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By BILL HARRIS

Special to The Lede

&nbsp;

If Sheldon and Leonard from THE BIG BANG THEORY ever got a chance to watch the new spin-off STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE, what would they think of it?

“They would argue about it,” said Bill Prady, co-creator of both shows, during a recent press conference. “We talked about this. This is the kind of show that they would watch and argue about. I think they would like the science-fiction puzzle aspect of it. They would probably focus on the mythology of it.”

“But they'd pick it apart,” declared Chuck Lorre, also a co-creator of both shows.

Will the massive and intensely loyal fan base of THE BIG BANG THEORY “pick apart” STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE, or will they embrace it as part of their wider comedic family? The answer to that question will begin to reveal itself when the latter premieres, Thursday, July 23, on Crave.

Unlike THE BIG BANG THEORY and its first two spin-offs, YOUNG SHELDON and GEORGIE &amp; MANDY’S FIRST MARRIAGE, STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE does not follow a traditional sitcom format. It’s more of a sci-fi fantasy/comedy.

“Chuck (Lorre) actually made a joke really early on, that it was more DOCTOR WHO than WHO’S THE BOSS?, just to kind of distinguish the two genres a little more clearly,” said John Ross Bowie, who plays Barry Kripke, during a visit to Toronto for the Bell Media Upfront in June. “And he's absolutely right.”

The premise of STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE is that Sheldon and Leonard, who were played by Jim Parsons and Johnny Galecki in THE BIG BANG THEORY, built a mysterious and powerful device that accidentally was damaged by comic-book store owner Stuart Bloom, played by Kevin Sussman. Thus, a “multiverse Armageddon” was created, and Stuart – essentially by default – is tasked with fixing everything.

"What's your plan?" asks Denise, played by Lauren Lapkus, in the first episode.

“I don't really have one,” Stuart replies honestly. “I'm kind of new to the action genre."

So is everyone involved.

“We've heard people say many, many times that THE BIG BANG THEORY is now a comfort show – you know, 'we have it on in the background,’ ” Sussman said. “But STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE does not seem like the type of show that will lull you to sleep.”

“Well, if you watch it enough times … ” said Lapkus, prompting laughter from her castmates.

Bowie observed, “there's a lot of pyro in that first episode. I'm going to say, there's more pyro in the first episode of this show than there was in 12 seasons of THE BIG BANG THEORY. I say that with a lot of confidence. So yeah, it's an abrupt departure, but I think that's also really exciting, and kind of unprecedented.”

Indeed, STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE is an “abrupt departure” stylistically, but there’s one simple concept that links everything, according to Lorre.

“As far as the melding of (sci-fi) with comedy is concerned, something's funny or it's not,” Lorre said. “All the special effects and computer graphics cannot make something funny that's not funny. So we just had to remain honest with ourselves as we wrote these things that we were telling the truth. We think this is truly funny. We hope you agree.”

And with that concept in mind, viewers don’t necessarily need to be hardcore devotees of THE BIG BANG THEORY to follow STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE. The general plot structure of the latter becomes quite obvious right away.

As Lorre put it, “hopefully if you see a post-apocalyptic nightmare landscape, and there's a functioning comic-book store in it, that's still funny, whether or not you watch THE BIG BANG THEORY.”

As for the unique title of the series, co-creator Zak Penn acknowledged that a few other options were considered, but STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE “sounded right.”

“And it’s literal if you watch the show,” said Brian Posehn, who plays Bert.

“Yeah, it's kind of wonderful to title the show with the spoiler,” Lorre agreed.

To which Bowie added, “Death of a Salesman works the same way.”

&nbsp;

billharristv@gmail.com

@billharris_tv

Worlds Collide in More Ways Than One in STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE

By BILL HARRIS Special to The Lede &nbsp; If Sheldon and Leonard from THE BIG BANG THEORY ever got a chance to watch the new spin-off STUART FAILS TO...

TORONTO (July 21, 2026) – The biggest sporting event in the world, FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122;, touched down in Canada for the first time ever this summer, and Bell Media’s exclusive live coverage of the tournament captivated audiences across the country. Overall, 30.5 million unique Canadian viewers (75% of Canada’s population) watched live tournament coverage on TSN, RDS, CTV, Noovo, and Crave, according to preliminary data from Numeris.

Overall, the 104 tournament matches at FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; attracted a per-game average audience of 1.6 million viewers, an increase of more than 50% compared to the 2022 tournament. 

As the official broadcaster and streamer of FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122;, Bell Media’s exclusive live coverage united Canadians like never before, smashing audience records and delivering unprecedented engagement across all platforms.  

“Throughout this incredible tournament, Bell Media’s ambitious coverage united fans, broke audience records, and made this the biggest FIFA World Cup&#x2122; in Canadian history,” said Kevin Cluett, SVP, Subscription Services, Sports, and Out of Home, Bell Media. “The commitment to excellence across our organization was visible in all aspects of our business, bringing together premium content and cross-platform activation. These exceptional results demonstrate the full power of Bell Media’s connected ecosystem, and our ability to transform passion-fueled content into audience growth and consumer engagement, connecting Canadian audiences and our advertising partners to the biggest sporting event on the planet.” 

“With thrilling matches, passionate fans here on home soil in stadiums and on the streets, and the history-making performance of Canada’s Men’s National Team, Canadians will never forget FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122;,” said Shawn Redmond, VP, Bell Media Sports. “On behalf of the whole team at TSN and RDS, we were honoured to give audiences across the country a front row seat to a phenomenal month of international sport at its highest level. My biggest congratulations goes out to our talented team members across every department, whose skill and dedication was on full display not just during this tournament, but in the years leading up to it. The effort they put into this once-in-a-lifetime event was the driving force that made our multi-platform coverage an overwhelming success.” 

&nbsp;
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; Final Audience Record 
The unforgettable FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; culminated on Sunday afternoon with a dramatic, extra-time victory by Spain, attracting a record average audience of 6.4 million viewers on TSN, RDS, CTV, Noovo, and Crave, making it the most-watched FIFA WORLD CUP&#x2122; match ever in Canada, according to preliminary data from Numeris. The average audience for the match was up +32% compared to the 2022 Final. 

Overall, 14.6 million unique Canadian viewers tuned in for the record-breaking match, which saw audiences peak with 9.05 million viewers at 5:57 p.m. ET as Spain secured the 1-0 win in extra time for the second FIFA WORLD CUP&#x2122; victory in their history. 

Streaming audiences continued to surge, with audiences up more than 200% compared to the 2022 Final. 

 
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; Overall Audience Figures 
Bell Media’s exclusive live coverage of FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; recorded massive audience figures across all platforms, including the following highlights: 

 	The unforgettable run of Canada’s Men’s National Team saw them advance to the Round of 16 for the first time, with their match vs. Morocco attracting an average audience of 5.4 million viewers, the most-watched match of any non-Final ever
 	A total of 68 matches at FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; attracted an average audience of at least 1 million viewers
 	A total of 38 Group Stage matches at FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; attracted an average audience of at least 1 million viewers, with the average audience for Group Stage matches increasing by +43% compared to 2022 
 	The tournament’s first-ever slate of Round of 32 matches attracted an average audience of 1.9 million viewers
 	With an average audience of 2.5 million viewers, Round of 16 matches increased more than 100% compared to 2022
 	The tournament’s Semifinal matches attracted an average audience of 3.7 million viewers, with Argentina vs. England becoming the most-watched Semifinal match on record with 4.1 million viewers
 	Canadians consumed more than 400 million hours of FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; live matches, up nearly 160% compared to the 2022 tournament
 	TSN saw massive fan engagement for FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; content across its leading social media accounts, including more than 1.2 billion video views and more than 2.5 billion impressions
 	More than 91 million views for FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; content on the TSN YouTube channel 

 
Top 10 Most-Watched Matches of FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; 
Audiences connected with thrilling FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; matches throughout the tournament involving both Canada’s Men’s National Team and their favourite teams from across the globe. By average audience, the Top 10 most-watched matches at the tournament were: 

 	Spain vs. Argentina, Final, July 19: 6.4 million viewers (most-watched FIFA World Cup&#x2122; match on record)
 	Canada vs. Morocco, Round of 16, July 4: 5.4 million viewers (most-watched non-Final match on record) 
 	Canada vs. Qatar, Group Stage, June 18: 5.3 million viewers (most-watched Group Stage match on record) 
 	Canada vs. South Africa, Round of 32, June 28: 5.2 million viewers 
 	Argentina vs. England, Semifinals, July 15: 4.1 million viewers (most-watched Semifinal match on record) 
 	Canada vs. Switzerland, Group Stage, June 24: 4.1 million viewers 
 	Norway vs. England, Quarter-finals, July 11: 3.8 million viewers 
 	Spain vs. France, Semifinals, July 14: 3.2 million viewers 
 	Portugal vs. Croatia, Round of 32, July 2: 3.2 million viewers 
 	Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Group Stage, June 12: 3.2 million viewers 

 
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; on Crave 
Canada’s largest homegrown streamer, Crave, played a pivotal role in ensuring Canadian audiences had the widest access to the biggest FIFA World Cup&#x2122; in history. 

Crave’s Sports hub featured a massive slate of compelling FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; content, providing a seamless, all-in-one streaming experience for the beautiful game, including daily pre-game and recap shows, TSN’s soccer podcast PARK THE BUS, and much more. 

Throughout the tournament, FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; live matches consistently ranked among the most-watched content on Crave. 

 
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; Production 
The foundation of TSN’s exclusive live coverage of the tournament was built on an expansive, years-long investment in Canadian soccer and Canada’s Men’s National Team. This investment included ongoing news, analysis, digital and social media content, podcasts, in-depth original features highlighting Canadian players, and live specials on the tournament’s Final Draw, the announcement of Canada’s roster, and more. 

Along with every moment of action on the pitch, TSN’s all-star FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; broadcast team led in-depth storytelling, news, analysis, and on-the-ground reporting that spotlighted Canada’s history-making performance throughout the tournament.  

During the tournament, TSN’s live production was focused around the network’s purpose-built studio at Vancouver’s Jack Poole Plaza, which quickly evolved into a cultural moment and a joyous gathering place for fans to watch matches, as fans came together to cheer on their favourite teams. 

 
FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; Brand Partnerships 
By leveraging the combined power of CTV, TSN, RDS, Noovo, Crave, digital, audio, social, and Astral Out-of-Home, Bell Media amplified FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; across every stage of the consumer journey – building attention, extending engagement, and creating more opportunities for brands to be connected with both Canadian audiences as well as the unforgettable moments of this beloved tournament. 

For more than two years leading up to the event, Bell Media’s Brand Partnerships team worked in collaboration with production teams and premier advertising partners to activate a milestone commercial campaign, integrating more than 30 of the country’s biggest brands with one of Canada’s most historic sports moments. Brand integrations appeared across live matches, social media, digital, pre-match, halftime, and post-match shows, including custom features with Bell, FanDuel, The Coca-Cola Company, Loblaws, BMO, Hyundai, and more, transforming the tournament into a premier marketing platform that delivered measurable value for advertisers. 

 

Source: Numeris, Preliminary Data, Total Canada, P2+, TSN, CTV Com, CTV2 Total, Noovo Total, RDS, RDS2, audiences inclusive of PPM encored digital live streams. 6/11/26 to 7/19/26 vs. 11/20/22 to 12/18/22 | Live Streaming Audience Claims based on internal viewership data

Bell Media Smashes Records with Canada’s Biggest FIFA World Cup&#x2122; Ever, as FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; Reaches More Than 30 Million Canadians on TSN, RDS, CTV, Noovo, and Crave

TORONTO (July 21, 2026) – The biggest sporting event in the world, FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122;, touched down in Canada for the first time ever this su...

After 102 matches across more than five weeks of world-class soccer, FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; reaches its conclusion this Sunday, July 19, as Spain takes on defending champions Argentina in the Final. With unforgettable moments throughout FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122;, members of the TSN team shared some of their favourite memories from the tournament. 

&nbsp;
Luke Wileman, FIFA World Cup&#x2122; Host 




“My favourite moment of the FIFA World Cup&#x2122; was the singing of the national anthem in Toronto before the first Canada game. To be sitting in our regular broadcast booth in a stadium where I’d been calling games for two decades and witnessing such an historic moment, knowing so many family and friends were also experiencing it in the crowd, was incredible.”  

&nbsp;

James Duthie, FIFA World Cup&#x2122; Host 



“When Stephen Eustaquio scored that goal in Los Angeles to make the Round of 16 – seeing the pure joy on Atiba  and Julian  faces, who have both given so much to that team and program, and now were there to watch them make history, will forever be one of my favourite moments of my career.”  

"The interview with Ismaël  pictured above blew me away. I had never seen an athlete, in any sport, be so positive so quickly after having his dream crushed. The fact that his first thought after breaking his leg was about his teammates, making sure they were okay, is about as selfless as you can be.” 

&nbsp;

Lindsay Hamilton, FIFA World Cup&#x2122; Host 



"This photo was taken after singing our national anthem alongside thousands of Canadians at Jack Poole Plaza. One of the best parts of this job is seeing how sport brings people together. That connection was on full display throughout our month in Vancouver, where we watched strangers become instant friends – celebrating, singing, laughing, and cheering, united by their love of soccer. A memory I'll carry with me forever." 

&nbsp;

Steven Caldwell, FIFA World Cup&#x2122; Analyst 



“My favourite memory is post-game of the Canada/South Africa match in the astounding Los Angeles Stadium. Luke and I took a picture as we waited on the boys to finish their post-game show. We had just called the game of our lives, and the adrenaline was still coursing through our veins. You can tell by our smiles in this photo!” 

&nbsp;

Eoin Maher, Senior Producer, TSN 

“The Vancouver set stole the show. This photo taken outside Los Angeles Stadium is special because it came right after Stephen Eustaquio’s goal to send Canada to the Round of 16. It was one of the biggest moments in Canadian sports history, and our TSN team (not all pictured here!) met the moment.”  

&nbsp;

Nicole Anderson, Senior Production Manager, TSN 


“Two moments truly stand out for me. The first was in Toronto listening to the Canadian national anthem and watching the players on the pitch. I had tears in my eyes as I realized all the work that went into bringing Canadians this moment. The second was in Houston while we took a group photo. I felt extremely proud of everyone at TSN and Canada’s Men’s National Team for making it as far as they did.”  

&nbsp;

Ken Volden, Executive Producer, TSN 



“The Vancouver set at Jack Poole Plaza was a highlight for me. It took a lot of work to get there, but that backdrop and the energy around it became one of the stars of our tournament coverage. Also, this photo of Shawn  and I in Toronto before Canada’s opening match. We’ve taken this photo at stadiums across North America – we have pictures at Grey Cups, World Juniors, and much more. We’ve worked together a long time, and this photo is symbolic of the many amazing experiences this job has given us.”  

&nbsp;

Live coverage of FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; continues with France vs. England in the Bronze Final on Saturday, July 18 at 5 p.m. ET on TSN.  

The tournament concludes Sunday, July 19 at 3 p.m. ET as Spain takes on Argentina in the Final, on TSN, CTV, and streaming on Crave. Expanded pre-game coverage begins at 12 p.m. ET, which includes the Closing Ceremony at 1:30 p.m. ET, headlined by global superstar Post Malone. 

The championship match also features the inaugural FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; Final Halftime Show, co-headlined by Madonna, Shakira, BTS, and Justin Bieber, alongside performances from Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay.   

An Unforgettable Tournament: TSN Team Members Share Their Most Memorable Moments from FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122;

After 102 matches across more than five weeks of world-class soccer, FIFA WORLD CUP 2026&#x2122; reaches its conclusion this Sunday, July 19, as Spain...

Toronto, ON (July 16, 2026) - Today, the Canadian Country Music Association® (CCMA®) is thrilled to reveal the official nominees for the 2026 CCMA Awards, taking place at SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon, SK on September 19. This year's CCMA Award nominees include 192 artists and industry professionals, with 71 earning their first-ever nomination. Available exclusively on CTV and streaming on Crave through the live CTV channel, the 2026 CCMA Awards bring the artistry, identity, and creative spirit of Canadian country music to a national stage for one unforgettable night.

Topping this year’s nominations with seven nods each are Josh Ross (Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans’ Choice, Male Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Musical Collaboration of the Year, Video of the Year), Cameron Whitcomb (Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans’ Choice, Male Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Alternative Country Album of the Year presented by National Music Centre, Songwriter(s) of the Year presented by SOCAN), while James Barker Band (Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans’ Choice, Group or Duo of the Year, Single of the Year), Thelma &amp; James (Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Group or Duo of the Year, Alternative Country Album of the Year presented by National Music Centre, Video of the Year, Songwriter(s) of the Year presented by SOCAN), and Tenille Townes (Female Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Alternative Country Album of the Year presented by National Music Centre, Musical Collaboration of the Year, Songwriter(s) of the Year presented by SOCAN) each earn five.

Celebrating four nominations is Owen Riegling (Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans’ Choice, Male Artist of the Year), with first time nominee Morgan Griffiths (Fans’ Choice, Breakthrough Artist or Group of the Year presented by FACTOR, Single of the Year), Nate Haller (Single of the Year, Musical Collaboration of the Year, Songwriter(s) of the Year presented by SOCAN), Brett Kissel (Entertainer of the Year, Fans’ Choice, Video of the Year), and Meghan Patrick (Female Artist of the Year, Songwriter(s) of the Year presented by SOCAN, Video of the Year) boasting three apiece.

Now in its second year, the Francophone Artist of the Year presented by Spotify category will be awarded to a Francophone act (solo, duo, or group) that has demonstrated exceptional achievements within the current eligibility period. This year’s nominees are Francis Degrandpré, Fred Dionne, Gab Forest, Vince Lemire, and Laurence St-Martin.

Country music fans across Canada can help choose the winner for the Breakthrough Artist or Group of the Year presented by FACTOR (Sully Burrows, Morgan Griffiths, Zach McPhee, Brock Phillips, Josh Stumpf) and the Fans' Choice Award (Jade Eagleson, Morgan Griffiths, James Barker Band, Brett Kissel, Tyler Joe Miller, The Reklaws, Owen Riegling, Josh Ross, Josh Stumpf, Cameron Whitcomb) by casting their vote at www.ccma.org/fanvoting - voting will be live today (7/16), at 3:00 p.m. ET.

Country Music Week 2026 kicks off in Saskatoon on Wednesday, September 16, offering fans the unique opportunity to celebrate the magic of country music and the genre’s brightest homegrown stars, all culminating with the 2026 CCMA Awards on September 19, featuring previously announced performances from Dean Brody, James Barker Band, The Reklaws, Owen Riegling, and homegrown Saskatchewan stars including Weyburn’s Tenille Arts, Shaunavon’s Hunter Brothers, Hudson Bay’s Kalsey Kulyk, and Rocanville’s Jess Moskaluke, with more exciting announcements to come.

Country Music Week 2026 and the 2026 CCMA Awards are made possible through the support of the City of Saskatoon, Discover Saskatoon and Saskatoon Destination Marketing Hotels (SDMH), the Government of Saskatchewan, and the 2026 Host Committee. Bell Media will deliver extensive multi-platform 2026 CCMA Awards coverage and content across broadcast, radio, digital, and social media properties, including iHeartRadio Canada’s PURE COUNTRY.

Click Here For The Full List Of The 2026 CCMA Award Nominees

Click Here For 2026 CCMA Award Nominee Graphics and the Nom Day Toolkit 

For more CCMA news, follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube or visit www.ccma.org.

&nbsp;

###

Media Contacts:

For the Canadian Country Music Association

Red Umbrella P.R. | press@redumbrellapr.com

For CTV

Natalie Cole | Natalie.Cole@bellmedia.ca

For Discover Saskatoon &amp; SDMH

Leanne Schinkel | lschinkel@discoversaskatoon.com

For CCMA Awards + Country Music Week Sponsorship Inquiries

Sponsorship@ccma.org

THE CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATIONⓇ UNVEILS THE NOMINEES FOR THE 2026 CCMA AWARDS

Toronto, ON (July 16, 2026) - Today, the Canadian Country Music Association® (CCMA®) is thrilled to reveal the official nominees for the 2026 CCMA Awa...

Bell Media

TORONTO (July 16, 2026) – Bell Media announced today a first-look development agreement with acclaimed television producer Jeff Frost, and his production company, Bristol Circle Entertainment, to create original content for CTV and Crave. This first-time partnership focuses on developing premium scripted series for audiences in Canada and around the world.

This pact reflects the shared mission to elevate Canadian content, uniting Bell Media's unparalleled reach and commissioning expertise with Bristol Circle Entertainment's proven track record of creative excellence and industry influence.

"Jeff has spent decades identifying exceptional creative talent and developing some of TV’s most compelling stories including BREAKING BAD, OUTLANDER, and most recently PLURIBUS,” said Justin Stockman, VP, Global Content, Bell Media. “By combining Bristol Circle Entertainment’s creative pedigree, and Bell Media’s market-leading platforms, we have a distinctive advantage in creating and delivering high-quality original drama series.”

"Collaborating with Bell Media is a tremendous privilege and honor. I look forward to partnering with Justin Stockman, Carlyn Klebuc, Rachel Goldstein-Couto, and their exceptional teams to create acclaimed and ground-breaking series together,” said Jeff Frost, Chairman and CEO, Bristol Circle Entertainment. “Bell Media's proven profile of bold risk-taking and passion for compelling, characer-driven series that captivate both Canadian and international audiences aligns perfectly with Bristol Circle’s vision and sensibilities. Roosevelt and I can’t wait to push boundaries and engage in world-class storytelling with this inimitable team."

Bristol Circle Entertainment operates under the leadership of Jeff Frost, the former President of Sony Pictures Television Studios. Roosevelt Brown serves as Head of Development for Bristol Circle. Under Frost’s guidance, the company is developing a diverse and innovative slate of projects, headlined by the critically acclaimed series PLURIBUS.

Bell Media continues to strengthen its position as a leader in creating premium original content, bolstering a pipeline of market-leading projects for Canadian and international audiences. Past commitments include agreements with Point Grey Pictures, Lionsgate, PAGEBOY Productions, Tom Green Productions Canada Inc., and most recently with Celeste Parr’s Punctuation Media.

Bell Media Expands Investment in Premium Original Drama with First-Look Development Deal with Jeff Frost’s Bristol Circle Entertainment

TORONTO (July 16, 2026) – Bell Media announced today a first-look development agreement with acclaimed television producer Jeff Frost, and his product...

July 17 – THE RUNNING MAN *Crave Premiere*  

 	The 2025 action, sci-fi, and adventure movie THE RUNNING MAN stars Glen Powell as Ben Richards, as he enters a deadly competition where contestants must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassin. Desperate for money to save his sick daughter, he’s convinced by the show's ruthless producer to enter the game as a last resort. Ratings soon skyrocket as Ben's defiance, instincts and grit turn him into an unexpected fan favorite, as well as a threat to the entire system. THE RUNNING MAN makes its debut on Crave Friday, July 17.
 

***Media Note: Assets for Crave programming are available at the Bell Media press site, The Lede, here   

   

Programming Premieres and Key Finales for the week of July 16 – 22. 

*All Programming Subject to Change*    

 

Movies

July 17 – MIDSOMMAR 

July 17 – THE STRANGERS: CHAPTER 3 

July 17 – MOB COPS 

July 17 – THE RUNNING MAN 

July 17 – NOUVELLE VAGUE 

July 17 – THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SEARCH FOR SQUAREPANTS 

July 17 – INTERSTELLAR 

July 22 – ROCKY'S CAT-ASTROPHE *Canadian Title* 

 

STARZ

July 16 – WATERMARK *Canadian Title*  

July 16 – HOW SHE MOVE *Canadian Title* 

July 17 – MIDSOMMAR 

July 17 – THE NEW ROMANTIC *Canadian Title* 

 

Additional Highlights

July 17 – RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE ALL STARS S11 E12 (Season Finale) 

July 20 – BIG WOLF ON CAMPUS S1-3 *Canadian Title* 

July 22 – SUPA STRIKAS S3 (Crave Premiere) 

 

Next Day on Crave

July 16 – CASH CAB S10 E25-26 (Season Finale) *Canadian Title* *following MUCH  

July 20 – SNAPPED S36C (Season Premiere) *following OXYGEN 

July 16 – 22: Crave Weekly Streaming Overview  

July 17 – THE RUNNING MAN *Crave Premiere*   The 2025 action, sci-fi, and adventure movie THE RUNNING MAN stars Glen Powell as Ben Richards, as he ent...

TORONTO (July 14, 2026) – Crave’s suspenseful new crime drama, ANNA PIGEON, debuts in Canada August 7. Filmed in Calgary and starring Canadian actress Tracy Spiridakos (CHICAGO P.D.), the 10-episode hour-long Crave originals series airs Fridays at 10 p.m. ET on USA Network, and streams on Crave.

From director Lea Thompson (Back to the Future) and Canadian showrunner Morwyn Brebner (SAVING HOPE), and based on the New York Times best-selling Anna Pigeon mystery series by Nevada Barr, the mystery series follows Anna Pigeon (Spiridakos), a former urbanite who became a park ranger after a devastating loss changed the trajectory of her life forever. While Anna tries to outrun her demons, her focus turns to solving crimes that have taken place within national park grounds, no matter who or what gets in her way.

The series also stars Ronnie Rowe (STAR TREK: DISCOVERY) as Frederick Stanton, an FBI agent and charismatic wanderer who chases crimes through national parks and keeps his cool, except when it comes to Anna; and Paulina Alexis (RESERVATION DOGS) as Zoey Bear Child, a young ranger coming into her own who looks to Anna as a mentor.  Melanie Scrofano (WYNONNA EARP) joins the series as Bethany Lopez, the wife of park ranger Manny Lopez (Manuel Rodriguez-Saenz, BRIA MACK GETS A LIFE), who is working to find her place within the ranger community. Additional cast members include Tricia Helfer (BATTLESTAR GALACTICA), Kim Coates (SONS OF ANARCHY), Cooper Levy (OVERCOMPENSATING), Jordan Sledz (HEARTLAND), Ryan Northcott (TRIBAL), Crystle Lightning (THREE PINES), and Nikki Hallow (HIGH SCHOOL).

ANNA PIGEON is produced by Cineflix, December Films, and SEVEN24 Films for USA Network in association with Bell Media. Morwyn Brebner serves as showrunner, with Lea Thompson directing. Brebner and Thompson executive produce alongside Todd Berger, Brett Burlock, Sonia Hosko, Julie Di Cresce, Peter Emerson, Gordon Gilbertson, Tom Cox, and Jordy Randall. Leslie Cowan serves as producer. For Bell Media, Rachel Goldstein-Couto is Head of Development, Original Programming; Production Executive is Kelsey-Ann Maria; Sarah Fowlie is Head of Production, Original Programming; Carlyn Klebuc is General Manager, Original Programming; and Justin Stockman is Executive Producer and Vice President, Global Content. Cineflix Rights is the exclusive international worldwide distribution partner.

Gripping New Crave Original, ANNA PIGEON Premieres August 7 on USA Network and Crave

TORONTO (July 14, 2026) – Crave’s suspenseful new crime drama, ANNA PIGEON, debuts in Canada August 7. Filmed in Calgary and starring Canadian actress...

The following release was issued by the Television Academy announcing the 78th EMMY AWARD nominations.

In Canada, the 78TH EMMY AWARDS, hosted by Emmy Award-winner Mariska Hargitay, will air Monday, Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on CTV and streams next day on Crave.
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(LOS ANGELES, July 8, 2026) — Nominations for the 78th Emmy® Awards were announced today from the Wolf Theatre in the Saban Media Center. The live ceremony was hosted by Emmy-winner Liza Colón-Zayas (The Bear) and Emmy-winner Jeff Hiller (Somebody Somewhere) along with Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego.

Among nominations for acclaimed performers, such as Steve Carell (Rooster), Jamie Lee Curtis (The Bear), Harrison Ford (Shrinking), Lisa Kudrow (The Comeback), Gary Oldman (Slow Horses) and Michelle Pfeiffer (Margo’s Got Money Troubles), a slew of new faces and breakout performances were recognized, including Taylor Dearden (The Pitt), Chase Infiniti (The Testaments), Sarah Pidgeon (Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. &amp; Carolyn Bessette) and Connor Storrie (Saturday Night Live).

“This year’s nominees represent the extraordinary creativity and artistry that make television such a dynamic form of entertainment,” said Television Academy Chair Cris Abrego. “The breadth of work recognized this year — from intimate character-driven comedies and satires to fantasy, thrillers and costume dramas — demonstrates that great storytelling knows no bounds. We’re proud to celebrate the artists and craftspeople behind these remarkable achievements and look forward to honoring them at the Emmys this September.”

Hacks has set the record for most nominations in a single year in the Comedy category with 24 (previous record jointly held in 2025 by The Studio and in 2024 by The Bear, each with 23 nominations) and The Pitt led this year’s Drama category with 25 nominations.

There are 28 first-time performer nominees across all performer categories this year, including: Brittany Allen (The Pitt), Tal Anderson (The Pitt), Patrick Ball (The Pitt), Leslie Bibb (Hacks), Taylor Dearden (The Pitt), Dale Dickey (Widow’s Bay), Fiona Dourif (The Pitt), Ernest Harden Jr. (The Pitt), Gerran Howell (The Pitt), Charlie Hunnam (Monster: The Ed Gein Story), Chase Infiniti (The Testaments), Tina Ivlev (The Pitt), Jeff Kober (The Pitt), Hamish Linklater (Widow’s Bay), Charles Melton (Beef), Sepideh Moafi (The Pitt), Carey Mulligan (Beef), Kate O’Flynn (Widow’s Bay), Sarah Pidgeon (Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. &amp; Carolyn Bessette), Miriam Shor (Pluribus), Megan Stalter (Hacks), Connor Storrie (Saturday Night Live), Joy Sunday (DTF St. Louis), Carlos-Manuel Vesga (Pluribus), Matt Vogel (The Muppet Show), Lauren Weedman (Hacks), Karolina Wydra (Pluribus) and Youn Yuh-Jung (Beef).

This year’s nominations are also characterized by a significant number of multi-hyphenates who received multiple nominations showcasing their talents as performer/writer/director/producers across different genres.

Jason Bateman received a remarkable four nominations this year (performance and directing for Black Rabbit; performance and producing for DTF St. Louis), while three nominations were announced for Quinta Brunson (performance, writing and producing for Abbott Elementary), Paul W. Downs (performance, writing and producing for Hacks), Matthew Rhys (performance and producing for Widow's Bay and performance for The Beast in Me), Jason Segel (performance and producing for Shrinking and producing for Shrinking - In It Together), Martin Short (performance and producing for Only Murders in the Building and host for Match Game) and Noah Wyle (performance, directing and producing for The Pitt).

Additional performers with multiple nominations this year include: Sterling K. Brown (performance and producing for Paradise), Claire Danes (performance and producing The Beast in Me), Colman Domingo (performance for The Four Seasons and Euphoria), Elle Fanning (performance and producing for Margo's Got Money Troubles), Dakota Fanning (performance for All Her Fault and producing for Margo's Got Money Troubles), David Harbour (performance and producing for DTF St. Louis), Oscar Isaac (performance and producing for Beef), Jimmy Kimmel (producing for Jimmy Kimmel Live! and host for Who Wants to Be a Millionaire), Lisa Kudrow (performance and writing for The Comeback), Charles Melton (performance and producing Beef), Laurie Metcalf (performance for Monster: The Ed Gein Story and Hacks), Carey Mulligan (performance and producing Beef), Nick Offerman (performance for Margo's Got Money Troubles and Death By Lightning), Michelle Pfeiffer (performance and producing for Margo's Got Money Troubles), Keri Russell (performance and producing The Diplomat), Sarah Snook (performance and producing for All Her Fault).

The nominations rosters may be revised in cases where names or titles are incorrect or appeals for changes — including the addition or removal of names — are approved by the Television Academy’s Emmy Awards Committee. Producer eligibility is based primarily on title; producer nominees for reality program categories and eligible consulting producers on comedy and drama series will be announced early August and may increase the number of multiple nominees. Final-round online voting begins Aug. 17, 2026.

The complete list of Emmy nominations, compiled by the independent accounting firm Ernst &amp; Young LLP, is attached along with key categories. This and other Academy news and updates are available at Emmys.com.

The 78th Emmy Awards, hosted by Emmy Award-winner Mariska Hargitay, will air Monday, Sept. 14, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT from the Peacock Theater at L.A. LIVE., airing live coast-to-coast on NBC and streaming on Peacock. The Creative Arts Emmy Awards will take place on Saturday, Sept. 5, and Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026. 

78th Emmy® Awards Nominations Revealed Recognizing Beloved Television Icons and a Host of Fresh Faces

The following release was issued by the Television Academy announcing the 78th EMMY AWARD nominations. In Canada, the 78TH EMMY AWARDS, hosted by Emmy...

July 9 – Crave Original Series CANADA'S DRAG RACE ALL STARS * Premiere*  

 	The new Crave Original series CANADA’S DRAG RACE: ALL STARS, premieres Thursday, July 9 at 9 p.m. ET. The six-episode, one-hour spin-off of Crave’s Canadian Screen Award-winning series, welcomes back nine queens with unfinished business, competing for the first-ever title of “Canada’s Ultimate All-Star,” and a cash prize of $100,000. CANADA’S DRAG RACE royalty make her-story as the franchise’s first all-drag judging panel, with Brooke Lynn Hytes returning as host and judge alongside Season 1 winner Priyanka and Season 1 contestant Jimbo. Available in English and French, new episodes of CANADA’S DRAG RACE: ALL STARS stream Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on Crave. 
 

***Media Note: Assets for Crave programming are available at the Bell Media press site, The Lede, here   

Programming Premieres and Key Finales for the week of July 9 – 15. 

*All Programming Subject to Change*    

&nbsp;

Movies

July 9 – THE EVIL DEAD 

July 10 – THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY 

July 10 – THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES 

July 10 – THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG 

July 10 – A PRIVATE LIFE 

July 10 – SWEETNESS *Canadian Title* 

July 10 – LOVE LETTERS 

July 10 – INFINITE 

July 10 – STITCH HEAD 

 

STARZ

July 9 – ONE DAY IN THE LIFE OF NOAH PIUGATTUK *Canadian Title* 

July 9 – THE OTHER HALF *Canadian Title* 

 

Additional Highlights

July 9 – CANADA'S DRAG RACE ALL STARS Season 1 Episode 1 (Season Premiere) 

July 9 – PROJECT RUNWAY USA Season 22, Episode 1 (Season Premiere) *following CTV 

July 11 – LOVE ISLAND: AFTERSUN S8 E5 (Season Finale) 

July 12 – LOVE ISLAND USA Season 8 Episode 30 (Season Finale) 

July 14 – French Crave Original DÉCORE TA VIE, 25 ANS Season 1 Episode 10 (Season Finale) 

 

Next Day on Crave

July 14 – THE REAL MURDERS OF ATLANTA Season 4 Episode 1 (Season Premiere) *following OXYGEN 

July 9 – 15: Crave Weekly Streaming Overview

July 9 – Crave Original Series CANADA'S DRAG RACE ALL STARS * Premiere*   The new Crave Original series CANADA’S DRAG RACE: ALL STARS, premieres Thurs...

TORONTO (July 7, 2026) – The forecast is calling for more heat as Crave turns up the temperature when new romantic reality series TEMPTATIONS UNDER THE SUN: CYPRUS debuts with two episodes on Friday, August 7. With English audiences already tuning into OD: TENTATIONS AU SOLEIL, the #1 French-language reality series on Crave*, the one hour, 10-episode spin-off series follows 17 of Canada’s most daring singles as they face temptation, strategy, and unexpected twists under the Mediterranean sun. Click HERE for the series trailer. 

The series follows a weekly release schedule, with two new episodes streaming on subsequent Fridays until the finale on September 4.  

Guided by renowned sexologist, intimacy expert, and host of the Lovers By Shan podcast, Shan Boodram, contestants are paired up to take on steamy challenges, wild parties, surprise arrivals, and heart-wrenching eliminations, all while earning valuable points that can unlock major advantages. Only the boldest and most magnetic duo is crowned “Canada’s Most Seductive Couple” and returns home with an impressive $50,000 cash prize.  

As previously announced, the cast of hot Canadian singles soaking up the Cypriot sun, include: Alexus (Winnipeg, MB), Emily (Vancouver, BC), Emma (Vancouver, BC), Helena (Toronto, ON), Ite (Calgary, AB), Jenny (Laval, QC), Josh (Burlington, ON), Kaelen (Kelowna, BC), Mackenzie (Toronto, ON), Matt (Calgary, AB), Naomi (Toronto, ON), Obi (Winnipeg, MB), Quinton (Oakville, ON), Sam (London, ON), Shemar (Toronto, ON), Silas (Toronto, ON), Valentina (Montreal, QC). 

TEMPTATIONS UNDER THE SUN: CYPRUS is produced by Productions J in collaboration with Crave. Francis Laforest is Executive Producer; Julie Snyder is Executive Producer, Carine Sansregret is Head of Development; Rose Gauthier-Robitaille is Line Producer; Sabrina Roy is Creative Producer; Jean-Philippe Perron is Consultant. For Bell Media, Alexis McLaren is Production Executive, Original Programming; Sarah Fowlie is Head of Production, Original Programming; Rachel Goldstein-Couto is Head of Development, Original Programming; Carlyn Klebuc is General Manager, Original Programming; and Justin Stockman is Vice President, Global Content. 

The series is distributed internationally by Sphere Abacus.

Sun-Kissed and Hard to Resist, the New Crave Original TEMPTATIONS UNDER THE SUN: CYPRUS Debuts August 7

TORONTO (July 7, 2026) – The forecast is calling for more heat as Crave turns up the temperature when new romantic reality series TEMPTATIONS UNDER TH...