ichannel, Canada’s political and social issues network, begins a new season on Sept. 27 with a renewed commitment to telling stories that matter, engaging viewers in discussion of today’s most urgent questions, and inspiring Canadians to make real change in the world.
Head of Programming Rosemary Fusca says the digital specialty network’s daily schedule is anchored by five major themes: world affairs, human rights, the environment, health and well-being, and relationships.
“These are the real issues that Canadians deal with in their lives every day,” she says. “Our goal is to offer viewers involving, thoughtful programming that they won’t find anywhere else, help them to realize that they really can make a difference – whether in their community, their country, or the global arena – and, most important, show them how.”
ichannel’s nightly flagship series @issue, which presents in-depth discussions of current events and issues, returns in the fall. The 2010-2011 edition will be hosted by journalists Kevin O’Keefe, who takes on human awareness and social justice topics, Candice Batista, who covers eco-trends and the environment, and Karyn Pugliese, who provides analysis of political and public policy issues that affect the lives of Canadians.
New this season, the @issue team presents 15 episodes of @issue 4 teens, a series that explores young people’s perspectives on national and international issues. Hosted by Kevin O’Keefe, the hour-long show profiles teenage activists, entrepreneurs and philanthropists, and tackles subjects ranging from bullying to climate change and terrorism.
Teenzilla, an original ichannel production premiering this season, will also put the focus on youth. Helen Jones, founder of The Association of Parent Support Groups in Ontario, offers advice and guidance to parents who are struggling to deal with out-of-control teen behaviour, from drug addiction to gang violence.
Other original ichannel series include Celebrity Soapbox, in which stars such as Wyclef Jean, Ted Danson and Chantal Kreviazuk open up about their passion for charitable causes.
Compelling, critically acclaimed documentaries remain a highlight of ichannel’s nightly prime time lineup. Titles airing in the network’s idocs slot in 2010-2011 include award-winning journalist Louis Theroux’s provocative A Place for Pedophiles, the eye-opening Darwin’s Garden, which takes a probing look at the birth of evolutionary theory, and the film festival favourite Who the &%$# is Jackson Pollock?
Returning series this season include St. Elsewhere, the ground-breaking medical drama that helped to launch the careers of stars Denzel Washington, Ed Begley Jr., Tim Robbins, Helen Hunt, Mark Harmon, David Morse and Howie Mandel. “With its risk-taking, relevant storylines, edgy humour and flawed, fascinating characters, St. Elsewhere exercised a powerful and lasting influence on contemporary TV drama,” Rosemary Fusca says.
