas will feature a curated art program in collaboration with Taglialatella Galleries, with highlights including works by internationally recognized artist Russell Young.

The culinary program will be helmed by Corporate Executive Chef Patrick Ochs and Sofia Miami Executive Chef Abel Vuelens, presenting a menu of Sofia’s most celebrated dishes alongside limited-edition plates crafted exclusively for the Las Vegas run. Complementing the food will be a regionally inspired cocktail program designed by Nishan Chandra, featuring flavor-driven ingredients and precise execution, along with a curated selection of rare Italian wines and vintage labels.

“Las Vegas has always represented the pinnacle of dining and entertainment, and bringing Sofia here is an exciting milestone for us as founders of INK Entertainment,” said Charles Khabouth, CEO and Founder, and Danny Soberano, President and Co-Founder, INK Entertainment. “Our vision has always been to create experiences that seamlessly blend cuisine, design, and culture, and this pop-up allows us to showcase Sofia’s spirit on one of the world’s most dynamic stages.

From the food and cocktails to the art and atmosphere, every detail has been thoughtfully curated to deliver something truly unforgettable. We’re thrilled to share Sofia with Las Vegas and look forward to introducing the city to the kind of hospitality experiences that define our brand.”

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Sofia to Las Vegas, and it’s an honor to work with a brand as stylish and contemporary as INK Entertainment,” said Cliff Atkinson, President of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. “This has been a transformative year for the property, and this partnership is an exciting development. The timing is incredible, both for KISS Kruise: Land-Locked in Las Vegas and the Big Race. With the addition of this incredible partnership, this year will stand out as something truly special at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.”

Founded by visionary entrepreneurs Charles Khabouth and Danny Soberano, INK Entertainment is known for reimagining hospitality through a portfolio of celebrated dining, nightlife, music and lifestyle concepts across Canada and South Florida. Through its partnership with the world-renowned Virgin brand, the Sofia pop-up in Las Vegas marks a milestone in the group’s continued U.S. expansion.

Beyond Sofia, INK Entertainment continues to grow its U.S. presence with Miami concepts Amal and Level 6, and forthcoming openings in Las Olas and Boca Raton.

The Sofia pop-up will be located at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, just east of the Las Vegas strip at 4455 Paradise Rd, and will be open daily starting November 11 for dinner, from 5:00 – 11:00 PM excluding Nov. 17 and 18, during which the pop-up will be dark. Reservations will be open on October 13 via Seven Rooms: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/vilvsofia

For more information and to make a reservation, please visit inkentertainment.com and follow
along on social media via Instagram at @INKEntertainment.

MUBI, the global distributor, streaming service and production company, is pleased to announce the streaming release date for Oliver Hermanus’ (Living, Moffie) latest feature film The History of Sound, on MUBI in Canada starting November 1, 2025.

Directed by Oliver Hermanus and written by Ben Shattuck (based on his short story), the film stars Paul Mescal (Gladiator, Aftersun, All of Us Strangers), Josh O’Connor (The Crown, Challengers, La Chimera) and Chris Cooper (Adaptation, American Beauty, The Bourne Identity).

SYNOPSIS
Starring Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor, THE HISTORY OF SOUND is a sweeping, moving and tender romance that spans decades and continents. In 1917, Lionel (Mescal, Aftersun) – a young, talented music student – meets David (O’Connor, Challengers) at the Boston Conservatory, where a connection over a deep love of music leads to a fleeting love affair. They reconnect years later, leading to an impromptu journey through the backwoods of Maine to collect traditional folk songs. This unexpected reunion and the music they preserve will shape the course of Lionel’s life for decades to come. From director Oliver Hermanus (Living), this is a beautiful and compelling cinematic experience that tells the story of a love that can’t last, a life forever altered, and the ways in which music creates bonds between us that echo for a lifetime.

Directed by Oliver Hermanus
Screenplay Ben Shattuck
Starring Paul Mescal, Josh O’Connor, Molly Price, Alison Bartlett, and Chris Cooper
Cinematography Alexander Dynan
Music Supervisor Lucy Bright
Editor Chris Wyatt
Casting Susan Shopmaker
Production Design Deborah Jensen
Costume Design Miyako Bellizzi

THE HISTORY OF SOUND WILL BE ON MUBI IN CANADA FROM NOVEMBER 1, 2025

About MUBI
MUBI is a global streaming service, production company and film distributor dedicated to elevating great cinema. MUBI creates, curates, acquires and champions visionary films, bringing them to audiences all over the world.

MUBI is a place to discover ambitious films, from both iconic directors and emerging auteurs. All carefully chosen by MUBI’s curators. With MUBI GO, members in select countries can get a free ticket every week to see the best new films in cinemas. And Notebook explores all sides of cinema culture — both in print and online.

Some previous and upcoming MUBI Releases include: Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance, Luca Guadagnino’s Queer, Joshua Oppenheimer’s The End, Magnus von Horn’s The Girl with the Needle, Pinny Grylls & Sam Crane’s Grand Theft Hamlet, Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla, Ira Sachs’ Passages, Pedro Almodóvar’s Strange Way of Life, Molly Manning Walker’s How to Have Sex, Aki Kaurismäki’s Fallen Leaves, Charlotte Wells’ Aftersun, Park Chan-wook’s Decision to Leave, Joachim Trier’s The Worst Person in the World, Lukas Dhont’s Close, and Céline Sciamma’s Petite Maman.

MUBI Productions include Kelly Reichardt’s The Mastermind starring Josh O’Connor, Christopher Andrews’ Bring Them Down starring Christopher Abbott and Barry Keoghan, Elizabeth Sankey’s Witches, and Bill Ross IV and Turner Ross’ Gasoline Rainbow. MUBI Co-productions include Jim Jarmusch’s Father Mother Sister Brother starring Adam Driver, Mayim Bialik, Tom Waits, Charlotte Rampling, Cate Blanchett, Vicky Krieps, Indya Moore and Luka Sabbat, Karim Aïnouz’s Rosebush Pruning starring Callum Turner, Riley Keough, Jamie Bell, Lukas Gage, Elena Anaya, Tracy Letts, Elle Fanning and Pamela Anderson, and Michel Franco’s Memory starring Jessica Chastain and Peter Sarsgaard.

Founded in 2007 by Efe Cakarel, MUBI is the biggest community of film lovers anywhere, with members across 190 different countries. MUBI is headquartered in London, with 15 offices across the world and over 400 employees. MUBI acquired renowned sales agent and production company The Match Factory and Match Factory Productions in January 2022, and a majority stake in leading Benelux film distributor Cinéart in February 2024.

Subscription plans are $14.99 a month or $119.88 for 12 months, or $19.99 a month or $167.88 for 12 months to include MUBI GO. MUBI is available on the web, Roku devices, Apple Vision Pro, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, LG and Samsung Smart TVs, as well as on mobile devices including iPad, iPhone and Android.

“Fire And Water: Making The Avatar Films” will premiere November 7, 2025, exclusively on Disney+. Be sure to check out the trailer below!

The two-part documentary from 20th Century Studios and Lightstorm Entertainment, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the making of the Oscar®-winning box office phenomenon “Avatar: The Way of Water” and a first look at the upcoming “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” features exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, concept art, and interviews with cast and filmmakers. The filmmakers traveled from Manhattan Beach, San Pedro, Shasta Lake, and the Channel Islands to the Bahamas, Hawaii, and New Zealand, to follow the cast and below-the-line team as they work to hone and perfect the techniques of underwater performance capture technology and learn to free dive in a massive, state-of-the-art 680,000-gallon water tank.

The executive producers for “Fire And Water: Making The Avatar Films” are James Cameron and Rae Sanchini. The director/producer is Thomas C. Grane, the writer/producer is Richard Brehm, the creative director is Robert Glowacki, the director of photography is John Clisham, the director of photography – interviews is Steven Wacks, and the creative consultant is Geoff Burdick.

The two-part documentary includes interviews with (in order of appearance): James Cameron (writer/director/producer/editor), Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Jon Landau (producer), Stephen Lang, Maria Battle Campbell (co-producer, 1st assistant director), Richard Baneham (executive producer, Lightstorm visual effects supervisor), Kate Winslet, Rae Sanchini (executive producer, president, Lightstorm Entertainment), Margery Simkin (casting director), Jamie Landau (co-producer), Stephen Rivkin (editor), Ryan Champney (visual production supervisor), Dylan Cole (production designer), Garrett Warren (2nd unit director, stunt coordinator), Rob Innes (founder, Jetovator, Inc.), John Rosengrant (co-founder, Legacy Effects), Chis Denison (stunts), Joey Natale (stunts, stunt driver), Steve Brown (assistant stunt coordinator), Richie Schwalm (on-set coordinator), JD Schwalm (performance capture special effects coordinator), Peter Zuccarini (underwater cinematographer), John Garvin (supervising dive master), Kirk Krack (performance free dive instructor), Sigourney Weaver, Cliff Curtis, William Trubridge (Metkayina stroke consultant), Britain Dalton, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Luke Freeborn (supervising art director), Ben Procter (production designer), Brigitte Yorke (co-producer, New Zealand unit production manager), Brendan Cowell, John Garvin (supervising dive master), Jack Champion, Joe Letteri (senior visual effects supervisor), Eric Saindon (Wētā FX, senior visual effects supervisor), Nick Epstein (Wētā FX, visual effects supervisor). Mob Scene served as the production company for the documentary.

Twenty-five years ago, four grateful Hobbits left the Shire and changed the face of fantasy forever. In 2026, Sean Astin, Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, and Elijah Wood will reunite with fans for An Evening with the Hobbits: In Celebration of 25 Years, a once-in-a-quarter-century celebration tour that will be featured at 11 FAN EXPO HQ shows across North America – including in Toronto, August 29 at FAN EXPO Canada, August 27–30, 2026.

More than a reunion and so much more than a panel, An Evening with the Hobbits is part variety show, part storytelling session, and all fun. No two nights will be the same — fans can expect a lively mix of behind-the-scenes memories, on-stage antics, heartfelt reflections, and plenty of laughs along the way. From inside jokes and surprise moments to the friendships that still shine 25 years later, this one-of-a-kind event promises a celebration as unexpected — and joyful — as a Hobbit feast.

Full tour dates include:

FAN EXPO New Orleans (January 9–11, 2026): Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 7:30 PM CT

FAN EXPO Portland (January 16–18, 2026): Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 7:30 PM PT

FAN EXPO Vancouver (February 14–16, 2026): TBD

MEGACON Orlando (March 19–22, 2026): Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 7:30 PM ET

Calgary Comics & Entertainment Expo (April 23–26, 2026): Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 7:30 PM MT

FAN EXPO Denver (May 28–31, 2026): TBD

FAN EXPO Philadelphia (May 29–31, 2026): TBD

FAN EXPO Boston (August 7–9, 2026): Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 7:30 PM ET

FAN EXPO Chicago (August 14–16, 2026): Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 7:30 PM CT

FAN EXPO Canada (August 27–30, 2026): Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 7:30 PM ET
FAN EXPO Dallas (September 11–13, 2026): Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 7:30 PM CT

“FAN EXPO is all about creating unforgettable experiences, and An Evening with the Hobbits will be exactly that,” said Andrew Moyes, Vice President, FAN EXPO HQ. “Fans are delighted whenever we host these gentlemen individually — but together, the energy is electric. Their characters are beloved, their friendship is indelible, and the joy they bring to audiences is unmatched. We can’t wait to present this special anniversary celebration in 2026.”

At a recent FAN EXPO appearance, Elijah Wood offered these thoughts on the anniversary: “To be celebrating this milestone – a quarter of a century – just feels abstract. It still feels like the films are really present. The fact that we’re spending this kind of time (at conventions with fans and doing shows like this), it keeps it so fresh for us. It’s such a massive, continual part of our lives.”

Tickets for An Evening with the Hobbits: In Celebration of 25 Years at FAN EXPO Canada will be on sale October 22 at 10 AM local time via https://fanexpohq.com/fanexpocanada/. (FAN EXPO Canada admission required), along with VIP experiences that include once-in-a-lifetime photo op and autograph sessions. Exclusive merch and collectibles will also be available at each of the tour stops, and organizers are teasing even more celebratory programming (including additional The Lord of the Rings guest appearances at FAN EXPO HQ events) — details coming soon.

Fans are encouraged to secure their spot early — these evenings are expected to sell out faster than pints at The Green Dragon.

Why does it always have to end? See the new official Trailer for KEEPER from Osgood Perkins, starring Tatiana Maslany and Rossif Sutherland!

KEEPER. In theatres November 14, 2025 via Elevation Pictures.

Producers Bruce Hills Entertainment, Counterfeit Pictures, and Hemmings Films are pleased to announce that they will go into production on Stand Up For Canada Starring Rick Mercer, a new one-hour comedy special set to premiere on CBC and CBC Gem. Timing for the premiere will be confirmed at a later date.

Set to film in front of a live audience in Saint John, New Brunswick on October 17, 2025 the special will capture a night on Rick Mercer’s wildly successful coast-to-coast comedy tour, which continues through October 2025, and is presented by MRG Live and Bruce Hills Entertainment. Mercer is joined by Canadian comedians Sophie Buddle, Mayce Galoni and Julie Kim, and performed 28 shows across 20 cities, with 24 sold-out venues and more than 40,000 tickets sold.

The Stand Up For Canada Starring Rick Mercer special promises to deliver a funny, insightful and heartfelt celebration of Canada through the comedy of one of the country’s most beloved voices, as well as a new generation of rising stand-up stars. Together, Mercer, Buddle, Galoni and Kim will shine a light on the diverse perspectives, stories and humour that make Canada’s comedy scene one of the richest in the world.

Stand Up For Canada Starring Rick Mercer is produced by Bruce Hills Entertainment, Counterfeit Pictures, and Hemmings Films, in association with CBC.

ABOUT RICK MERCER

Rick Mercer is a Canadian comedian, television personality, political satirist and author. He is best known for his work on the CBC Television comedy shows This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Made In Canada and Rick Mercer Report. He is the author of four books all of which have been national best sellers. Mercer has received nearly 30 Gemini Awards and Canadian Screen awards for his work on television. His CBC Television special Talking To Americans remains the highest rated Canadian comedy special ever with 2.7 million viewers.

Rick holds Honorary Doctorates from Memorial University, Laurentian University, University of British Columbia, McMaster University, Bishop’s University, Brock University and the University of Guelph. In 2014, he received Honorary Doctorates from the Royal Military Academy and from University of Western Ontario and York University.

He is on the board of directors of Historica Canada, an organization dedicated to promoting Canadian history, identity and citizenship. They are the “Heritage Minute” people.

He is a recipient of the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for lifetime achievement and in 2014 was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada.

He is a native of St. John’s, Newfoundland.

ABOUT SOPHIE BUDDLE

Sophie Buddle is a stand-up, a TV writer, and a podcaster. She has appeared on “The Tonight Show”, “The Late Late Show with James Corden”, and on CBC’s “This Hour Has 22 Minutes” as a correspondent and staff writer. She’s also been featured on CTV’s “Roast Battle”, JFL All Access, Kevin Hart’s LOL Network, the Winnipeg Comedy Festival and the Halifax Comedy Festival. She was a featured performer at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal and in 2022 had the esteemed privilege of delivering the Canadian Keynote Address on Comedy.

Sophie released her first album in 2019, “Lil Bit Of Buddle,” which won the 2020 Juno Award for Best Comedy Album of the Year, making her the first female comic to win that award. She released the album herself so you can find it on iTunes in the genre “easy listening”, which was a mistake, but it is easy to listen to, so it’s OK. Her podcast “Obsessed with Sophie Buddle”, which tackles people’s obsessions (from Beyoncé to American politics to checking if the door is locked to revenge) is currently available on Apple Podcasts. She is a three-time runner up (but fourth time’s the charm!) for Canada’s biggest stand-up contest, SiriusXM Top Comic, and can currently be seen headlining across the country.

ABOUT MAYCE GALONI

Mayce Galoni is a Los Angeles based stand-up comedian and writer. Originally from Hamilton, Ontario, Mayce started doing stand-up in dive bars on school nights when he was 15 years old. His laid-back style and clever writing have led him to perform at comedy clubs and festivals across North America.

He has been seen on Just for Laughs Montreal, Hulu, Netflix is a Joke Fest, MTV, Kevin Hart’s LOL Network, Dry Bar and Don’t Tell Comedy’s Secret Sets, and his clips from these appearances have amassed millions of views online.

His work in television includes starring in BiteTV’s PrankYou, as well as being a staff writer and correspondent on 3 seasons of CBC’s This Hour has 22 Minutes. Mayce’s comedy album can be heard regularly on SiriusXM, and was nominated for Comedy Album of the Year at the JUNOS. You can watch his debut full length comedy special “Live at the Blue Grotto” which is available now on YouTube.

ABOUT JULIE KIM

Julie Kim is a comedian, writer, podcaster, and content creator. She is one of Canada’s top stand-up comedians. Julie recently completed a Canadian solo tour with multiple sold-out shows. Julie previously toured across North America doing 40 theatre shows with Ronny Chieng (Crazy Rich Asians, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah). She was a gala performer at the 2022 Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal and headlined four sold-out solo shows at Just for Laughs Toronto in 2023. Over the past decade, Julie has performed at all the major Canadian comedy festivals including Just for Laughs Vancouver, Winnipeg Comedy Festival, and Halifax Comedy Festival (with multiple televised performances). She tours internationally and made her debut at the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Julie has also been regularly featured on CBC’s The Debaters.

Julie is also a Canadian Screen Award winning writer and producer. She has contributed to the writing rooms of Kim’s Convenience, Run the Burbs, and Still Standing. Julie was a producer and writer for Simu Liu (Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings) as he hosted the 2022 and 2023 Juno Awards. Julie’s increasingly popular podcast, called Bothered, includes rant-worthy stories and experiences that are hilarious and relatable.

Julie’s mission is to spread happiness, lighten hearts, and unite through laughter. And no amount of mom-shaming will stop her.

ABOUT THE PRODUCERS

COUNTERFEIT PICTURES

Counterfeit Pictures, a Toronto-based production company with a focus on comedy, is led by partners Dan Bennett, Shane Corkery and Anton Leo. Counterfeit’s half-hour workplace comedy ‘The Office Movers’ (Crave) returns for a second season featuring Bell Media Studios breakout stars and online legends Jae and Trey Richards. The company recently completed filming the comedy special ‘No Refunds’ from TikTok sensations Darcy & Jer (Crave). Other credits include ‘One More Time’ (CBC) with comedian D.J. Demers (The Tonight Show, Conan), ‘Shelved’ (CTV), the award-winning ‘Sunnyside’ (CityTV/FX Canada), and ‘Keep Busy’ with YouTube sensation Kurtis Conner.

Counterfeit’s newest production, the feature length performance documentary, People Of Comedy: Celebrating 30 Years of The Nubian Show recently debuted on Crave. Under its banner Counterfeit Sounds, the company has recently produced the podcast ‘Benefits With Friends’ starring Mae Martin and Sabrina Jalees (Audible), and a slate of comedy albums including the Juno Award winning ‘Honourable Intentions’ from Debra DiGiovanni, as well as albums from Howie Mandel, Robby Hoffman, D.J. Demers, Allie Pearse and Brent Butt.

Learn more at: counterfeitpictures.com

BRUCE HILLS ENTERTAINMENT

Founded in 2025 by comedy industry veteran Bruce Hills, Bruce Hills Entertainment is driving a new era in live comedy, spearheading concert promotion across Canada and beyond, advising top global companies in the comedy and entertainment space, and producing world-class events that push the boundaries of the genre. The company’s recent work reflects its bold vision, including strategic consulting for The Second City and the launch of its new venue in New York City to curating the comedy slate for the inaugural Departure Festival in Toronto—including a one night only concert by Dave Chappelle. Among its earliest productions was a sold-out arena show featuring Kevin Hart at Montréal’s Bell Centre. The company is also co-promoting comedian Josh Johnson’s highly anticipated Canadian tour alongside MRG Live. Prior to launching this venture, Hills spent 39 years leading Just For Laughs, overseeing its global English-language operations and expanding festivals to cities like Montréal, Toronto, Vancouver, Chicago and Sydney. Recognized as a pioneer in comedy, Hills played a key role in launching the careers of stars such as Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Wanda Sykes, Ronny Chieng, and Jimmy Fallon.

Counterfeit Pictures, a Toronto-based production company with a focus on comedy, is led by partners Dan Bennett, Shane Corkery and Anton Leo. Counterfeit’s half-hour workplace comedy ‘The Office Movers’ (Crave) returns for a second season featuring Bell Media Studios breakout stars and online legends Jae and Trey Richards. The company recently completed filming the comedy special ‘No Refunds’ from TikTok sensations Darcy & Jer (Crave). Other credits include ‘One More Time’ (CBC) with comedian D.J. Demers (The Tonight Show, Conan), ‘Shelved’ (CTV), the award-winning ‘Sunnyside’ (CityTV/FX Canada), and ‘Keep Busy’ with YouTube sensation Kurtis Conner.

Counterfeit’s newest production, the feature length performance documentary, People Of Comedy: Celebrating 30 Years of The Nubian Show recently debuted on Crave. Under its banner Counterfeit Sounds, the company has recently produced the podcast ‘Benefits With Friends’ starring Mae Martin and Sabrina Jalees (Audible), and a slate of comedy albums including the Juno Award winning ‘Honourable Intentions’ from Debra DiGiovanni, as well as albums from Howie Mandel, Robby Hoffman, D.J. Demers, Allie Pearse and Brent Butt.

Learn more at: counterfeitpictures.com

Hemmings Films

Hemmings Films, a full-service production house headquartered in Saint John, New Brunswick, develops feature films, documentaries, and network series. Led by founder and Executive Producer Greg Hemmings and partners Steve Foster and Evan Ottoni, the company leverages decades of industry experience to deliver premium productions across genres. Hemmings Films recently partnered with Blue Ice Pictures on Revival – a supernatural noir series based on the Image Comics franchise; the 10×44‑minute series launched 12 June 2025 on Syfy/Crave with Melanie Scrofano and Romy Weltman. On the unscripted front, the company co‑produces the CBC competition show Race Against the Tide, where teams of world‑class sand sculptors race the Bay of Fundy’s tide clock, the design‑driven lifestyle series Real Houses Of… featuring one‑of‑a‑kind North American homes, and docu‑soap Kardinal Sinners, a gritty portrait of semi‑pro wrestlers battling for a shot at stardom.

Hemmings Films also produced the drama What We Dreamed of Then – written and directed by award‑winning filmmaker Taylor Olson and produced by Sandy Hunter, Stephen Foster and Britt Kerr. Hemmings Films continues to operate as a creative hub for international and interprovincial co‑productions, using forward‑thinking production services and a values‑driven approach to deliver content that entertains and inspires.

Learn more at: hemmingsfilms.com

ABOUT CBC/RADIO-CANADA

CBC/Radio-Canada is Canada’s national public broadcaster. Through our mandate to inform, enlighten and entertain, we play a central role in strengthening Canadian culture. As Canada’s trusted news source, we offer a uniquely Canadian perspective on news, current affairs and world affairs. Our distinctively homegrown entertainment programming draws audiences from across the country. Deeply rooted in communities, CBC/Radio-Canada offers diverse content in English, French and eight Indigenous languages: Dëne Sųłıné, Dene Kǝdǝ́, Dene Zhatıé, Eastern Cree, Dinjii Zhuʼ Ginjik, Inuktitut, Inuvialuktun and Tłı̨chǫ. We also deliver content in Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Punjabi and Tagalog, as well as both official languages, through Radio Canada International (RCI). We are leading the transformation to meet the needs of Canadians in a digital world.

This holiday season is all about intentional gift-giving. From practical, eco-friendly picks to smart home tech that makes life easier, Epson’s curated gift guide blends sustainability with convenience, offering thoughtful options for premium gifting.

And with select models on sale during Black Friday and throughout December, there’s no better time for Canadians to get a head start on their holiday shopping.

Gift Guide Picks:

The Epson EcoTank ET-2980 Wireless All-in-One Colour Supertank Printer (MSRP: $399.99 CAD)

Designed for easy use, the ET-2980 is perfect for busy homes with a variety of printing needs. With Epson’s innovative cartridge-free EcoTank technology, families can print thousands of pages in black and colour without worrying about expensive, wasteful ink refills1, which is useful when printing anything from end-of-year reports to holiday cards.

EcoTank ET-4950 Wireless All-in-One Colour Supertank Printer (MSRP: $599.99 CAD)

For the ultimate home office upgrade, gift yourself the ET-4950. This printer has a sleek and sophisticated design and comes with enough ink to last up to 3 years 2. This model offers advanced productivity features like auto duplex printing, copying and scanning, helpful for both students and professionals alike.

Epson FastFoto FF-680W Wireless High-speed Photo Scanning System (MSRP: $849.99)

The sentimental family member is always one of the hardest people to shop for. The Epson FastFoto FF-6680W photo scanner is the perfect gift to help them embrace their nostalgic side. In addition to quicky scanning and digitizing old photographs, users can enjoy the Epson FastFoto app3, providing the ability to add voice and text over their photos, or create slideshows, right from their smartphone.

Toronto’s most spirited showdown returns with the next instalment of the Bar Battle series. On Monday, October 27, 2025, from 5:30–7:00 pm, two of the city’s celebrated bartenders will go head-to-head at Lyla, the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant known for its elevated, old-world charm and lively energy. Partnering with Valley of Mother of God, Perrier and Cocktail Emporium, this round will see Nick Hurd of No Vacancy face off against Orion Berge of Harbour Sixty, crafting an original cocktail that showcases the featured spirit in a battle of creativity, refined techniques and storytelling. Guests can look forward to world-class cocktails, light bites by Executive Chef Michael Medeiros, and an inside look at Toronto’s thriving mixology scene. Tickets are $55 per guest (tax & gratuity inclusive) and include two cocktails, Mediterranean-inspired bites, and a welcome Perrier mocktail, available now via OpenTable HERE.

Competitor Spotlight

Nick Hurd – No Vacancy
With over 13 years in hospitality and 6 years behind the bar, Nick Hurd has worked at some of Toronto’s most celebrated cocktail spots including Ruby Soho, Project Gigglewater, Overpressure Club, and Civil Liberties. Known for his calm precision and classically inspired approach, Nick focuses on balance, texture, and highlighting the spirit at the heart of each drink. “I’ve usually stayed within my comfort zone and focused on service, but putting my skills under a microscope and presenting a drink I need to stand behind in front of a panel of judges is a skill I’m excited to develop,” says Hurd.

Orion Berge – Harbour Sixty & Arianna

Having honed his craft at prestigious venues like Peacock Alley at the Waldorf Astoria and under the mentorship of The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book author Frank Caiafa, Orion brings a worldly and inspired perspective to the competition. His style blends confidence with humility, drawing creative spark from music, food, and unexpected flavour pairings. “Creativity can come from anywhere,” he says. “I like to think I have the confidence to create drinks that I enjoy and the humility to adjust when no one else does.”

Raising the Bar

More than a competition, the Bar Battle at Lyla is an immersive celebration of Toronto’s cocktail culture. Guests will sip, taste, and vote for the People’s Choice winner, as two of the city’s top talents bring their creativity to the shaker, complemented by Lyla’s signature Mediterranean-inspired bites. With the support of partners Valley of Mother of God, Perrier, and Cocktail Emporium, the evening highlights the collaboration, craftsmanship, and community spirit that continue to shape Toronto’s evolving bar scene. Among the evening’s judging panel are Cristina Carpio, media personality and recognized leader in the hospitality, food, and beverage industries; Walter Reis, Lyla’s esteemed Bar Manager; and Jason Dagenais, luxury hospitality professional and Brand Partnerships Manager for Perrier, S.Pellegrino, and Acqua Panna in Canada.