Comedian Mae Martin has been announced as the host for the 55th annual Juno Awards, as revealed by organizers on Thursday. Following their successful 2024 hosting role at the Canadian Screen Awards and the premiere of the Netflix hit show, “Wayward,” Martin will be the first solo comedian to host the ceremony since Russell Peters in 2009.
In an interview with CBC News at the Toronto headquarters, Martin reflected on their journey from being a nervous 13-year-old guest on a radio show to now feeling more at ease at 38. They expressed their hopes of exuding confidence and warmth when hosting the show in Hamilton on March 29, just two years after receiving their first Juno nomination for comedy album of the year.
The Junos have had a series of recurring hosts in recent years, with Michael Bublé, Nelly Furtado, and Simu Liu taking the helm multiple times. Martin aims to bring a relaxed and energetic vibe to the event, likening it to a live music show with a touch of raucousness.
The lineup for the show includes performances by Daniel Caesar and William Prince, alongside Arkells, the Beaches, Joni Mitchell receiving a lifetime achievement award, and Nelly Furtado being inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Martin’s hosting role coincides with a pivotal moment in the Canadian awards scene, marked by a renewed emphasis on the value and uniqueness of Canadian artistry amidst economic tensions with the United States. The recent Juno Awards have served as a platform for Canadian artists to assert their national pride and creative identity.
The upcoming awards will introduce some category changes, including the debut of the Latin music recording of the year award and updated eligibility criteria for rap categories to spotlight Canadian talent.
The 55th Juno Awards will be held on March 29 at the newly renovated TD Coliseum in Hamilton and will be broadcast live on various CBC platforms at 8 p.m. ET.