Kelly Townsend

Kelly Townsend is the editor at Playback, with previous experience in B2B and entertainment journalism. Before joining the Playback team in 2018, she worked in the editorial, marketing and communication departments at B2B publisher Dovetail Communications. She has a bachelor's degree in English from York University and is a graduate of Humber College’s journalism program. Her byline has appeared in IndieWire and she spent several years covering Canadian TV as associate editor of The TV Junkies.

Posts by Kelly Townsend

CRTC hears case for more children’s content discoverability

The continued proceedings on broadcasting market dynamics examined regulation of kids programming and the elimination of the Wholesale Code.

Bell defends commercial interests of BDUs at CRTC hearing

The proceeding around market dynamics in the broadcasting system kicked off with talks on conflict resolution and barriers for indie players.

Telefilm allocates $14.4M to 27 English market films

The features were selected through Telefilm’s low-budget stream for productions with a budget of less than $3.5 million.

The News Forum slates one-hour Dini Petty talk show special

Trailblazing Talks features Petty interviewing women who’ve made a mark on Canadian history, including Reelworld’s Tonya Williams.

Deals: Blue Ant Studios, Boat Rocker, Silverlining Rights

Blue Ant Studios’ Mysteries from Above flies to the U.S., Boat Rocker plays its Mix Tape for European buyers, plus more.

CRTC updates local news fund amid streamer appeal

The Commission added changes to the Independent Local News Fund on June 9, the same day foreign streamers argued against supporting it at the Federal Court of Appeal.

Indie List 2025: Producers mixed on opportunities for screen sector

Canadian producers weigh in on the good, the bad and the AI of it all in the fast-evolving film and TV industry.

Upfronts ’25: Bell Media expands Crave amid subscriber growth

Bell Media is evolving its strategy behind the streamer, from new commissions to expanding its content portfolio.

Netflix sets creative partnership with Patrick O’Sullivan

The streamer is developing multiple comedies with O’Sullivan, who executive-produced Letterkenny and Bad Blood.

‘Crisis’ in children’s content takes spotlight at CRTC hearing

Day two of the proceedings also examined Indigenous broadcasters, accessibility and the use of AI for Canadian content.

Flexibility, incentives talk kicks off CRTC’s Cancon definition hearing

The first day of the proceedings saw proposals on IP ownership models, a Canadian star system and incentives for private equity.

Corus seeks younger-skewing content for Home, Flavour

Strategy Spotlight: Rachel Nelson and Jennifer Abrams discuss the commissioning and acquisitions strategy for the Corus lifestyle channels.