CBC AND SHOWRUNNER Leslie Norville (below) announced yesterday the public broadcaster has greenlit eight-part docuseries Black Life: A Canadian History.
Black Life “seeks to inform audiences of the vital role that Black Canadians have played in shaping our country while presenting an unvarnished examination of the picture mainstream culture has painted of Canada as a sanctuary,” a press release says.
“While tracing the complex and hopeful stories of Black Canada, the series reveals the truths of a history fraught with violence, racism, hardship, and perseverance. Black Life: A Canadian History illuminates the struggles and triumphs of Black Canadians, and celebrates the contributions of both famous and lesser-known individuals.”
The series, which features eight hour-long episodes, is produced by Norville’s Studio 112 in association with Northwood Entertainment and Ugly Duck Productions.
“In addition to Norville and Northwood Entertainment’s Miranda de Pencier, an exceptional cadre of creative talent, activists, and historical and cultural consultants helm this epic television event,” the press release says.
This includes philanthropist and NHL all-star P.K. Subban, who launched Ugly Duck Productions in 2019. Subban is signed on to be executive producer along with author, columnist, journalist, critic and filmmaker Nelson George and Norville. Co-founder of Black Lives Matter Canada, Sandy Hudson, is co-executive producer.
The show’s consulting producers include former Governor General Michaëlle Jean, rapper and broadcaster Shad and activist Ravyn Wngz.
A different Black Canadian director will direct each of the episodes, bringing “their unique approach and style to the series,” the press release says.
Consultants, academics and writers involved in the series include David Austin, Dr. Claudine Bonner, Dr. Afua Cooper, Annette Henry, Issac Saney, Dr. Rinaldo Walcott, Dr. Dorothy W. Williams, and top writer Jael Richardson.
“I can’t wait to share the educational and engrossing stories of Black Life: A Canadian History,” said Subban.
“We’re pushing the boundaries of conventional storytelling to create a series that is gripping and dramatic in a way that audiences haven’t seen before. The inclusion of everything from civil rights to sports, and justice to music, is sure to engage viewers across the country and around the globe.”
Black Life: A Canadian History will premiere on CBC and CBC Gem in 2023.
For more, please click here.
Photo of Leslie Norville taken by Oskar Landi and supplied by Studio 112 and Northwood Entertainment.
