Session

Sunday, June 14
1:30pm - 2:15pm
Van Horne

Main Character Energy: Canadian Actors MADE for the Global Stage

Sunday, June 14
1:30pm - 2:15pm
Van Horne

Main Character Energy: Canadian Actors MADE for the Global Stage

Is it us, or is Canada really having a moment? Canadian actors are in the international spotlight perhaps like never before - from buzzy indies and prestige TV to massive global franchises and breakout streaming hits. Why now, and what’s it going to take to sustain and grow our star system at home - and around the world?

To kick off BANFF 2026, George Stroumboulopoulos hosts a candid conversation with some of Canada’s hottest actors about the pressure, the hustle, the absurdity and the opportunity in building a career. What’s changing in the industry - and what still desperately needs to as Canadian entertainment takes its rightful place on the world’s stage?

Why are Canadian actors suddenly everywhere?

What does the industry still get wrong?

And why does Canada feel culturally louder right now than it has in decades?

This isn’t a victory lap. It’s a conversation about ambition, resilience, identity, and what happens next when a country known for playing it safe stops asking for permission.