Comedian Mae Martin has been selected to host the 55th annual Juno Awards, as announced by organizers. Following their successful hosting role at the 2024 Canadian Screen Awards and the premiere of their Netflix show, “Wayward,” Martin will be the first solo comedian to host the ceremony since Russell Peters in 2009.
Reflecting on their journey from being a nervous 13-year-old guest on a radio show to hosting the Juno Awards at age 38, Martin shared their excitement in an interview at CBC News in Toronto. They expressed their hope for a relaxed and energetic atmosphere at the event, aiming for a vibrant, non-formal ambiance akin to a live music show.
The Toronto-born multi-talented artist will grace the stage in Hamilton on March 29, following their previous Juno nomination for comedy album of the year. This announcement marks a departure from the tradition of recurring hosts, with Michael Bublé, Nelly Furtado, and Simu Liu having taken the helm in recent years.
The upcoming Juno Awards ceremony will feature performances by R&B/soul musician Daniel Caesar, who will also be honored with the international achievement award, and folk/roots singer-songwriter William Prince. Additionally, Arkells, the Beaches, Joni Mitchell, and Nelly Furtado will be part of the star-studded lineup and special recognitions at the event.
Against the backdrop of a heightened focus on Canadian artistry amid global challenges, Martin’s hosting role signifies a celebration of the country’s unique cultural identity. Embracing the success of Canadian productions like their own Netflix show and the popular series “Heated Rivalry,” Martin expressed pride in showcasing and championing Canadian content.
As the Junos embrace new categories and eligibility criteria to spotlight local talent, the 55th annual Juno Awards promise an exciting evening on March 29 at the recently renovated TD Coliseum in Hamilton. Audiences 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.