TORONTO – The world’s most famous dog, Lassie, was honoured with TV Land Canada’s inaugural Icon Award today in a ceremony at the CHUM Television Building. 
“Lassie is one of Hollywood’s greatest stars,” said Paul Gratton, vice-president of specialty entertainment (pictured), who presented the award to Lassie (well, a recent reasonable facsimile) “Generations of children have grown up watching Lassie and wanting a Lassie of their very own, including me. Lassie is a revered television star who has touched the hearts of millions of fans from around the world, so it is fitting that TV Land Canada present Lassie with its very first Icon Award."
Over the course of 691 television episodes, Lassie grew from a movie star to a cultural icon. Enjoying one of the longest runs in television history, the Lassie series, which originally debuted in 1954, will be returning to the airwaves on TV Land Canada in September.
Lassie is one of the busiest dogs in Hollywood. In addition to her many live appearances for her fans, the collie is also currently starring in a new self-titled movie that has its North American premiere as the opening-night movie at the Sprockets Toronto International Film Festival for Children on April 21.
TV Land Canada’s new Icon Award was created to celebrate and honour stars that have made their mark in television history.
