Shamier Anderson & Stephan James Announce ‘The Legacy Lounge,’ New Conversation Series Celebrating The Legacy & Achievements Of Black Canadians
Shamier Anderson and Stephan James, co-founders of The Black Academy and Bay Mills Studios, announce the launch of The Legacy Lounge, a dynamic In Conversation honouring the legacy and achievements of Black Canadians. The series features in-depth conversations witha 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.
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.
“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.”
“We’re excited about the evolution of the Legacy Awards to this new format,” said Sally Catto, General Manager, Entertainment, Factual & Sports, CBC.“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.
The show will premiere as a four-part special during Black History Month in February on CBC Gem and also on CBC TV, with timing to be announced.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.
The Legacy Lounge is co-created and executive produced by Shamier Anderson (John Wick) and Golden Globe nominee, Stephan James (If Beale Street Could Talk). 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 on behalf of Bay Mills Studios, The Black Academy, and Project10.
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.