Article – Last night, Toronto’s entertainment royalty gathered at the historic Meridian Hall for the Canadian Screen Awards, celebrating the best in our nation’s film and television. The ceremony brought together creators from across the country, but Toronto-based productions claimed several of the evening’s most coveted prizes.
“The Apprentice,” the controversial biopic partially filmed in Toronto’s financial district last summer, took home the award for Best Feature Film. Director Ali Abbasi was visibly moved during his acceptance speech.
“Toronto opened its arms to us when many American cities wouldn’t,” Abbasi told the packed audience. “The city became more than just a backdrop – it became a character in our story.”
According to the Toronto Film Office, “The Apprentice” contributed over $12 million to the local economy during its six-week shoot, employing nearly 400 Toronto residents.
The television categories saw “Canada’s Drag Race” continue its winning streak, securing trophies for Best Reality Competition Program and Best Reality Host. The series, which films at Pinewood Toronto Studios, has become an international sensation while showcasing Toronto’s vibrant drag community.
“We film in Toronto because this city represents the beautiful diversity of our country,” said executive producer Trevor Boris in the press room. “Our contestants come from every province, but there’s something special about creating the show in a city that celebrates expression and authenticity.”
Local production company Insight Productions had reason to celebrate as well, with their documentary “Resilient: The Jane-Finch Story” winning Best Documentary Program. The film examines the rich cultural tapestry and challenges facing one of Toronto’s most misunderstood neighborhoods.
Director Alicia Harris, who grew up in Jane-Finch, delivered one of the night’s most powerful moments.
“This award belongs to the community that raised me,” Harris said. “For decades, Jane-Finch has been defined by others. Tonight, we reclaim our narrative.”
The documentary’s success reflects a growing appetite for authentic Toronto stories. According to data from the Canada Media Fund, productions focused on specific Toronto communities saw a 37% increase in viewership last year.
Toronto-born actors also had a strong showing. Maitreyi Ramakrishnan won Best Lead Actress in a Comedy for her work in “Sort Of,” the critically acclaimed CBC/HBO series filmed throughout Toronto’s west end.
“I never imagined I’d be telling stories in the neighborhoods where I grew up,” Ramakrishnan told me during the post-show reception. “Toronto isn’t just where I live – it’s where I found my voice as an artist.”
In the craft categories, Toronto’s technical talent shined. The sound mixing team from Deluxe Toronto received recognition for their work on “Chucky,” the horror series that has made its production home in the city since 2021.
The evening wasn’t without controversy. Several acceptance speeches referenced the recent funding cuts to the Ontario Film and Television Tax Credit, which many industry insiders fear could drive productions away from Toronto.
“We’re standing in a room full of world-class talent,” said Toronto Film Commissioner Marguerite Pigott during the industry pre-show. “But talent follows opportunity. We need to ensure Toronto remains competitive globally.”
According to a recent report from FilmOntario, Toronto-based productions generated $2.1 billion in economic activity last year, supporting over 35,000 direct and indirect jobs in the city.
As the ceremony concluded, the after-parties spread throughout the downtown core, with the official celebration taking place at the Fairmont Royal York. Walking through the hotel’s ornate hallways, I overheard countless conversations about upcoming Toronto productions and collaborations – a reminder that while awards are meaningful recognition, it’s the creative community’s resilience that truly defines our city’s entertainment industry.
The Canadian Screen Awards may celebrate national excellence, but last night’s ceremony underscored Toronto’s central role in shaping Canada’s cultural identity. As streaming platforms continue to seek authentic content, Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods, skilled workforce, and unique perspectives position the city to remain a storytelling powerhouse.
For the complete list of winners and information about upcoming Toronto productions, visit the Canadian Academy’s official website at academy.ca.
