Comedian Mae Martin has been selected as the host for the upcoming 55th annual Juno Awards, as announced by the event organizers on Thursday. Following their recent hosting duties at the Canadian Screen Awards in 2024 and the launch of their show “Wayward” on Netflix, Martin will be the first solo comedian to host the Juno Awards since Russell Peters in 2009.
In an interview with CBC News at their Toronto headquarters, Martin expressed their excitement about hosting the ceremony in Hamilton on March 29. They reflected on their nervousness during a radio show appearance at the age of 13 and mentioned feeling more confident now at 38, aiming for a relaxed and engaging atmosphere during the event.
The lineup for the show includes performances by R&B/soul artist Daniel Caesar, who will also be honored with the international achievement award, and folk/roots singer-songwriter William Prince. Additionally, Arkells from Hamilton and Toronto’s the Beaches are set to perform. The legendary Joni Mitchell will be presented with a lifetime achievement award, while Nelly Furtado will be inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Martin’s hosting role comes at a significant time in the Canadian awards scene, with a growing emphasis on the value of Canadian artistic contributions amid international tensions. They highlighted the importance of celebrating Canadian cultural identity and expressed optimism about the country’s artistic landscape.
Several category changes are expected at this year’s Juno Awards, including the introduction of the Latin music recording of the year category and updated eligibility criteria for rap album/EP and rap single categories, focusing on Canadian talent. The event will take place on March 29 at the recently renovated TD Coliseum in Hamilton, airing live on various CBC platforms.