The GLAAD Media Awards took place in San Francisco this past weekend, and a few of our Degrassians were in attendance. Degrassi cast members Annie Clark and Jordan Todosey were there, along with Degrassi co-creator and executive producer Linda Schuyler. All three of them looked stunning as they posed for photos on the red carpet. During the ceremony, Degrassi lost the Outstanding Drama Series award to Grey’s Anatomy. Nonetheless, it’s clear that the entire Degrassi community has a lot to be proud of.
Check out photos of Annie, Jordy, and Linda in our gallery!
Xtra has posted a new interview with Annie Clark and Jordan Todosey discussing the LGBT storylines on Degrassi and their characters.
In the interview, they talk about the fan reaction to both Adam and Fiona’s storyline. And when asked about the recent controversy involving Ontario Catholic Schools trying to ban GSA’s, Annie and Jordan can’t believe that in this day and age this would still be an issue (we agree!!).
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Written By BiancaComments Off on “Party With Degrassi” Screening and M&G – Montclair, NJ – 2/18/12
Hey all! Degrassi Dish aka Bianca here reporting exclusively for Degrassi Online on the FABULOUS “Party With Degrassi” event at Montclair, New Jersey. Being a person who is NO stranger to TeenNick (or The-N for you old-schoolers), I knew right off the bat that an event like this was going to blow my expectations out of the water and it truly did just that.
I was lucky enough to snag a few VIP passes through my job who deals directly with Nickelodeon and TeenNick. This meant no crowds, no lines, and an exclusive meet and greet with the cast before the screen and Q&A. When we arrived we were directed to our parking spot right outside of the theater. We came close to hitting a few fangirls (SORRY!) as the line was right along the sidewalk where we parked. Inside the theater was DECKED out to the NINES. They had various booths where you could create your own Degrassi-ified t-shirts, spin a wheel to win prizes, and a digital green screen to take pictures. They had free popcorn, pretzels, candy and even “mocktails” named after your favorite Degrassi character – I tried the “Eclare on the Rocks”myself.
After taking the entire theater in and it was time to wait on line to meet the cast. We were second in line behind another VIP via Nickelodeon and in front of the Radio Winners who were needless to say enthusiastic! That’s where I met Shanene who is Mindy’s new best friend. 🙂 We were taken backstage and THERE they WERE, sitting in a row ready to do some meeting and greeting. After I had a mini-heart attack it was my turn to meet them and let me tell you they were some of the SWEETEST most down to EARTH people you have ever met. Usually I’m a complete wreck when meeting celebrities, and yes I’ll admit I was nervous, but when you’re greeted with such kindness that type of nervousness just goes away and normal conversation goes on. Luckily since I was one of the first to meet them I had a bit of extra time to chat. Told them how much I love the show and how much their work is so appreciated. The best part was that I had time to explain to them who I was and the twitter I run as well as Erin’s new site re-launch of Degrassi-Online.com. What blew my mind was that they knew who I was and what Degrassi Talks was.
After meeting them we were taken to our seats where we waited for the show to start. Before the screening they brought out the cast for a little intro and then the show began. Opinions about the show.. let’s just say we’ll save that for a Degrassi Talks. After they brought back the cast out for Q&A. I will leave the video to explain how THAT went down. Just a few highlights: Blart, Lord of the Rings, Jahmil dancing, Munro “take off your pants”, and Mindy’s 20th birthday cake!
It was a great day and very reminiscent of the Ultimate Degrassi Party back in 2006 (holy moley 2006?!??!). We were just glad we could have been apart of it and very thankful for TeenNick for hosting such a well organized and free event for the fans. Goes to show how passionate the US fans are and that we are out there in VERY large numbers. I can’t WAIT to do it again.
Check out my 2 part video of the entire Q&A portion as well as all the pictures I took in the gallery!
Cast members Alicia Josipovic, Daniel Kelly, Jordy Todosey, Munro Chambers, Samantha Munro tease the finale with Hollywood Life in a short clip taken from a longer video that will be available after the finale broadcast.
Just how intense is tonight’s mid-season finale of Degrassi? “It’s about as ‘Oh my God’ as it gets,” Daniel Kelly told HollywoodLife.com during a recent visit to the show’s Toronto set.
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Written By ErinComments Off on Degrassi Scores 6 Gemini Award Nominations
Yes, it’s that time of the year again! Gemini Award nominations were released today, and Degrassi received a total of 6 nominations!! Unsurprisingly, season 10’s “My Body Is a Cage” episode got a lot of love and was recognized in several categories. Former and current Degrassi cast members were also nominated for other television shows they have been a part of as well. This year the Gemini Awards will air September 7th at 8pm on CBC. However, the majority of Degrassi’s awards will be handed out at the Industry Galas on August 30th and 31st. Here is a complete list of Degrassi’s nominations:
Best Children’s or Youth Fiction Program or Series Degrassi – Epitome Pictures
Best Direction in a Children’s or Youth Program or Series My Body is a Cage Part 2 – Phil Earnshaw All Falls Down Part 2 – Pat Williams
Best Sound in a Dramatic Program Degrassi Takes Manhattan – Robert Fletcher, Mike Baskerville, John Dykstra, Danielle McBride, Dan Sexton, Virginia Storey
Best Writing in a Children’s or Youth Program or Series My Body is a Cage Part 2 – Michael Grassi
Best Performance in a Children’s or Youth Program or Series My Body is a Cage Part 2 – Jordan Todosey
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Written By ErinComments Off on Degrassi Accepts Peabody Award
Congratulations ad from TeenNick and Degrassi’s Peabody Award
The Peabody Awards were handed out today in New York, and several Degrassi representatives were at the event. You might remember that earlier this year it was announced that Degrassi would receive a Peabody Award for its groundbreaking transgender storyline. Today they were presented with this award. Executive producers Stephen Stohn and Linda Schuyler were there along with Jordan Todosey. Stephen has been tweeting pictures from the event, which you can view at his Twitter. Hopefully we will get to see some videos from the event soon!
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Written By ErinComments Off on AfterEllen Interviews Annie Clark and Jordan Todosey
AfterEllen recently got to interview both Annie Clark and Jordan Todosey! In each interview, AE asks the girls about the kind of feedback they have received from fans, where they want to see their characters in the future, what it’s like to play such unique characters, and more. Here is some of what Annie and Jordy had to say:
Annie on who Fiona should end up with
I think a new love interest entirely would be better for Fiona. As much as I love the relationship between her and Holly J., I like them better as friends. I feel the same way about Fiona and Adam — they make great friends.
Jordy on what she loves most about Adam
It’s interesting getting to know a character. As the writers develop the plotlines, I get a sense of what I think would be going on inside Adam’s head. It’s as though Adam takes on a life of his own, and he’s a pretty cool kid! He’s incredibly brave and stands up for what he believes in, regardless of what he has to face in doing so. I absolutely love how at times he is clear and focused on what he wants but then suddenly his imperfections and awkwardness shows another side — just like a lot of guys I know.
Make sure you check out AE.com for the complete Annie interview and Jordy interview. Definitely must-reads for any Fiona and Adam fan! Also, AE posted an amazing review of Chasing Pavements Part 2 which is really interesting. Check that out right here!
The 70th Annual Peabody Awards were announced today by the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication. And I am proud to say that Degrassi has won for My Body is a Cage (Adam’s episode last summer)! The winners were chosen as the best in electronic media for the year 2010. Other entertainment programs honoured include The Good Wife and Temple Grandin, among others. This is what they had to say about Degrassi:
Degrassi (TeenNick): True to its history, the durable high-school serial’s two-parter about a transgender teen neither trivializes nor overdramatizes its subject.
This is such a special honour for Degrassi. It’s great to see the show get the recognition is deserves, and to be honoured alongside so many other forms of media. Check out the press release for the awards, or more information from the Canadian Press.
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Written By ErinComments Off on New Video from Jessica Tyler
Jessica Tyler posted a new video this afternoon. This is from a Me To We speaking event Jessica was at with Luke and Jordan not long ago. They were at an elementary school to talk about their trip to India, and they screened the Degrassi In India documentary. This videos shows the 3 of them just being goofy and meeting with the kids at the school.
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Written By ErinComments Off on Degrassi Friday: Lots of Interviews!!
Alright kids — today is it!! New episodes of Degrassi premiere tonight at 9pm ET on Much Music & TeenNick!!
It has been one busy day in Degrassi world, as you might expect. As I write this entry, Annie Clark and Luke Bilyk are being interviewed on Much Music’s New Music Live! I will try and get a video of that interview up ASAP. Just a little hint: they mentioned that there will be a season 11 read-through this Monday!! Very exciting. Luke Bilyk and Samantha Munro will also be doing live hits while the episodes air on Much, so I’ll try and get those for you guys too.
A bunch of print interviews with the cast were also released today. First we have a new interview with Annie Clark from DJ General via Degrassi Blog! In that interview, Annie talks about how she got into acting, what she loves about her job, and plenty more. Check it out right here!
A couple of interviews with Jordan Todosey were also released today. The first comes from Ology.com, and talks mostly about Adam’s storyline and Degrassi’s GLAAD nomination. You can read that interview over here. The second Jordan interview is from TV Squad, and Jordan discusses how she transforms into Adam on set as well as the positive reaction to the storyline. Read it over here!
Lastly, The TV Addict interviewed Munro Chambers, and they asked him a lot of in depth questions. Everything from his friendship with Aislinn to what’s ahead for Eli this season. I’m sure allll you Munro fans will love to read it. Click here for lots of Munro cuteness.
Enjoy the episode tonight everyone! Lots more updates will be coming soon!!
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Written By ErinComments Off on The Star Scoop Interviews Jordan Todosey
We are almost 1 week away from new Degrassi episodes, and the promotion train has already begun! Today, The Star Scoop posted their new interview with Jordan Todosey. Also, I’ve got an exclusive interview with Annie Clark coming soon! That will likely be posted this Saturday, so keep checking back!! In the meantime, here are some great quotes from Jordan’s latest interview:
THE STAR SCOOP:
Why do you think Adam has become such a popular character?
JORDAN TODOSEY:
I believe that most people have, at one time or another, experienced the feeling of being the odd one out. Adam is a relatable character with a strong spirit that lives in a society of peer pressures and conformities. I’ve got to admit as well that he’s a pretty cool guy!
THE STAR SCOOP:
Please give us your thoughts on “Fadam” (Fiona/Adam). We’re not the only ones who like this pairing…
JORDAN TODOSEY:
They both have experienced societal pressure, whether it is from their family or their friends. I think they find some kind of comfort and understanding in each other. They also look pretty cute together – don’t they?
Click here to read the full interview with Jordan!!
Big congratulations goes out to the cast & crew of Degrassi this morning, as it was just announced that the show has been nominated for a GLAAD Media Award!!
Degrassi is nominated in the Outstanding Dramatic Series category. The show is up against Brothers & Sisters, Grey’s Anatomy, Pretty Little Liars, and True Blood.
You might remember that Degrassi has been nominated in this category before. In 2004, Degrassi was nominated for Marco’s coming out storyline. 4 years later, in 2008, they received a nomination for the Paige/Alex storyline. This year, Degrassi is receiving recognition for the groundbreaking Adam storyline, as well as the ongoing Riley/Zane saga.
The GLAAD Media Awards are an annual awards show organized by GLAAD to promote fair, accurate, and inclusive representations of the LGBT community in the media to build support for equality. Click here for the full list of nominations!
UPDATE: Stefan did a little interview talking about the nomination. Here’s some of what he had to say – For the people in this building, it’s almost like getting nominated for an Emmy or an Oscar … It’s big news around here. We do pride ourselves on trying to tell really truthful stories.
I think there’s no doubt that more and more shows are introducing gay characters and I don’t think for any other reason except that there’s a large part of the audience that wants to relate to something
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Written By ErinComments Off on Degrassi Cast Members Join Love Is Louder Campaign
Various CTV celebrities (including the cast of Degrassi) have joined the Love Is Louder campaign to build an online support network for victims of bullying. According to CTV’s website, “this movement strives to amplify the momentum of other inspiring online campaigns and invite anyone who has felt mistreated, misunderstood or isolated into the conversation.” As part of the campaign, CTV and its affiliate networks have been airing widespread coverage during National Bullying Awareness Week. They have also created these PSAs featuring Degrassi’s Ray Ablack & Jordan Todosey. For more details on the campaign & how you can get involved, visit LoveIsLouder.com or CTV’s own Love Is Louder page.
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Written By ErinComments Off on Jordan Todosey Interviews Giller Nominee
From Etalk last night, Jordan Todosey interviews Giller Prize nominee Kathleen Winter in this new video. Winter is the author of Annabel, a novel that features a hermaphrodite as the main character.
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Written By ErinComments Off on Jordan Posts a New Video
Jordan has posted a new video of the cast on the set of Degrassi. I love it when she does this! Luke, Sam, Alicia, and Jessica are also included in the video.
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Written By ErinComments Off on New Video – Degrassi’s Transgender Storyline
If you weren’t already excited about this week’s Adam storyline, this should heighten the anticipation! Xtra just posted this great new video about Adam and the thought process behind his character. It includes an interview with Jordan Todosey as well as one of the Degrassi writers, and features a very intense new scene!
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Written By ErinComments Off on Degrassi’s Transgender Storyline
A press release about Degrassi’s upcoming transgender storyline has just been released! It features from great quotes from Jordan Todosey (who plays Adam) and Stefan Brogren, and also says that Adam’s storyline will come to a head on Aug. 11th and 12th. This storyline sounds amazing and I think we’re all really excited about it! Here’s what Jordan had to say:
Todosey says she expects the heavy topic to resonate with kids, even though it’s a rarely discussed issue that even adults have trouble understanding.
“It’s well-written. I feel like it really does speak to kids and I think it’s a great role to really open up, show people what transgenders are like,” she says, describing her character as someone who “was born physically as a girl but between the ears, he feels like he’s a guy.”
“It lets the audience walk a mile in the character’s shoes and that’s really good.”
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Written By ErinComments Off on Degrassi Nation Interviews Jordan Todosey
Score one for the Degrassi fansites!!
Degrassi Nation just posted their exclusive interview with Jordan Todosey, a new cast member on Degrassi. Jordan is best known for her role in Life with Derek (and the upcoming film Vacation With Derek), but in season 10 she will be playing the role of Adam on Degrassi. Although Adam is rumoured to be a transgender character, Jordan was unable to discuss that in her interview. However she did talk about her favourite bands (a very long list), life on the Degrassi set, and how she prepared for the role.
Click here to read the full interview! We can’t wait to see Jordan in season 10.
