Get ready to laugh your rainbow socks off with Fiercely Funny! Celebrate Pride Month at the legendary Second City and support Rainbow Railroad with this uproarious comedy variety show. Featuring sketch comedy, stand-up and drag served up by a fabulous lineup of 2SLGBTQIA+ comedians and performers, this show promises an evening of side-splitting entertainment that’s equal parts fierce and funny!

With performances from: Ben Sosa Wright, Anders Yates, Monica Garrido Huerta, Ajahnis Charley, Bren D’Souza, Rachel Manson and drag queen Destiny!

50% of profits will be donated to Rainbow Railroad, an organization that helps LGBTQI+ people facing danger escape to safety through emergency travel, crisis response, partnerships, and other forms of support.

Come celebrate Pride, celebrate comedy, and celebrate community… with laughter.

Fiercely Funny
June 22 @ 8:00pm
The Second City
1 York St., Toronto ON
$25 General Admission
TICKETS HERE

The Acura Integra is officially back! After reigning as the “it” car in the mid-’90s, it is making a huge comeback and trust me, this is not your mom and dad’s Integra. This compact liftback is sleek, technology-driven and modernized, exuding an irresistible appeal. There is no denying the 2025 Acura Integra Elite A-SPEC is a beauty!

We had the opportunity to test drive this front-wheel drive beauty recently, possessing a 16-valve, DOHC, VTEC^®,1.5-litre inline 4-cylinder with Turbocharger, with direct injection engine and operating at 200 horsepower @ 6000 rpm. This is a force to be reckoned with and does it with great fuel efficiency on premium unleaded fuel at 8.1/6.5/7.4 litres/100 km. Our ride was a classic Liquid Carbon Metallic, and you get four modes for your needs: Comfort / Normal / Sport / Individual.

The Acura Integra Elite A-SPEC offers refinement. Its gorgeous red leatherette seats with microsuede inserts (front), leatherette (2nd row) drew us in right away, and we were sold on features like its ELS Studio® 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers including subwoofer. The Driver gets 12-way power adjustment including 4-way power lumbar support, passengers get 4-way power adjustment. Seats also have warming options, which we actually needed as it has been an unseasonably-cool May. Steering wheel also is heated, leather-wrapped, with a sophisticated A-SPEC™ design and mounted controls.

A 9-inch touchscreen display is simply gorgeous making it easy for us to navigate Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™, HD Radio™, SiriusXM™, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio, Amazon Alexa Built-in, and more. Its 10.2″ meter display also looks phenomenal as well for ease of reading. While the weather hasn’t been great in Toronto of late, finally by the end of the test drive we got to use its ambient moonroof for a sunny drive. Not to say, the car isn’t beautiful in the dark also, with its tasteful white ambient lights.

The Integra Elite A-SPEC includes a wireless phone charger (Qi-compatible), an abundance of USB charging options, plus a 12-volt power outlet making it effortless to stay connected.

It’s all in the details with the Integra Elite A-SPEC, boasting bold additions like Jewel Eye® LED headlights Chicane™, LED Daytime Running Lights, LED fog lights LED headlights with auto-on/off LED front turn signal indicators, Chicane™ LED taillights Integrated turn signal indicators, reverse auto tilt-down LED brake lights.

ACURA renew their focus on drive and passenger safety with an abundance of features here to protect them: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) With Low-Speed Follow, Auto high beam headlights, Blind Spot Information (BSI) system, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS®), Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) system, and Traffic Jam Assist.

Actual physical safety features include: Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, Advanced front airbags (SRS), Front side airbags, Front knee airbags, Rear outboard passenger’s side airbags, Side curtain airbags, Rear seat reminder, Seat belt reminder for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH), Childproof rear door locks, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) with Traction Control, Immobilizer theft-deterrent system, and a built-in security system.

The Driver also benefits from various technologies that make the daily drive that much more convenient, including: multi-angle rearview camera* with dynamic guidelines, parking sensors, head-up display, rear window defroster, rain-sensing wipers, driver attention monitor (aka time for a coffee!), hill start assist, and more. Truly a car that works for you no matter the season.

And don’t be deceived by how compact and sleek this liftback appears! Its deep trunk has plenty of storage space with some thoughtful divisions to keep your cargo safe and secure.

This is a fuss-free, perfect ride for everyday life. A pure joy.

Some highlights from our Test Drive:

The 2025 Acura Integra Elite A-SPEC begins at $49,101 CAN. More here.

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong)

Today, Hulu released the official trailer and key art for the upcoming Original docuseries “Call Her Alex,” premiering in Canada on Disney+ on June 10, 2025.

What does it take to become the most influential female podcaster of a generation? Following Alex Cooper as she prepares for her first tour, this compelling two-part documentary series traces Cooper’s evolution—from a self-conscious kid growing up in Pennsylvania to the voice behind “Call Her Daddy,” a podcast that redefined the conversation for women everywhere. Directed by Ry Russo-Young (“Nuclear Family”), the series offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the life-defining events that shaped Cooper’s journey as she grew from a 24-year-old woman with a sex and dating podcast to the CEO of a media empire in just six years. More than just a success story, it’s a portrait of a woman who is creating a space where women feel seen, heard, and empowered.

“Call Her Alex” is directed by Ry Russo-Young (Peabody Award-nominated “Nuclear Family”). Russo-Young also serves as an executive producer alongside Braden Bochner and Christopher Foss. Holly Siegel is producing. “Call Her Alex” is produced by Unwell.

“Call Her Alex” will make its world premiere at Tribeca Festival on June 8, 2025. The screening will be followed by a special Q&A with Alex Cooper and Ry Russo-Young.

Robust parental controls ensure that Disney+ remains a suitable viewing experience for everyone in the family. Subscribers can set access limits on mature content and create PIN-protected profiles alongside the already existing Junior Mode profiles to give parents and guardians peace of mind.

Rogers flagship television network Citytv announced its 2025/2026 programming slate today, anchored by new seasons of returning hits, buzzy new series and big live events that drove Citytv’s audience growth this season across full day and primetime**.

“Whether it’s original dramas, lifestyle programming or live sports, the focus of our long-term content investments is to give Canadian audiences the premium entertainment experiences they want, and how they want to watch it,” said Colette Watson, President, Rogers Sports & Media.

“We’ve got a powerful lineup this broadcast season that reflects the strength and stability of Citytv, cementing the network as one of Canada’s most desirable entertainment brands,” said Hayden Mindell, Senior Vice President, Television, Rogers Sports & Media. “Citytv is built on viewer-driven programming that advertisers can depend on to offer consistent audience reach week after week.”

CANADIAN ORIGINALS

Come On Down, Canada! Based on the smash-hit global format from Fremantle, The Price is Right Tonight (working title) is an all-new one-hour primetime edition of the iconic brand, hosted by legendary comedian and television personality Howie Mandel. Slated to air in Spring 2026, The Price is Right Tonight (working title) consists of 12 one-hour episodes with production beginning this December in Toronto. The Price is Right is the most successful and longest-running gameshow in TV history.

“I’ve been a fan of The Price is Right my entire life, so stepping into this iconic role is an absolute thrill,” said Howie Mandel, Host, The Price is Right Tonight (working title). “The Price is Right Tonight will bring a fresh, high-energy twist to everything people love about the original – big games, lots of laughs, and fun surprises! I can’t wait to say ‘come on down!’ to a whole new generation of Canadian fans.”

This September, the Toronto International Film Festival presented by Rogers celebrates 50 years as one of the world’s most revered film festivals. Citytv is bringing Canadians closer to the glitz and glam with a live one-hour red carpet special, hosted by Arisa Cox.

Hot off the heels of winning Best Drama Series at the Canadian Screen Awards, Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent returns with an all-new season set to debut in midseason, produced in partnership with Lark Productions and Cameron Pictures Inc.

Beloved Hudson & Rex returns for Season 8 with Luke Roberts (Game of Thrones, Ransom) officially joining the cast as Detective Mark. Production for Season 8 is currently underway in St. John’s, Newfoundland and will premiere this fall.

And, Breakfast Television, Ontario’s #1 morning show***, continues to brighten mornings from 6-10 a.m. with Dina Pugliese, Tim Bolen, and the rest of the Breakfast Television family – Devo Brown, Melanie Ng, Caryn Ceolin, and Tammie Sutherland – for the latest news, entertainment, celebrity interviews, lifestyle content, and more. 

NEW & RETURNING SERIES AND LIVE EVENTS FOR 2025/26:

Citytv and Citytv+ welcome 21 returning hits, three new series, and a slew of iconic special events including:

Hit reality/competition series The Golden Bachelor, Dancing with the Stars, and On Brand with Jimmy Fallon

Gripping dramas Brilliant Minds, Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Law & Order: Organized Crime, Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent, Hudson & Rex, The Hunting Party, Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D.

· Animated comedies The Simpsons, Universal Basic Guys, Bob’s Burgers, and Krapopolis

· High-energy game show series The Price is Right Tonight (working title)

· Pre-historic series Surviving Earth

· Newsmagazine series Dateline

· Iconic special events “Making of Wicked” with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, Dick Clark’s New Years Rockin’ Eve, Hockey Night in Canada, Return to Downton Abbey: A Grand Event, and The 68th GRAMMY Awards

New this fall is unscripted series On Brand with Jimmy Fallon, which follows The Tonight Show host as he starts a premier marketing agency and fills it with the most creative, clever, and competitive go-getters he can find. Marketing titan, author, and entrepreneur Bozoma Saint John (The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills) stars alongside Fallon to mentor the creatives and evaluate their work. Also coming soon is the eight-episode pre-historic series Surviving Earth, which takes a journey into prehistory to learn the lessons from past mass extinctions.

Plus, Academy Award-nominated stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo will lead a one-time only “Making of Wicked” special event from the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles this fall.

NEW THIS SUMMER:

Citytv and Citytv+ are heating up this summer with an all-new season of Bachelor in Paradise featuring host Jesse Palmer, bartender Wells Adams, and the newest addition former Bachelorette Hannah Brown, starting Monday, July 7. Then, Steve Harvey hosts a new season of Celebrity Family Feud where teams of celebrities and their families face off to name the top responses to questions posed to 100 people, premiering Thursday, July 10. Plus, don’t miss new episodes of jaw-dropping talent on America’s Got Talent followed by reality competition series Destination X on Tuesdays.

All the newly announced titles and returning hits on Citytv are also available to stream on Citytv+ along with an expansive content library of the latest episodes and past seasons of popular programming from Bravo, Discovery, Food Network, HGTV, Magnolia Network, ID, Cooking, OWN, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Discovery Science, OMNI Television and more.

*Source: Numeris. Ind. 2+, and A25-54, Citytv Total, 2025 Calendar Year to Date, Total Canada AMA (000), AvWkRch (000), CumRch (000), AMA based on originals only, Reach based on Originals + Repeats

**BYTD to Apr 6, 2025, vs Previous BYTD, Citytv Total, CTV Com, CTV Total, Global Total, CBC Total, Total Canada AMA (000) & Shr of Nat Conv. Eng Networks, & Total Hrs Viewed, AvWkRch (000), M-Sun 2a-2a

***Source: Numeris, Ontario, 2+, Citytv vs Toronto Stn Group, AMA, M-F 6-8:30a, 5-weeks post launch

Social Media Links

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About Citytv
A distinctive alternative to conventional programming, Citytv and Citytv streaming (Citytv+) is home to bold dramas, fan-favourite reality TV, Canadian originals, as well as local news and entertainment programs such as CityNews and Breakfast Television. Citytv is a part of Rogers Sports & Media, a division of Rogers Communications Inc., Canada’s leading communications and entertainment company (TSX, NYSE: RCI).

Rogers Sports & Media announced its 2025/26 slate of new and returning programming for its specialty channels, showcasing the newest episodes and latest seasons from top shows like Below Deck Mediterranean and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (Bravo), 100 Day Dream Home (HGTV), Beat Bobby Flay and Tournament of Champions (Food Network), Expedition Files (Discovery), It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (FX), and more.

“Across linear, on-demand and streaming we have an expansive lineup of programming from these sought-after brands, deepening Rogers commitment to bring the best entertainment to Canadians,” said Hayden Mindell, Senior Vice President, Television, Rogers Sports & Media. “Across our specialty portfolio, the content we’ve invested in is unmatched, offering audiences the shows they crave, from their favourite reality tv and true crime to critically acclaimed dramas and comedies.”

NEW TITLES:

The Real Housewives of Rhode Island, Bravo
The Valley: Persian Style (working title), Bravo
The Lowdown starring Ethan Hawke, FX
Alien: Earth starring Sydney Chandler and Timothy Olyphant, FX
Chasing the West with Drew and Jonathan Scott, HGTV
Condemned, HGTV

Let’s whoop it up, Canada! Bravo brings the ultimate dose of reality TV entertainment with all-new seasons of Bravo’s iconic titles including The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, Below Deck Mediterranean, The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Vanderpump Rules, and Southern Charm, plus Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, among others.

Beginning this fall, HGTV nails down new seasons of star-studded transformations on House Hunters, 100 Day Dream Home, Help! I Wrecked My House, Sin City Rehab, and Fixer to Fabulous. Over on Magnolia Network, the charm continues with new seasons of The Last Wright, and more.

The Food Network is serving up a feast of your favourite series chock-full of the brand’s celebrity chefs, spicy showdowns, and decadent desserts including new seasons of Chopped, Holiday Baking Championship, Halloween Baking Championship, Bobby’s Triple Threat, and Beat Bobby Flay, plus Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and Guy’s Grocery Games to round out the schedule.

Discovery brings the world to your fingertips with new seasons of such titles as Homestead Rescue, Josh Gates’ Expedition X and Expedition Unknown, The Last Woodsmen, and Street Outlaws. Plus, don’t miss the summer’s most-anticipated television programming event “Shark Week” as it returns for its historic 37th year on Sunday, July 20.

Investigation Discovery (ID) provides gripping entertainment for audiences seeking true crime stories of murder and betrayal like Death By Fame, Road Rage, Naked Crimes, and Signs of a Psychopath.

FX and FXX remain the home to critically acclaimed dramas, comedies, and docuseries with a range of great shows including a new season of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, the longest-running live-action comedy on TV.

As announced earlier this week, Rogers has greenlit 11 new Canadian original titles and over 115 hours of programming to debut on HGTV and Food Network. In the last decade, Rogers has invested $7 billion in Canadian content. Click here for more details.

Watch the latest from HGTV, Food Network, Discovery, ID, and Magnolia Network on Rogers Xfinity TV, Citytv+, and TELUS Optik TV, or call your TV provider directly if you’re missing these channels in your TV guide.

About Rogers Sports & Media
Rogers Sports & Media is a diverse sports and content company that engages more than 30 million Canadians monthly. The company’s dynamic portfolio of media assets includes more than 50 radio stations, 67 community TV channels, 31 conventional and specialty television channels, e-commerce, and more. Rogers Sports & Media delivers unique storytelling through its range of powerful brands: HGTV, Food Network, Bravo, Citytv, Citytv+, Discovery, ID, OMNI Television, FX, TSC, Breakfast Television, 98.1 CHFI, KiSS, CityNews and Sportsnet – Canada’s #1 sports network. Rogers Sports & Media is a subsidiary of Rogers Communications Inc. (TSX, NYSE: RCI). Visit rogerssportsandmedia.com.

Award-winning comedian, bestselling novelist, and International Emmy nominee Brent Butt will release his very first comedy album EASILY DISTRACTED on June 3, 2025. Produced by Counterfeit Sounds, the album covers a range of topics from haircuts to tourism, and from bigfoot to MMA. Featuring his signature blend of wry observations and effortless storytelling, EASILY DISTRACTED is a master-class in standup from this legendary comedian whose career stretches across five decades!

“I’ve been a fan of comedy albums all my life, so it’s odd that I waited this long before releasing my own. Or maybe it’s prudent, to hang around three or four decades to make sure this comedy thing pans out, and isn’t just a weird phase I’m going through,” says Brent Butt. “Thankfully, the team at Counterfeit stepped up and gave me a kick in the pants. This wouldn’t have come together without them.”

Originally from Tisdale, Saskatchewan, and residing in Vancouver since 1993, Brent Butt has left an enduring mark on Canadian entertainment with his impressive and varied credits. From six seasons of the award-winning sitcom Corner Gas, to the feature films No Clue and Corner Gas: The Movie, to his debut novel Huge, this writer, actor, and author continues to delight audiences across the country.

EASILY DISTRACTED is now playing on Sirius satellite radio, and will be available for download and wide release on additional streaming platforms as of June 9, 2025.

About Brent Butt
Brent Butt has long been considered one of the funniest people in Canada, with a career in stand-up comedy that began in 1988. His credits include numerous appearances at major festivals in multiple countries and being voted Best Male Stand-Up in Canada by his peers. He also created and starred in two successful sitcoms – CORNER GAS (“Funniest Show on TV” as voted by TV Guide Readers, seen in 60 countries) and HICCUPS (multiple Leo and Writers Guild Awards). Add to that, two theatrical comedy films (NO CLUE, CORNER GAS: THE MOVIE) and four seasons of CORNER GAS ANIMATED, and you have one of the most successful comedians that Canada has ever produced.
About Counterfeit

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. Counterfeit’s newest production, the feature
length performance documentary, ‘People Of Comedy: Celebrating 30 Years of The Nubian
Show’ recently debuted on Crave. Other recent credits include the comedy special ‘No Refunds’
from TikTok sensations Darcy & Jer (Crave), ‘One More Time’ (CBC) with comedian D.J. Demers
(The Tonight Show, Conan), ‘Shelved’ (CTV), and 4 seasons of the hit international format ‘Roast
Battle Canada’ (CTV Comedy).

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, and Derek Edwards.

MRG Live and Bruce Hills Entertainment are proud to present Rick Mercer’s Stand-Up for Canada Comedy Tour — a night of laughter, connection, and unapologetically Canadian comedy. This fall, iconic comedian Rick Mercer leads a coast-to-coast tour spotlighting homegrown talent and delivering a night of laughter, and national pride. Tickets will go on sale Friday, June 6, 2025 at 10AM local time via rickmercer.com.

Kicking off September 11, 2025 in Saskatoon, SK and wrapping October 19 in St. John’s, NL, the tour will stop in 21 cities nationwide, bringing together audiences for an unforgettable night of comedy. Joining Mercer on stage are three of Canada’s fastest-rising comedy stars: Juno Award winner Sophie Buddle, Juno-nominated Mayce Galoni, and the brilliantly talented Julie Kim.

At a time when the country needs it most, Mercer is ready to bring Canadians together with his signature wit, political commentary, and unifying voice — making this tour a must-see celebration of Canadian comedy and culture.

MRG Live and Bruce Hills Entertainment present:

Rick Mercer’s Stand-Up for Canada Comedy Tour

September 11, 2025 – Saskatoon, SK – TCU Place

September 12, 2025 – Regina, SK – Conexus Arts Centre

September 13, 2025 – Edmonton, AB – Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium

September 14, 2025 – Calgary, AB – Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium

September 17, 2025 – Vancouver, BC – Vogue Theatre

September 18, 2025 – Vancouver, BC – Vogue Theatre

September 19, 2025 – Victoria, BC – Royal Theatre

September 20, 2025 – Kelowna, BC – Prospera Place

September 21, 2025 – Winnipeg, MB – Burton Cummings Theatre

September 23, 2025 – Kingston, ON – Kingston Grand Theatre

September 25, 2025 – Montreal, QC – L’Olympia

September 27, 2025 – Ottawa, ON – Southam Hall at National Arts Centre

September 28, 2025 – Thunder Bay, ON – Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

October 1, 2025 – London, ON – Centennial Hall

October 2, 2025 – Kitchener, ON – Centre in the Square

October 3, 2025 – Toronto, ON – Queen Elizabeth Theatre

October 4, 2025 – Hamilton, ON – FirstOntario Concert Hall

October 15, 2025 – Moncton, NB – Casino New Brunswick, Molson Canadian Centre

October 16, 2025 – Charlottetown, PEI – Sobey Family Theatre, Confederation Centre of the Arts

October 17, 2025 – Saint John, NB – Imperial Theatre

October 18, 2025 – Halifax, NS – Rebecca Cohn Auditorium

October 19, 2025 – St. John’s, NL – Arts & Culture Centre

CONNECT WITH RICK MERCER

Website | Instagram | X

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 has 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, and he has a comedy special on Dry Bar Comedy. He has also been featured on Don’t Tell Comedy’s Secret Sets, and several of his clips from this appearance have amassed millions of views online.

His television work includes helping to create and star 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 album can be heard regularly on SiriusXM, and was nominated for Comedy Album of the Year at both the JUNOS and the Canadian Comedy Awards.

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 MRG LIVE

Bringing experiences to life for creators, fans, brands and partners.

MRG Live is a leading independent North American concert, large-scale event and entertainment production company. Founded in 2008, MRG Live has since become Canada’s largest concert and entertainment promotion company and expanded into the USA in 2020. The company produces over 1,000 events annually, servicing MRG’s nine owned, operated or programmed venues, and producing concerts and events across Canada and in key US and European markets ranging from clubs and theatres to arenas. Our strategic approach focuses on developing and growing artists and markets, while never forgetting the importance of the fan experience.

ABOUT 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.

Something wicked this way comes to Toronto’s literary scene. The Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) today announced that MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival will return for its fourth spine-tingling year from June 27 to 29, 2025 at University of Toronto (U of T). In a new partnership with Victoria University at U of T, the festival will transform these gothic halls into an epicentre of literary suspense.

MOTIVE will bring together an unprecedented mix of voices this year including: Iceland’s former First Lady Eliza Reid who recently made her fiction debut, international bestseller Shari Lapena returning as a festival favourite, romance star Uzma Jalaluddin crossing into the wildly popular cozy crime category, and thriller master Linwood Barclay continuing to define the genre. This year’s festival will unfold in a new location at University of Toronto – within the fitting gothic revival halls of Victoria University. This new atmospheric backdrop will allow attendees to immerse themselves in the festival’s celebration of crime and mystery storytelling.

“We’re thrilled to be presenting MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival in partnership with Victoria University this year,” says Roland Gulliver, Director of TIFA, “With our new venue, the festival brings together crime and mystery fans for a weekend where analyzing clues, discussing murder weapons, and debating red herrings over coffee is perfectly normal, and everyone appreciates a good plot twist. We’re incredibly proud that our roster of authors is filled with bestsellers from Canada and across the globe, while also featuring veteran talent and new voices.”

This year’s program offers a compelling mix of true crime, interactive events, and literary exploration, appealing to both dedicated readers and aspiring writers. Highlights include the return of forensic science workshops, an immersive Gin & Sin mystery performance, and in-depth panels on Canadian and international crime writing – spanning cozy mysteries to psychological thrillers. The lineup also features masterclasses, Toronto Crime Tours, and timely true crime discussions led by journalists, former FBI agents, and subject-matter experts.

Passes for MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival start at $20 CAD and are on sale now. Canadian booklovers can purchase them at festivalofauthors.ca/motive-2025/. To request complimentary press tickets, please email akasha@thetarogroup.com for more information. Full programming details can be found here – the event will feature appearances by notable authors from Canada, Argentina, France, Korea, Norway, UK and the USA, including but not limited to:

*alphabetical by last name

Linwood Barclay

Toronto-based New York Times bestselling author whose books have been translated into more than two dozen languages and sold millions of copies. Many of Barclay’s books have been optioned for film and television.

Jane Corry

Sunday Times and Washington Post bestseller who has sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide and is a former writer-in-residence at high security male prison.

Sue Hincenbergs

Toronto-based debut novelist (The Retirement Plan), Sue, is a former television producer that spent her career working on award-winning programming ranging from sitcoms, sports, game shows, music specials, award shows and morning television.

Gregg Hurwitz

New York Times #1 internationally bestselling author of 26 thrillers including the Orphan X series. His novels have won numerous literary awards and Hurwitz has written screenplays and television scripts for many of the major studios and networks, and comics for AWA, DC, and Marvel.

Uzma Jalaluddin

Wildly popular romance writer who has made her first transition to cozy crime with her latest novel (Detective Aunty). Previous work includes Much Ado About Nada (2023) and Three Holidays and a Wedding (2023) which was a Good Morning America Buzz Pick.
Denise Mina

Scottish writer specializing in detective fiction including recently rebooting Raymond Chandler’s iconic detective series featuring Philip Marlowe. Mina was inducted into the Crime Writers’ Association Hall of Fame in 2014.

Shari Lapena

1 internationally bestselling author and former lawyer and English teacher, Lapena has written eight suspense novels from her Ontario farm, including The Couple Next Door, which was a runaway global bestseller, selling 4 million copies worldwide.

Eliza Reid

Eliza Reid is a bestselling writer, public speaker, gender equality advocate, cofounder of the acclaimed Iceland Writers Retreat and former First Lady of Iceland. Reid was born and raised in Canada but has lived in Iceland for over twenty years. Her first novel, an Iceland-set mystery called Death of a Diplomat was published earlier this year.

Lisa Unger

New York Times and internationally bestselling author of twenty-two novels, including Close Your Eyes and Count to 10. With books published in thirty-three languages and millions of copies sold worldwide, she is regarded as a master of suspense.

Liann Zhang

Liann Zhang is a first-time novelist and second-generation Chinese Canadian who splits her time between Vancouver, British Columbia and Toronto. Zhang graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in psychology and criminology.

About TIFA:

Where Every Story Finds A Stage

For five decades, the Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) has been bringing writers to readers, authors to audiences as Canada’s longest running literary festival.

We believe stories have the power to transform lives, connect cultures, and build communities. Through innovative programming, exceptional author experiences, and inclusive celebrations of literary diversity, TIFA creates spaces where every reader can discover their next great story and every story finds its perfect audience. TIFA reflects Toronto’s position as one of the world’s most diverse literary communities. From intimate author conversations to innovative events and programmes, every TIFA experience is crafted to remind you why stories matter.

In 2025, TIFA evolves into a year-round celebration of storytelling through three distinct festivals and a year-round programme of events and projects, maintaining our commitment to exceptional programming and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re a lifelong literary devotee or just beginning your reading journey, TIFA offers experiences designed to deepen your connection to the stories that shape our world.

TIFA’s Festivals:

MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival June 27-29 transforms summer into a season of suspense, presenting master storytellers of crime and mystery from Canada and around the world. It’s where literary sophistication meets pulse-pounding entertainment. Presented in partnership with Victoria University at University of Toronto.

Toronto International Festival of Authors October 29 – November 2 our flagship fall celebration, a reimagined five-day format will heighten the festival’s impact, with exclusive opportunities to see Canadian and international literary voices, and fostering cross-genre collaborations from the grassroots to the global, with music, film, poetry slams, performances and free activities. Presented in partnership with Victoria University at University of Toronto.

TIFA Romance November 21-23 presented by Rakuten Kobo. Love stories for those who love stories. Recognizing romance as both the world’s most popular genre and one of literature’s most powerful forces. From Rom-com to Romantasy, sweeping historical romances to whirlwind fantasies, romance fans can discover the books and authors that will write their way into their hearts.

TIFA’s programmes:

TIFA Presents a programme of year-round events bringing world-class authors to Toronto.

Toronto Lit Up (supported by the Toronto Arts Council) presenting book launches of Toronto authors across the city, all year;

International Visitor (IV) Programme, (supported by Ontario Creates and the Canada Book Fund) offering Canadian publishers and agents an unprecedented opportunity to secure international rights and distribution deals.

TIFA gratefully acknowledges support from the Government of Canada – Department of Canadian Heritage; Canada Council for the Arts; Ontario Arts Council; Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund; Toronto Arts Council; Work in Culture Catalyst and Transformation Fund; and Victoria University at University of Toronto Centre for Creativity, plus generous patrons and supporters who understand that great literature is worth investing in.

Union Hotel, an independent lifestyle hotel known for its vibrant, culturally rooted guest experience, is partnering with the Giller Prize to put a unique spin on book clubs with the launch of a new literary series: Union Hotel x Giller Prize Present: #BookTalk, debuting Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

This exclusive and intimate series, rooted in Union Hotel’s storytelling pillar, brings some of Canada’s most acclaimed authors into conversation with notable Canadian interviewers, celebrating CanLit in a way that is thoughtful, contemporary, and community-focused.

“This series is a love letter to Canadian literature, and an invitation to those who love storytelling to see beyond the page,” says Kevin Slean, General Manager, Union Hotel. “We have been inspired by the reading renaissance and revival of book club culture, and of course the popular #BookTok trend, to offer a fresh way to gather, read, and reflect in person.”

Taking place in the Union Hotel lobby, #BookTalk invites guests and literary lovers alike to engage with a Giller Prize-winning, shortlisted, or longlisted author in a relaxed and intimate setting. Each featured author will be interviewed live by a fellow writer or journalist for an evening of thoughtful conversation.

Known for his thought-provoking perspectives, acclaimed author André Alexis kicks off the #BookTalk series on June 24. Interviewed by award-winning journalist and The Globe and Mail’s deputy national editor Rachel Giese, André will discuss his award-winning works, including Fifteen Dogs and his debut novel Childhood, as well as his recently released Other Worlds.

“Canadian stories feed our souls, express our yearnings and are critical elements of our national identity, heritage, and cultural ecosystem. In this current political moment, it is more critical than ever to assert and protect our cultural sovereignty and celebrate our unique narratives, stories that are integral to understanding who we are as a people, who we are in this world,” said Elana Rabinovitch, Executive Director, Giller Prize/The Giller Foundation.

BookTalk Series sessions this summer:

Session One: Tuesday, June 24, 6 p.m. | André Alexis in conversation with Rachel Giese

Session Two: Tuesday, July 15, 6 p.m. | Thomas King (Indians on Vacation, The Back of the Turtle, The Inconvenient Indian)

Session Three: Thursday, August 21, 6 p.m. | Souvankham Thammavongsa (How to Pronounce Knife)

This fall, the Series will host beloved authors Michael Redhill and Ann-Marie Macdonald, as well as the winner of the 2025 Giller Prize in November.

A limited number of tickets for the debut session are now available for purchase. Learn more about Union Hotel x Giller Prize Present: #BookTalk online, visit the image gallery, and engage with Union Hotel on Instagram and TikTok.

About Union Hotel:

Union Hotel is an independent lifestyle property in Toronto’s financial district, steps from Union Station. With 189 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and a vibrant café and lounge, Humble Donkey, Union Hotel celebrates individuality, creativity, and connection. The hotel’s dynamic offerings include a nod to the city’s iconic train station with a Split Flap Display behind the front desk and the UH Marketplace, featuring hyper-local retail offerings that support emerging and small businesses. By weaving local culture into every aspect of the guest experience, Union Hotel invites guests to live life unscripted.

About the Giller Prize:

Founded by Jack Rabinovitch in 1994, the Giller Prize is Canada’s leading and most influential literary prize for fiction. The Giller Effect has been recognized industry-wide as one of the top drivers of book sales in Canada. The Giller Prize awards $100,000 annually to the author of the best Canadian novel, graphic novel or short story collection published in English, and $10,000 to each of the finalists. To date, the Giller Prize has awarded more than two million dollars to Canadian writers. The award is named in honour of Jack Rabinovitch’s wife, the late literary journalist, Doris Giller.

Today, Paramount+ revealed the official trailer for the highly anticipated original drama series DEXTER®: RESURRECTION.

The trailer made its global debut at CCXP Mexico City during the DEXTER: RESURRECTION panel featuring showrunner and executive producer Clyde Phillips, executive producer and star Michael C. Hall, series star David Zayas and executive producer Scott Reynolds.

The series premieres with two episodes on Friday, July 11, 2025 exclusively on Paramount + in Canada. Remaining episodes will premiere weekly.

Internationally, the title will launch exclusively on Paramount+ in Canada, the U.K., Australia, Latin America, Brazil, Italy, Germany, Switzerland and Austria.

From Emmy®-nominated showrunner and executive producer Clyde Phillips, the original drama series stars SAG and Golden Globe® winner Michael C. Hall (DEXTER®, Six Feet Under) in the titular role of Dexter Morgan. Production is ongoing in New York.

DEXTER: RESURRECTION, a continuation of DEXTER®: NEW BLOOD, takes place weeks after Dexter Morgan (Hall) takes a bullet to the chest from his own son, as he awakens from a coma to find Harrison (Jack Alcott) gone without a trace. Realizing the weight of what he put his son through, Dexter sets out for New York City determined to find him and make things right. But, closure won’t come easy. When Miami Metro’s Angel Batista (David Zayas) arrives with questions, Dexter realizes his past is catching up to him fast. As father and son navigate their own darkness in the city that never sleeps, they soon find themselves deeper than they ever imagined – and that the only way out is together.

In addition to Hall, DEXTER: RESURRECTION stars Uma Thurman as Charley, David Zayas as Detective Angel Batista, Jack Alcott as Dexter’s son Harrison Morgan, Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine as Blessing Kamara, Kadia Saraf as Detective Claudette Wallace, Dominic Fumusa as Detective Melvin Oliva, Emilia Suárez as Elsa Rivera, with James Remar as Dexter’s father Harry Morgan and Peter Dinklage as Leon Prater. Neil Patrick Harris, Krysten Ritter, Eric Stonestreet and David Dastmalchian are also set to guest star as Lowell, Mia, Al and Gareth, respectively.

Most recently, DEXTER®: ORIGINAL SIN, a prequel series that follows Dexter (played by Patrick Gibson) as he transitions from student to serial killer, debuted in December of last year and delivered the most streamed SHOWTIME® premiere in history with more than 2.1 million global cross-platform viewers. The series is now streaming on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME.

DEXTER: RESURRECTION is executive produced by Emmy nominee Clyde Phillips (DEXTER, DEXTER: ORIGINAL SIN, NURSE JACKIE), who also returns to serve as showrunner, and produced by SHOWTIME Studios and Counterpart Studios. Michael C. Hall (DEXTER, Six Feet Under) also serves as executive producer along with Scott Reynolds (Jessica Jones), Tony Hernandez (Emily in Paris), Lilly Burns (Russian Doll) and Marcos Siega (DEXTER: NEW BLOOD). Monica Raymund (DEXTER: ORIGINAL SIN) is set to direct four episodes with Marcos Siega directing six episodes for the series. The series is distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution.