Billy Talent named Humanitarian Award recipients and Alexander Mair, Sandy Pandya and Vinny Cinquemani set to receive Walt Grealis Special Achievement Awards Presented by Slaight Music
First round of JUNOfest Presented by CBC performers announced
TORONTO, Jan. 15, 2026 /CNW/ - The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) and CBC today announced this year's host and additional special award recipients taking part in the 55th Annual JUNO Awards, live from TD Coliseum in Hamilton, Ontario and broadcasting/streaming nationwide on CBC and CBC Gem.
Acclaimed comedian, actor, singer-songwriter, podcast host, and writer Mae Martin will host Canada's Biggest Night in Music. Mae brings their signature wit and celebrated voice to the JUNOS stage following a standout period across comedy, music, television and cultural commentary. Known for blending humour with insight, Mae adds a fresh and distinctive perspective to the 2026 Broadcast.
Martin says, "I'm unbelievably honoured to be hosting The JUNOS this year. Canada's biggest night in music! No pressure, just decades of iconic artists. The JUNOS have always been about celebrating artists who are bold, genre-defying, and unafraid to be a little weird, so I'll try to embody those qualities as your host! Getting to celebrate Canadian artists on this scale feels so thrilling and a little surreal. Thanks to The JUNOS for trusting me with this!"
Multi-platinum global star Daniel Caesar will be honoured with the International Achievement Award and will also take the JUNOS stage for a special performance.
William Prince will also take The JUNO Awards stage , bringing his powerful songwriting and unmistakable voice to the 55th Annual JUNO Awards.
Celebrating outstanding contributions both on and off the stage at the JUNO Awards Gala Presented by Music Canada on Saturday, March 28, Billy Talent will be recognized with the Humanitarian Award, honouring the band's long standing commitment to philanthropy and community impact. Industry leaders, the late Alexander Mair, Sandy Pandya and Vinny Cinquemani will each receive the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award Presented by Slaight Music, recognizing their significant and lasting influence on the Canadian music industry.
In addition to the Broadcast announcements, the first round of performers has been revealed for JUNOfest Presented by CBC, full list of performers can be found at: junoawards.ca/news-press/media-releases
For more information, visit junoawards.ca, and for tickets to Canada's Biggest Night in Music visit ticketmaster.ca/junos.
About CARAS
The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) is a not-for-profit organization created to preserve and enhance the Canadian music industry and promote higher artistic and industry standards. CARAS' mandate is comprised of four key pillars: Educate through our music education charity, MusiCounts, programs and initiatives; Develop emerging artists through mentorship and development programs; Celebrate Canadian artists with year-round JUNO Awards showcasing; and Honour music industry icons through the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. The 55th annual JUNO Awards Broadcast will take place in Hamilton at TD Coliseum on Sunday, March 29, 2026. For more information on the JUNO Awards or The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS), please visit www.junoawards.ca.
SOURCE CARAS
Media Contacts: Amandine Lucas, [email protected]
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