Comedian Mae Martin has been selected to host the upcoming 55th annual Juno Awards, as revealed by organizers on Thursday. Following their successful hosting stint at the 2024 Canadian Screen Awards and the premiere of the top-ranked Netflix show “Wayward,” Martin will be the first solo comedian to host the Juno ceremony since Russell Peters in 2009.
Reflecting on their journey, Martin shared memories of their early experiences in the industry and expressed excitement about hosting the prestigious event in Toronto. Scheduled for March 29 in Hamilton, this opportunity comes shortly after Martin’s first Juno nomination for comedy album of the year.
The decision to appoint Martin as host marks a departure from recent years, which saw repeat hosts such as Michael Bublé, Nelly Furtado, and Simu Liu. Martin aims to infuse the show with a relaxed and energetic vibe, akin to a live music performance, encouraging the audience to engage fervently.
The event will showcase performances by acclaimed R&B/soul artist Daniel Caesar, who will also receive the international achievement award, and folk/roots singer-songwriter William Prince. Additionally, the lineup includes hometown favorites Arkells and The Beaches, with the legendary Joni Mitchell receiving a lifetime achievement award and Nelly Furtado being inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
This year’s Juno Awards come at a pivotal moment in Canada’s artistic landscape, with a renewed emphasis on the country’s unique cultural contributions. Martin’s optimism about the state of Canadian art reflects their pride in the success of Canadian content, exemplified by their own Netflix show and the widespread popularity of “Heated Rivalry.”
A few category changes are also in store for this year’s awards, including the introduction of the Latin music recording of the year category and updated eligibility criteria for rap album/EP and rap single of the year. These changes aim to highlight homegrown talent and support the growth of Canada’s hip-hop community.
The 55th annual Juno Awards are set to take place on March 29 at the recently renovated TD Coliseum in Hamilton. Viewers can catch the live broadcast on various CBC platforms, including CBC-TV, CBC Gem, CBC Radio One, CBC Music, and CBC Music’s YouTube Channel at 8 p.m. ET.
