Canada Post unveiled a new stamp on Wednesday honouring Norman Jewison, the acclaimed Canadian film director who passed away in January at 97. This tribute makes Jewison the newest film industry legend to be celebrated by the Canadian postal service. CBC News


July 25, 2024 Tags:

On a rainy Wednesday afternoon, the Canadian Film Centre (CFC) in Toronto is filled with the sounds of rain blending with music scores from the films of Norman Jewison, one of Hollywood’s most celebrated Canadian directors. Despite the gloomy weather, the mood is festive as family, friends, and film enthusiasts gather at the CFC to celebrate Jewison’s latest honour: a commemorative stamp issued by Canada Post.
As attendees walk under large umbrellas and enter the venue, they are greeted with glasses of bubbly and a special unveiling. The event, hosted by comedian Rick Mercer, highlights Jewison's impressive career and his contribution to the Canadian film industry. Mercer humorously compares Jewison’s new stamp to quintessential Canadian symbols, like maple syrup and prairie sunsets, celebrating Jewison's place in Canadian culture.

The stamp features a photograph of Jewison taken in the CFC theatre in 2007, showcasing him among red movie seats. Jewison, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 97, began his career in television with CBC in 1951 before making his feature film debut with "40 Pounds of Trouble" in 1962. Over his prolific career, Jewison earned several Oscar nominations and won accolades for films like "In the Heat of the Night," "Fiddler on the Roof," and "Moonstruck." In 1999, he received the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award at the Oscars, recognizing his exceptional body of work.

David Cronenberg, another renowned Canadian director, attended the event wearing a hat with Jewison’s initials. Cronenberg spoke about Jewison’s support and enthusiasm for his work, despite their differing styles. He praised Jewison for his genuine kindness and encouragement, which he remembered fondly.

Maxine Bailey, executive director of the CFC, described Jewison as a visionary who not only shaped the Canadian film landscape creatively but also supported emerging filmmakers through the CFC, which he founded in 1988. She noted that Jewison’s stamp captures a part of the CFC, symbolizing his lasting impact on the Canadian film community.

The stamp unveiling was a meaningful tribute to Jewison’s legacy. Canada Post revealed that Jewison had a hand in selecting the image for the stamp and was personally involved in its creation. The stamp commemorates his early days working at his father’s general store, where he had fond memories of being sworn in as a teenager to work in the post office.

Jewison joins other Canadian film icons honoured by Canada Post, including Donald Sutherland, Monique Mercure, Mary Pickford, Christopher Plummer, Mike Myers, and Denys Arcand. This latest tribute ensures that Jewison’s contributions to cinema and Canadian culture will be remembered for years to come.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

You may also like

Canada's Walk of Fame to honour Manitoba folk singer William Prince

William Prince, a celebrated country-folk singer from Peguis First Nation in Manitoba, has been named the recipient of the prestigious....

Three people charged in connection with Liam Payne's death

Three individuals have been charged in connection with the tragic death of former One Direction member Liam Payne, who fell....

Canadian Stage Clears 37-Year Debt For The First Time

For the first time since its founding in 1987, Canadian Stage has managed to erase its long-standing debt, closing the....

Ruby Slippers from 'The Wizard of Oz' Hit the Market 2 Decades After Theft

A pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz is up for auction nearly 20....

Andrea Bocelli Reflects on New Album, Film, and 30 Years in Music

Andrea Bocelli is a voice that resonates globally, touching hearts across generations and cultures. His powerful tenor can evoke deep....

Music Legend Quincy Jones, Producer for Sinatra & Jackson, Dies at 91

Quincy Jones, the legendary music producer and composer known for his extensive career that included producing Michael Jackson's iconic "Thriller"....

U.K. prosecutors are deciding whether to file charges against Russell Brand for assault

British prosecutors are currently reviewing a case against comedian Russell Brand following a file of evidence submitted by police concerning....

Drake films 'No Face' music video at Toronto shopping mall

Drake has just unveiled a new music video for his song “No Face,” and fans in Scarborough will easily recognize....

Universal Reveals New Information About Las Vegas Horror Attraction

Universal Destinations & Experiences (UDX) has exciting news for horror fans: a new year-round attraction called Universal Horror Unleashed is....

Rapper Young Thug takes a plea deal on gang, drug, and gun charges

Rapper Young Thug, born Jeffery Williams, made headlines on Thursday after pleading guilty in Atlanta to several charges related to....

Teri Garr, beloved star of 'Young Frankenstein' and 'Tootsie,' passes away

Teri Garr, the quirky actress best known for her roles in classic comedies like "Young Frankenstein" and "Tootsie," has died....

Erykah Badu Honored As Fashion Icon At CFDA Awards For Her Bold Style

Erykah Badu was awarded the Fashion Icon Award by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) on Monday night....