JUNOs Tap Mae Martin to Host; Daniel Caesar & Billy Talent Honoured

HAMILTON, ON – January 15, 2026 – The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) and CBC have unveiled a star-studded initial lineup for the 55th Annual JUNO Awards, tapping acclaimed comedian Mae Martin to host Canada's Biggest Night in Music. The ceremony, broadcasting live from the newly renovated TD Coliseum in Hamilton on March 29, will feature a special performance from multi-platinum global star Daniel Caesar, who will also be decorated with the prestigious International Achievement Award. Celebrated songwriter William Prince is also set to grace the stage.

The announcements signal a dynamic and multifaceted celebration, honouring contemporary global success, deep-rooted industry legacies, and significant philanthropic contributions. Rock icons Billy Talent are slated to receive the Humanitarian Award, while industry veterans the late Alexander Mair, Sandy Pandya, and Vinny Cinquemani will be recognized with the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award.

A Fresh, Witty Voice for the JUNOs Stage

The selection of Mae Martin as host marks a deliberate move to infuse the ceremony with a sharp, contemporary, and introspective comedic voice. Martin, a multi-talented comedian, actor, writer, and now recording artist, has had a meteoric rise, earning critical acclaim for work that deftly blends humour with vulnerability. Their semi-autobiographical Netflix series Feel Good garnered a BAFTA nomination, and their 2023 Netflix stand-up special SAP earned a JUNO nomination for Comedy Album of the Year, solidifying their place in the top tier of Canadian comedy.

Martin's recent creative output has been prolific and diverse. Following their win on the popular UK comedy show Taskmaster, they released a debut indie rock album, I'm a TV, in early 2025 and also co-created and starred in the Netflix thriller series Wayward. This breadth of experience across comedy, drama, and music makes them a uniquely qualified host for an awards show celebrating artistic diversity.

In a statement, Martin expressed their excitement and humility. "I'm unbelievably honoured to be hosting The JUNOS this year. Canada's biggest night in music! No pressure, just decades of iconic artists," Martin said. "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."

Celebrating Global Reach and Powerful Performances

This year's ceremony places a significant spotlight on Canadian artists who have made a major impact on the world stage. Daniel Caesar's reception of the International Achievement Award places him in an elite group of Canadian global ambassadors that includes Drake, Shawn Mendes, and Céline Dion. The honour recognizes the immense success of his 2023 album, Never Enough, which became the biggest sales debut for a male R&B artist that year and saw multiple tracks chart on Billboard's Hot R&B Songs.

Caesar, already a two-time JUNO winner, will underscore his global status with a special performance on the broadcast. His 2017 debut Freudian achieved platinum status in the US, and his continued success with Never Enough, particularly the hit single "Always," demonstrates his sustained influence and resonance with audiences worldwide. His return to the JUNOs stage is a celebration of a hometown hero who has become a dominant force in modern R&B.

Joining him on the performance bill is William Prince, a songwriter revered for his powerful storytelling and unmistakable baritone voice. Prince's inclusion promises a moment of profound musicality, representing the depth and soul of Canada's folk and country traditions on the nation's most prominent music platform.

Honouring Philanthropy and Industry Cornerstones

Beyond the broadcast, the JUNO Awards Gala on March 28 will recognize the figures who shape the industry's character and conscience. Canadian rock mainstays Billy Talent will be presented with the Humanitarian Award, a recognition of their nearly three-decade commitment to social causes. The band's efforts are extensive, most notably through the Billy Talent Charity Trust (BTCT). A central focus has been the fight against Multiple Sclerosis, a cause personal to the band as drummer Aaron Solowoniuk was diagnosed with MS in 1998. Their "F.U. MS" benefit concerts have raised significant funds and awareness for the MS Society of Canada.

Their philanthropy extends to partnerships with CARAS's own music education charity, MusiCounts, as well as War Child, Kids Help Phone, and numerous local food banks across Canada during their tours. This award highlights the band's enduring belief in using their platform for community impact.

Simultaneously, the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award will be presented to three influential industry figures: the late Alexander Mair, Sandy Pandya, and Vinny Cinquemani. This award honours individuals whose careers have had a significant and lasting impact on the growth and development of the Canadian music industry. Their collective contributions, often behind the scenes, have helped build the infrastructure and create the opportunities that have allowed generations of Canadian artists to thrive.

Hamilton's Encore Performance

The 55th Annual JUNO Awards marks the seventh time the city of Hamilton has played host, solidifying its reputation as a key Canadian music hub. The city, which has declared 2026 as "The Year of Music in Hamilton," is poised to welcome the festivities with open arms and a newly upgraded venue. The TD Coliseum, formerly known as FirstOntario Centre, has undergone significant renovations, promising a state-of-the-art experience for artists and attendees.

The economic benefit for the city is expected to be substantial. When Hamilton last hosted in 2015, the event generated an estimated $11 million in local economic activity. With the event's growth, city officials anticipate surpassing the $12 million impact seen in other recent host cities. This influx supports local hotels, restaurants, and a music business cluster that is already the sixth-largest in Canada.

The celebration extends far beyond the Sunday night broadcast. The week-long JUNO festivities will transform Hamilton into a city-wide festival, anchored by JUNOfest Presented by CBC. This two-night music festival will feature a diverse lineup of Canadian talent and JUNO nominees across multiple iconic Hamilton venues, including The Music Hall. The week will also feature events like the JUNO Comedy Showcase, the Songwriters' Circle, and Junior JUNOS, ensuring the celebration of Canadian music is accessible to the entire community.