CBC Greenlights Black Canadian History Docuseries

Black Life: A Canadian History, a new eight-part docuseries exploring the history of the Black experience in Canada, has been greenlit by CBC.

From Leslie Norville’s Studio 112 in association with Northwood Entertainment and Ugly Duck Productions, the series seeks to inform audiences of the role that Black Canadians have played in shaping the country while examining the picture that mainstream culture has painted of Canada as a sanctuary. It will premiere on CBC and CBC Gem in 2023.

Black Life: A Canadian History spans more than 400 years with an eye toward contemporary issues, culture, politics, music, art and sports. It reveals the truths of a history fraught with violence, racism, hardship and perseverance.

In addition to showrunner Norville and Northwood Entertainment’s Miranda de Pencier, a team of creative talent, activists and historical and cultural consultants helm the television event. Philanthropist and NHL All-Star P.K. Subban (Ugly Duck Productions) is on board to executive produce, as is Nelson George and co-executive producer and Black Lives Matter (Canada) co-founder Sandy Hudson.

Consulting producers include former Governor General the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, rapper and broadcaster Shad (Shadrach Kabango) and activist Ravyn Wngz. The producers will partner with eight Black Canadian directors, one for each episode.

Norville, also an executive producer, said: “The docuseries will be an honest and nuanced look at Black Canadian history—and while some may find this uncomfortable, it’s critical to understand and grapple with the complexities of Canada’s past. I couldn’t ask for a more talented team to help bring this rich history to audiences and to explore and celebrate the stories and people whose contributions have shaped the country we know today. Miranda and I are delighted that Black Life: A Canadian History has found a home at CBC and value their support and enthusiasm for the project.”

Hudson said: “One of the many things that attracts me to this project is that it connects events across 400 years of history to the present day. Reckoning with the past and confronting our present can be a foundation through which we imagine and build liberatory Black futures.”

Subban: “I can’t wait to share the educational and engrossing stories of Black Life: A Canadian History. 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.”

Sally Catto, general manager for entertainment, factual and sports at CBC, said: “CBC is honored to partner with this remarkable team to bring the untold history of Black Canadians to audiences across the country with authenticity and depth, led by the lived experiences, insight and perspectives of Black storytellers.”