The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada announces that co-creators, showrunners, and executive producers Alethea Arnaquq-Baril and Stacey Aglok MacDonald will be honoured with the Breakthrough Award at this year’s third annual event on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto.

This year’s Breakthrough Award is presented in partnership with the Indigenous Screen Office and recognizes creators whose work is not only exceptional, but transformative — artists whose storytelling signals a meaningful shift in the industry. It celebrates those who are redefining what stories are told, who gets to tell them, and how they reach audiences in Canada and around the world.

As the creative forces behind the Arctic comedy-drama North of North, Aglok MacDonald and Arnaquq-Baril have brought to life a bold and original comedy that both entertains and meaningfully expands the lens of Canadian storytelling. Rooted in Northern perspective and lived experience, the series marks a defining moment for the industry — one that centres authenticity, place, and creative ambition.

The series also marks Netflix’s first series from Canada, co-produced with CBC in partnership with APTN.

Beyond North of North, Arnaquq-Baril and Aglok MacDonald have consistently demonstrated the ability to bring bold, original perspectives to the screen while creating space for underserved voices and communities to be seen and heard. It is this combination of vision, impact, and forward momentum that makes them such deserving recipients of this honour.

Aglok MacDonald and Arnaquq-Baril are part of a new wave of creators reshaping the screen industry — building pathways for stories that have too often been underrepresented, while demonstrating the global appetite for culturally specific, locally rooted narratives.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is a first-of-its-kind summit and awards event that brings the industry together across film, television, and music to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Canadian women who are driving the industry forward in their respective fields.

Previously announced honourees include Andrea Martin who will receive the ICON Award and Malin Akerman who will receive the Impact Award, to be presented by herThe Hunting Wives co-star, Brittany Snow at the May 28 gala. Additional honourees and special guests will be announced in the coming weeks.

For tickets and more information, including schedule and programming details, visit womeninentertainment.ca.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada announces that Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor Andrea Martin will be honoured with the prestigious ICON Award at this year’s third annual event on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto. 

Few performers have shaped the fabric of comedy like Andrea Martin. From her groundbreaking work on SCTV to her celebrated career on Broadway and across film and television, her artistry has defined eras, influenced generations, and expanded what comedic and dramatic performances can be.

Andrea Martin: 2026 ICON Award Honouree

Moving effortlessly between stage and screen, satire and sincerity, ensemble and lead, Martin has consistently raised the standard of performance, inspiring audieces in Canada and around the world.

From playing Robin in Godspell in Toronto in 1972 in a company that included future stars Gilda Radner, Martin Short, Eugene Levy, and Victor Garber; to the juggernaut My Big Fat Greek Wedding film series; to her one-woman show, Andrea Martin: Final Days, Everything Must Go!; Martin has amassed a prolific body of work on stage and screen, both in front and behind the camera, that has earned her two Tony Awards, two Emmy Awards, and a long list of honours, nominations, and accolades awarded over more than five decades, including being named a laureate of the 2024 Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement.

Martin’s iconic role on SCTV started in 1976 when she joined then-unknowns John Candy, Dave Thomas, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Harold Ramis, and Joe Flaherty on the beloved Canadian sketch comedy series.  Among her many memorable portrayals, Martin most notably brought leapord-wearing station manager Edith Prickley to life, alongside some beloved real-life characterizations.

Her recent work on the acclaimed series Evil, Only Murders in the Building, The Gilded Age, and Overcompensating have only further endeared her to worldwide audiences.

Martin’s enduring influence, unmistakable voice, and commitment to craft have cemented her status as a true Canadian icon, one whose impact on comedy and storytelling continues to resonate across the industry today.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is a first-of-its-kind summit and awards that brings the industry together across television, film, and music to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Canadian women who are driving the industry forward in their respective fields.

Martin joins previously announced honouree Malin Akerman, who will receive the Impact Award at the May 28 gala, with more honourees and special guests to follow in the coming weeks..

For tickets and more information including all schedule and programming details visit www.womeninentertainment.ca.

(Photo credit: Jeff Vespa)

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada today announced that internationally acclaimed actor and producer Malin Akerman will receive the prestigious IMPACT Award at this year’s third annual event on Thursday, May 28 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada’s IMPACT Award was created to recognize the positive impact of Canada’s trailblazers whose careers have advanced the representation of women in the entertainment industry, and whose artistic vision and excellence have inspired audiences at home and around the world.

Malin Akerman: 2026 IMPACT Award Honouree

Over almost 30 years Malin Akerman has amassed a body of work demonstrating intelligence, substance, and versatility. Her many roles portray women on screen with depth, wit, vulnerability, and strength, helping to shape contemporary storytelling on the world stage.

Spanning over 75 major studio features, independent films, and acclaimed television series, Akerman has consistently demonstrated remarkable range, seamlessly moving between comedy, drama, and complex character-driven roles.

Most recently, Akerman has captivated audiences with her commanding performance in the smash breakout hit The Hunting Wives, a gripping drama from Lionsgate and 3 Arts that has quickly become a cultural conversation piece. Her portrayal anchors a series that has resonated with viewers and critics alike, cementing her as a dynamic leading force capable of elevating bold stories. The series is available for streaming on Crave in Canada.

Making her acting debut on a Canadian science fiction series in 1997, Akerman has built a global profile while maintaining deep Canadian roots. Her work continues to inspire audiences and industry peers alike, reflecting a commitment to powerful storytelling and to redefining what leadership looks like for women in entertainment today.

Raised in Ontario from the age of two years, Akerman’s recognition stands as both inspiration and affirmation: that global impact and Canadian identity are not mutually exclusive, but powerfully intertwined.

The IMPACT Award is presented in partnership with Lionsgate.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is a first-of-its-kind summit and awards that brings the industry together across television, film, and music to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Canadian women who are driving the industry forward in their respective fields.

For tickets and more information including all schedule and programming details visit www.womeninentertainment.ca.

(Photo credit: Hunter Moreno)

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada announces an exciting lineup of powerhouse speakers at this year’s second annual event on Thursday, May 29, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto.

Hosted by Canadian comedian and YouTube creator Julie Nolke, this year’s event will feature a series of dynamic, women-centred sessions designed to inspire, inform, and ignite meaningful action. These sessions will explore key issues, opportunities, and challenges unique to women across the entertainment industry — on screen, behind the scenes, and in executive leadership roles:

The Art of Leadership, presented in partnership with Blink49 Studios

Moderated by Global Media and Tech Leader Kirstine Stewart, this session offers a compelling conversation with the women driving strategy, innovation, and influence across film, television, and digital media, including: Valerie Creighton, C.M., S.O.M., President & CEO, Canada Media Fund; Michela Di Mondo, Executive Vice President Distribution, Canada, International, Fremantle; Carlyn Klebuc, General Manager, Original Programming, Bell Media; Kat Kowalski, Senior Vice President, International Content Programming and Acquisitions, Pluto TV; Anita Lee, Chief Programming Officer, Toronto International Film Festival; and Kerry Swanson, Chief Executive Officer, Indigenous Screen Office (ISO).

The Power of Music, presented in partnership with FACTOR

Moderated by Music Trade Journalist, Karen Bliss, this engaging panel presents the leaders shaping Canada’s music landscape who are setting the agenda and amplifying new voices. Speakers include: Julie Adam, President & CEO, Universal Music Canada; Jully Black, Canada’s Queen of R&B and Soul; Kristen Burke, President, Warner Music Canada; Keziah Myers. Executive Director, ADVANCE, Canada’s Black Music Business Collective; Meg Symsyk, President and CEO, FACTOR; and Patti-Anne Tarlton, Vice-Chair, Live Nation Concerts Canada.

(Caption Top-Bottom, Left-Right: Julie Adam, Jully Black, Kristen Burke, Keziah Myers, Meg Symsyk, Patti-Anne Tarlton)

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is a first-of-its-kind summit and Awards bringing the industry together across television, film, and music to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Canadian women driving the industry forward in their respective fields.

This year’s honourees include Margaret Atwood, recipient of the ICON Award; Tantoo Cardinal, receiving the Equity in Entertainment Award; Jeanne Beker, honoured with the Impact Award; Amrit Kaur is named the Breakthrough Award honouree; and Christina Jennings, this year’s Glass Ceiling Award honouree.

For tickets and more information, including the day’s full schedule and programming details, visit www.womeninentertainment.ca.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada will honour award-winning producer Christina Jennings, Founder, Chairman and President of Shaftesbury, with the Glass Ceiling Award at this year’s second annual event on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada Glass Ceiling Award was created to recognize excellence in leadership in the Canadian entertainment industry from women who are setting the agenda and driving the industry forward.

Christina Jennings is the Founder, Chairman, and President of Shaftesbury, one of Canada’s most enduring independent production companies. A visionary producer of award-winning scripted storytelling, Jennings is known for her ability to build globally recognized, long-running series such as Murdoch Mysteries and Hudson & Rex. In addition to these flagship titles, Shaftesbury’s slate of work includes Slasher, Departure, SisterS, Frankie Drake Mysteries and Ruby & The Well. Most recently, Shaftesbury wrapped the first seasons of the one-hour crime drama Underbelly (starring Stephen Amell, Hamza Hak and Minnie Driver) and the hour-long drama Irish Blood (starring Alicia Silverstone).

Throughout her career, Jennings has collaborated with some of the most internationally recognized artists, including Jessica Tandy, Margaret Atwood – whose work Shaftesbury has adapted – as well as Tatiana Maslany, Elliot Page, Christopher Plummer, Eric McCormack, Victor Garber, Wendy Crewson and Archie Panjabi.

A dedicated mentor, she has made supporting emerging talent a cornerstone of her work through Shaftesbury and her longstanding involvement with the Canadian Film Centre, where she served as Chair of the Board for over a decade. Her contributions to the industry have been recognized with numerous honours, including the Order of Canada, Order of Ontario, the Academy Achievement Award, the MIPCOM Lifetime Achievement Award, and the PROFIT Award for Excellence in Entrepreneurship at RBC’s Canadian Woman Entrepreneur Awards.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is a first-of-its-kind summit and Awards bringing the industry together across television, film, and music to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Canadian women who are driving the industry forward in their respective fields. As previously announced, Margaret Atwood will receive the ICON Award, Tantoo Cardinal will receive the Equity in Entertainment Award, Jeanne Beker will be honoured with the Impact Award, and Amrit Kaur will receive the Breakthrough Award at this year’s event.

For tickets and more information, including the day’s full schedule and programming details, visit www.womeninentertainment.ca.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada will honour celebrated author, poet and activist Margaret Atwood with the prestigious ICON Award at this year’s second annual event on Thursday, May 29 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto.

Margaret Atwood

2025 ICON Award Honouree

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada’s ICON Award was created to recognize Canada’s cultural icons who have advanced the representation of women in the media and entertainment industry, and whose artistic vision and excellence have inspired audiences at home and around the world.

Margaret Atwood is the author of more than 50 books of fiction, poetry, critical essays and graphic novels. Her 1985 classic, The Handmaid’s Tale, was adapted into an Emmy Award-winning MGM Television series now in its sixth and final season on Hulu and Crave. It was followed in 2019 by a sequel, The Testaments, which was a global number one bestseller and won the Booker Prize. In November, Atwood will publish Book of Lives, her long-awaited memoir.

Atwood’s other works of fiction include Cat’s Eye, a finalist for the 1989 Booker Prize; Alias Grace, which won the Giller Prize in Canada and was also adapted into an award-winning CBC series; The Blind Assassin, winner of the 2000 Booker Prize; The MaddAddam Trilogy; and Hag-Seed. She has received numerous awards, including the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, the Franz Kafka International Literary Prize, the PEN Center USA Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Los Angeles Times Innovator’s Award.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is a first-of-its-kind summit bringing the industry together across television, film, and music to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Canadian women driving the industry forward in their respective fields.

View the complete schedule of all panels and speakers here.

As previously announced, acclaimed actress Tantoo Cardinal will receive the Equity in Entertainment Award; iconic fashion and lifestyle journalist Jeanne Beker will be honoured with the IMPACT Award; and actor, writer, comedian and activist Amrit Kaur will receive the Breakthrough Award at this year’s event.

For tickets and more information, visit www.womeninentertainment.ca.

(Photo credit: Luis Mora)

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada today announced that iconic fashion and lifestyle journalist Jeanne Beker will receive the IMPACT Award at this year’s second annual event on Thursday, May 29 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto. Beker will also be featured in a special keynote interview as part of the 2025 event, followed by an exclusive book signing of her recent memoir, Heart on My Sleeve: Stories from a Life Well Worn.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada’s IMPACT Award was created to recognize the positive impact of Canada’s very own trailblazers who have changed the narrative for women in media by pushing for more opportunities for better representation, voices and bold storytelling reflecting the authentic lived experiences of women.

Jeanne Beker

2025 IMPACT Award Honouree

For almost five decades, Jeanne Beker has been at the forefront of arts and culture. She earned her position as one of Canada’s most recognizable celebrities as a founding member of MuchMusic and the iconic host of Fashion Television. A media trailblazer and successful entrepreneur, Beker is also the daughter of Holocaust survivors and a breast cancer survivor. In her inspirational talks, she shares how she cultivated the drive, resiliency, and tenacity needed to fuel her incredible career, as well as the courage to face life’s challenges while empowering audiences to do the same.

Beker’s incredible broadcasting career began with CBC Radio when she became an arts reporter in St. John’s, Newfoundland. After three years, she returned to Toronto to work at CHUM radio and was soon co-hosting Citytv’s ground-breaking music magazine series, The New Music. In 1983, she helped launch “the nation’s music station,”MuchMusic, before becoming the host of the legendary Fashion Television, which ran for 27 years and aired in 130 countries, establishing her as Canada’s face of fashion.

A seasoned newspaper and magazine columnist and features writer, Beker was editor-in-chief of FQ and SIR magazine from 2003 to 2008. She has also been a frequent guest on myriad lifestyle shows and at the creative helm of numerous fashion lines under her own eponymous label. Since 2015, Beker’s been the style editor at The Shopping Channel (TSC) where she hosts the popular series, Style Matters. She also previously hosted the podcast Beyond Style Matters. In addition, she is the co-producer of Kingdom of Dreams, a four-part documentary series examining fashion’s golden age, and the bestselling author of six books.

A breast cancer survivor, Beker’s journey has provided her with a rich, eye-opening experience. Her candour in discussing the peaks and valley of her journey has inspired people around the world. She’s now on a mission to help normalize the conversation surrounding cancer and help eradicate the fear associated with the disease.

Active with several charitable organizations, Beker has received honorary doctorates from St. Mary’s University and OCAD University. She’s also the recipient of numerous awards, including a Special Achievement Award from the Canadian Academy of Cinema and Television and a Crystal Award from Toronto Women in Film and Television. She’s also been named to the Order of Canada, inducted into the American Marketing Association’s Hall of Legends, and honoured with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is a first-of-its-kind summit bringing the industry together across television, film, and music to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Canadian women who are driving the industry forward in their respective fields. As previously announced, Tantoo Cardinal will receive the Equity in Entertainment Award at this year’s event. Additional award recipients and programming for Women in Entertainment Canada 2025 details will be announced later this spring.

For more information visit www.womeninentertainment.ca.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada today announced that acclaimed actress Tantoo Cardinal will receive the Equity in Entertainment Award at this year’s second annual event on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto. The award will be presented to Cardinal in partnership with the Indigenous Screen Office.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada’s Equity in Entertainment Award was created to recognize women in the Canadian entertainment industry who are working to reflect and amplify the voices and stories of underrepresented communities.

2025 Equity in Entertainment Honouree

Of Cree and Métis heritage, Tantoo Cardinal is a celebrated actress who over a 50-year career has performed in many significant films and television series including Dances with Wolves, Killers of the Flower Moon, Legends of the Fall, Black Robe, Hold the Dark. Lead or recurring roles in series Longmire, Echo, Stumptown, Three Pines, Godless, Blackstone, Moccasin Flats and North of 60 to name just a few. Cardinal has received many prestigious awards for her extensive body of work, including the Earle Grey Award for lifetime achievement, she was Inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame, and received the Governor Generals Award for Artistic Achievement.

Cardinal was made a member of the Order of Canada in 2009 “for her contributions to the growth and development of Aboriginal performing arts in Canada, as a screen and stage actress, and as a founding member of the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company.”

An inspiring leader in the growth of Indigenous performing arts in Canada, she is a tireless mentor and started a Film School in Northern Alberta for Indigenous youth. Cardinal is also a passionate environmental activist.

The Equity in Entertainment Award was created in 2016 by The Hollywood Reporter as part of its Women in Entertainment annual event in Los Angeles, with past honorees including Selena Gomez, Kerry Washington, Issa Rae, and Amy Pascal. The first Equity in Entertainment Canada Award was presented to Deepa Mehta at the inaugural Women in Entertainment Canada Awards in Toronto on May 30, 2024.

The Hollywood Reporter Women in Entertainment Canada is a first-of-its-kind summit bringing the industry together across television, film, and music to celebrate and recognize the achievements of Canadian women who are driving the industry forward in their respective fields. For more information visit www.womeninentertainment.ca.

Additional award recipients and programming for Women in Entertainment Canada 2025 details will be announced this spring.