Kelly Townsend

Streamers take CRTC to court over directive to contribute to local news
The organization representing streamers such as Netflix and Pluto TV has filed a leave to appeal and a judicial review with the Federal Court of Appeal.

Bell Media seeking injunction, damages in Rogers, WBD deal
The company is seeking an injunction and damages against Warner Bros. Discovery and Rogers Sports & Media.

Corus cancels Big Brother Canada after 12 seasons
The reality competition series would not be renewed for an additional season.

ZoomerMedia buys Mobile Syrup from Blue Ant Media
The tech site is the latest acquisition for the multi-platform media company, which has been expanding its reach.

CRTC begins consultations on broadcasting accessibility
Feedback on closed captioning, described video and audio description will help the CRTC form policies on accessibility for broadcasters and streaming services.

CRTC sets 5% base contributions for foreign-owned streamers
The funds will be distributed to targeted areas of interest and are expected to generate $200 million in additional support for Canada’s broadcasting system.

Upfronts 2024: Citytv rounds out its fall schedule with acquisitions
The Golden Bachelorette and Brilliant Minds lead Citytv’s fall primetime schedule, with Stags set as a Citytv+ exclusive.

CRTC approves APTN proposal to consolidate feeds, increase rate
The change will see the creation of APTN Languages, a channel dedicated to Indigenous-language programming.

Bell Media president Sean Cohan on his global growth plans
Cohan discusses his vision for Bell Media amid a turbulent time for the global media sector.

After disappointing Q4, Bell is cutting 4,800 jobs, selling off radio stations
The telecom and media company saw a more than 20% decrease in revenue.

Broadcasters reveal top-rated Canadian shows for 2023
CTV’s Sullivan’s Crossing emerged as the top-rated Canadian drama, while The Amazing Race Canada maintained its lead in unscripted.

Corus’ TV ad revenue fell 17% in first quarter
The media company’s subscriber revenue also decreased by 7%, mostly from linear broadcast.

Negotiations stall between writers, producers in Canada
Talks to renew the Independent Production Agreement between the two parties are at a standstill, according to a CMPA memo.

Apple Canada weighs in at CRTC hearings
The Path Forward: Apple and the Rogers Group of Funds presented their takes on the need for, and distribution of, contributions, while ACTRA sounded off on discoverability.

CBC/Radio-Canada to cut 600 jobs, reduce content spend
The cuts include a $40 million reduction in commissions and acquisitions, which the pubcaster said will reduce the number of new series and renewals in 2024-25.