Rapper and MC Shad will become the new host of CBC’s “Q,” replacing Jian Ghomeshi, who was charged with sexual assault at the end of the 2014.
Shad, who is a multiple Juno Award nominee as well as the winner of the 2011 Junos for Rap Recording of the Year, was born in Kenya but raised in London, Ontario. “Q,” under the helm of Shad, will see some changes, producers said, including more musical performances and less structure. Questions as to whether the name of the series will change are still unanswered.
“Joining the Q team is an honour,” Shad said late Tuesday (CBC News). “My mission in music has always been to make a unique and positive contribution to culture and to people’s lives. This is an exciting opportunity to pursue that same mission in a new way, alongside a brilliant, passionate team.”
“We were looking for someone who is an original thinker, curious and emotionally intelligent,” said Cindy Witten, executive director of CBC Radio Talk. In all, more than 200 people were considered for the job. “Also, a good conversationalist who is witty and fast on their feet. We wanted someone steeped in arts and culture in this country. We found there were different points of connection with the guests when the host was a creator or an artist themselves.”
Photo: Shad
