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

Deals: CBC, Starline, Sinking Ship, Looking Glass

CBC faces the music, GTA-based equipment supplier launches new division after latest acquisition, Sinking Ship lands global licensing deals for a fan-favourite series, plus more.

Rogers’ takeover of Shaw should not move forward, says parliament report

A 41-page report from the standing committee on industry and technology said the merger will have a negative impact on affordability for consumers and called for a review of the Competition Act.

Canadian exporters, TIFF take stand against Russian invasion of Ukraine

The Canadian Association of Exporters has issued a joint statement amid the attack on the region, while TIFF says it will “suspend participation” of Russian film delegations.

Sheri Elwood inks first-look deal with Blink49 Studios

The Moonshine and Call Me Fitz creator and showrunner will develop original scripted TV content under the multi-year agreement.

Knowledge Network adds Gordon Loverin to its programming team

Loverin, who comes from the Tlingit and Tahltan Nations, will take on the role of producer, originals documentaries starting April 1.

Alberta to invest $225M in film, TV tax credit over next three years

The annual budget will increase to $80 million by 2024/25, revealed as part of the province’s recent budget update.

Canadian Film Fest to open with world premiere of Tehranto

Super Channel has partnered with the Canadian Film Fest for the third year to present its 10-feature lineup as part of its linear broadcast schedule, along with other virtual offerings.

Canadian distributors suspend business with Russia

Companies such as Blue Ant Media and Gusto Worldwide Media are cutting business ties due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Corus to launch Magnolia Network Canada

First launched in the U.S. as a joint venture between Chip and Joanna Gaines and Discovery, Magnolia will serve as a rebrand for Corus’ existing lifestyle channel DIY Network Canada.

CineFAM opens networking database for women of colour creators

The Women of Colour Content Creator Database was launched by CaribbeanTales Media Group’s Frances-Anne Solomon to offer more visibility and resources for women of colour in the screen industry.

CBC renews its freshman comedy slate

Run the Burbs, Son of a Critch and Strays have all been renewed for sophomore seasons.

Telefilm, Rolling Green partner on film carbon footprint study

The case study will track a major Quebec feature film through its production process to collect data on priorities for sustainable practices in the audiovisual industry.