Simu Liu, known for his role as a Marvel superhero. Interestingly, is returning to host the Junos Awards for the second year in a row. As the host, Liu will oversee the celebration of Canadian music. That is, during which five key Juno awards will be presented. Including, album of the year & breakthrough artist. Finally, the fan choice award, which is determined by viewer votes.
On Monday, the Junos Awards had an eventful evening with several surprises. Including, a topless protester rushing the stage during Avril Lavigne’s performance in Junos awards. The protester wore pasties with the words “land back” and “save the green belt,”. Thus, referring to a decision to open a protected area of land in Ontario for housing. Lavigne was visibly surprised and swore at the protester, demanding that she leave the stage. Security quickly escorted the protester away. Lavigne later returned to accept the fan choice award. Furthermore, warned against any further disruptions.
THE HIGH ENERGY AWARDS- ‘JUNO AWARDS’:
The Juno Awards continued with high energy and saw The Weekend’s album “Dawn FM” awarded album of the year. Adding to his four wins from a Saturday industry event. Including, the artist and single of the year for “Sacrifice.” However, when Tyler Shaw announced that The Weekend. Whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, was not present to accept his award. Sadly, the audience expressed disappointment and booed. Overall, it was an unpredictable and eventful Juno Awards ceremony.
Despite not being present at the Juno Awards ceremony. The Weeknd sent a written statement expressing his gratitude for the recognition. A recognition which was provided to The Canadian Press by Junos organisers. Other winners included Jessie Reyez, who tearfully accepted contemporary R&B recording of the year, and Tobi, who won rap album/EP of the year. Preston Pablo won breakthrough artist of the year with. Precisely, with “Flowers Need Rain.” Nickelback was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. In addition to this, the band performed a medley of their biggest hits to close out the broadcast. The organisers acknowledged that they try to avoid interruptions. However, live broadcasts always come with risks.
The Juno Awards organisers released a statement following the topless protest. Hence, expressing their hope that it wouldn’t detract from the achievements of the performers. Also, the winners & the nominees. However, artists continued to talk about the incident, with Avril Lavigne calling it one of the highlights of the night. The show’s host, Russell Peters, also made a joke about the incident. Hence, saying he would have been surprised if someone had told him beforehand. Obviously, that someone would take their shirt off at the Junos and it wouldn’t be him.