Shamier Anderson and Stephan James Launch THE LEGACY LOUNGE

Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, co-founders of The Black Academy and Bay Mills Studios, have launched The Legacy Lounge.

The Legacy Lounge is a dynamic In Conversation honouring the legacy and achievements of Black Canadians. The series features in-depth conversations with a new group of Black Academy honourees. Highlighting their contributions to society and the legacies they are creating. The Legacy Lounge is a reimagined format of The Legacy Awards and is part of an ongoing partnership with CBC.

Heartfelt Conversations

The Legacy Lounge will deliver four 30-minute episodes, each designed to inspire, entertain, and encourage thoughtful reflection. Styled in an intimate lounge, Shamier and Stephan will dive deep into heartfelt conversations that explore each honouree’s journey, their impact on society, and the legacies they are building. With a perfect blend of inspiration, laughter, and deep reflection; it’s where culture meets conversation.  

“This is not just a talk show; it is an immersive experience where laughter, insights, and music create memorable moments. Our goal is to provide a platform for powerful black narratives in an intimate atmosphere that allows audiences to look behind the curtain into the trials and tribulations that made our honourees legends. Each guest brings a unique story that deserves recognition and celebration,” said Shamier Anderson, Executive Producer and series co-creator.

The Importance of Storytelling

“Shamier and I believe in the importance of representation and storytelling,” said Stephan James, Executive Producer and series co-creator. “Through The Legacy Lounge, we aim to connect our audience with the incredible individuals who inspire change and progress in our communities. We want viewers at home to feel the warmth and authenticity of these conversations.”

Sally Catto, General Manager, Entertainment, Factual & Sports, CBC had this to say:

“We’re excited about the evolution of the Legacy Awards to this new format. The Legacy Lounge will provide an in-depth and intimate tribute to honourees and we’re looking forward to sharing these stories with audiences across the country.”

The series offers a blend of inspiration, laughter, and meaningful dialogue, celebrating Black excellence in Canada. A diverse lineup of honourees, including celebrities and thought leaders, will share their stories and highlight their impact across various fields.

Black History Month

The show will premiere as a four-part special during Black History Month in February on CBC Gem and also on CBC TV. Times will be announced later. Make sure not to miss it, as The Legacy Lounge brings the celebration straight to audiences across Canada. Additional details about this year’s honourees will be announced soon. 

Shamier Anderson and Stephan James are the co-creators and executive producers of The Legacy Lounge. Emmy Award-winning producers, Jesse Murphy (Laugh It Forward) and Andrew Barnsley (Schitt’s Creek) will Executive Produce. Tse Daniel and Shelby Bronstine will oversee production as series producers.

For CBC, Sally Catto is General Manager, Entertainment, Factual & Sports; Jennifer Dettman is Executive Director, Unscripted Content; and Nic Meloney is Executive in Charge of Production, Unscripted Content. 

About The Black Academy

The Black Academy is a national, year-round Canadian organization that operates at the intersection of Black popular culture and social justice. Shamier Anderson and Stephan James founded the organisation in 2020. The Black Academy is dedicated to showcasing Black excellence and dismantling systemic racism in Canada.

SOURCE: cbc.ca