Following its inaugural iteration in 2022, the Legacy Awards — the country's first-ever awards show honouring Black Canadians in film, television, music, sports and culture — is set to return on September 24 with singer-songwriter and TV personality Keshia Chanté as host.
Co-created by Toronto-born brothers and actors Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, the event will once again take place at the fitting venue of History. Anderson and James, who hosted last year's ceremony themselves, founded organizing body the Black Academy back in 2020.
"Keshia was always our number one choice to host this year's Legacy Awards," said Anderson said in a press release. "She's got an undeniable It factor, she's extremely talented and funny, and she can hold the room. And most importantly, Keshia embodies what the Legacy Awards and the Black Academy are all about: she's someone all people of colour can be proud of; she's been a trailblazer for our community and inspired my brother and me to reach for more. So the chance to collaborate with her on this celebration of Black Canadian talent is a real full circle moment for us."
Chanté added, "The Legacy Awards are the epitome of excellence representing the culture at the highest level. I'm incredibly honoured to be hosting this year's celebration. Shamier and Stephan have been an inspiration to me and so many for their unrelenting work ethic and drive to break down barriers for not only themselves, but for others."
In addition to award presentations, the show will feature performances and tributes to both emerging and established Black Canadian talent. Stay tuned for honourees, performers and presenters to be announced in the coming weeks.
Co-created by Toronto-born brothers and actors Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, the event will once again take place at the fitting venue of History. Anderson and James, who hosted last year's ceremony themselves, founded organizing body the Black Academy back in 2020.
"Keshia was always our number one choice to host this year's Legacy Awards," said Anderson said in a press release. "She's got an undeniable It factor, she's extremely talented and funny, and she can hold the room. And most importantly, Keshia embodies what the Legacy Awards and the Black Academy are all about: she's someone all people of colour can be proud of; she's been a trailblazer for our community and inspired my brother and me to reach for more. So the chance to collaborate with her on this celebration of Black Canadian talent is a real full circle moment for us."
Chanté added, "The Legacy Awards are the epitome of excellence representing the culture at the highest level. I'm incredibly honoured to be hosting this year's celebration. Shamier and Stephan have been an inspiration to me and so many for their unrelenting work ethic and drive to break down barriers for not only themselves, but for others."
In addition to award presentations, the show will feature performances and tributes to both emerging and established Black Canadian talent. Stay tuned for honourees, performers and presenters to be announced in the coming weeks.
