Legendary Canadian actor/writer/director Gordon Pinsent will receive the Banff Television Festival’s Award of Excellence on June 13, as part of the fest’s 25th anniversary celebrations. The award recognizes ‘exceptional achievement through a body of work over an extended period of time’.

In his 40-year career, the Newfoundland-born Pinsent has received numerous accolades. His movie prizes include a Canadian Film Award for his lead performance in The Rowdyman (1972), based on his own novel, as well as Genies for supporting actor in Jack London’s Klondike Fever (1980), and for lead in John and the Missus (1987), also based on his novel.

On the small screen, the multi-talent has won six Geminis: for guest performances on Street Legal (1989) and Due South (1996); supporting role in Power Play and writing for the MOW Win, Again!, both in 1999; ACTRA’s John Drainie Award (1992) for contribution to Canadian broadcasting; and the Earle Grey Award (1997) for body of work or contribution to the international profile of Canadian TV. Pinsent was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1979 and promoted to Companion within the Order in 1998.

His recent acting credits include The Red Green Show and the feature Saint Ralph.