Highlights from the Banff World Media Festival’s Rockie Awards 2022
The French-language series Empathie, created by screenwriter Lorence Longpre, was awarded the Grand Jury Prize at the Banff World Media Festival’s Rockie Awards. The Canadian series, produced by Trio Orange, follows a criminologist-turned-psychiatrist in a Montreal hospital interacting with diverse patients. Longpre expressed gratitude for the award in a pre-recorded video message.
In the best English-language drama category, HBO’s The Pitt emerged victorious, surpassing other contenders like Canada’s Heated Rivalry and Plan B, as well as U.S. series The Handmaid’s Tale and British drama Reckless. The series creator, R. Scott Gemmill, a Canadian-born writer and producer, expressed his joy at receiving the honor at the gala ceremony.
HBO’s The Chair Company was awarded the best English-language comedy, while Malin Akerman won the best drama performance for her role in Netflix’s The Hunting Wives. Akerman described her character, Margo Banks, as a "spicy gal" during her acceptance speech.
The best feature film prize was presented to Mountainhead, the directorial debut of Succession creator Jesse Armstrong. Armstrong expressed his honor at being recognized among the global talent in the industry.
Mae Martin, the creator and comic behind Wayward, received the Creative Voice Award and shared her newfound ambition and love for collaboration in the creative process. Tantoo Cardinal, a Canadian indigenous actor, was honored with the career achievement award for her contributions to indigenous storytelling.
Ken Jeong, known for his role in Community, received the Sir Peter Ustinov comedy award, while Jason Priestley, famous for Beverly Hills, 90210, was presented with the Canadian Award of Distinction for his contributions to the Canadian film and television industry. The Simpsons won the best animated series, and Aimee Lou Wood was awarded the best performance in a comedy for the British series Film Club.
The BBC’s The Graham Norton Show and Jeffrey Dean Morgan-hosted Destination X were recognized as the best comedy and variety series and best competition and game show series, respectively. American TV shows led the nominations at the Rockie Awards, followed by U.K. series. The event celebrated the diverse talent and creativity in the television industry.