The hit TV series “Heated Rivalry” swept the Canadian Screen Awards on Sunday, clinching top honors like best drama series and best lead actor for Hudson Williams. The show came into the event on a winning streak, having already won 13 awards out of 18 nominations the previous night. In total, “Heated Rivalry” secured 16 Screen Awards in its debut season.
Additionally, the CBC/Netflix sitcom “North of North” triumphed in the comedy category, winning best comedy series and best lead actor for Anna Lambe. The show, set in the Arctic, received a total of seven awards during the previous gala, including accolades for best writing and best supporting actor, and garnered 20 nominations.
In the realm of movies, the comedy “Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie” emerged victorious, claiming the award for best motion picture over R.T. Thorne’s thriller “40 Acres.”
Toronto-born musician Jay McCarrol was recognized for his outstanding performance in a lead role in the movie adaptation of the cult-classic series. The film accumulated a total of six awards, with Matt Johnson winning best supporting actor in a comedy for his role in the movie, which he also directed and co-wrote.
Fans gathered at the CBC Broadcast Centre in Toronto to catch a glimpse of the stars from “Heated Rivalry,” Williams and Sophie Nélisse, who have helped propel the series to global fame. The show’s romantic storyline between two hockey players portrayed by Williams and Connor Storrie has captured audiences worldwide.
Nélisse, who plays Williams’s on-screen girlfriend and received a Screen Award for best supporting actor on Saturday, was honored with the prestigious Radius Award. This award celebrates individuals whose work has garnered international acclaim and contributed to Canada’s global reputation.
The gala was hosted by Calgary-born actor and comedian Andrew Phung, known for his role in “Kim’s Convenience,” who expressed excitement about the increasing recognition of Canadian content in the mainstream media. The event also paid tribute to comedian Mike Myers, presenting him with the Icon Award for his significant contributions to the industry both nationally and internationally.
The Canadian Screen Awards ceremony made history by being broadcast across multiple networks and streaming platforms, including CBC, CTV, and Global, showcasing and supporting Canadian talent. The event featured a touching tribute to the late Canadian actor Catherine O’Hara, with her longtime friend and co-star Eugene Levy honoring her illustrious career.
The evening concluded with an emotional in memoriam segment, remembering the artists and industry figures who passed away in the past year. The winners and nominees in the major categories were announced, celebrating the best of Canadian film and television talent.
[For a complete list of winners and nominees at the 2026 Canadian Screen Awards, visit the official website.]