TORONTO (November 18, 2025) – The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s (CRTC) long-awaited update to the definition of Canadian content may strengthen the future of Canadian storytelling, but ACTRA says the real test is whether this framework will create actual opportunities for Canadian performers.

“We are glad to finally see Canadian equity required in streamer partnerships and higher thresholds for Canadian key creatives,” said ACTRA National President Eleanor Noble. “And making sure those key creative jobs go to real human beings – not AI – was a must which ACTRA demanded through our advocacy efforts.”

ACTRA cautions, however, that the definitions leave major questions unresolved.

“We still don’t know if Canadian lead performers will get the weight they deserve, or if streamers and broadcasters can bend the rules without giving Canadians real creative leadership and key roles,” Noble added. “The next ruling on spending obligations is where we shall see if this framework will create actual opportunities for Canadian performers. We need all of these definitions to have strong teeth, and not allow billionaire-owned streamers and broadcasters to blur the lines.”

Earlier this year, ACTRA presented testimony at the CRTC’s public hearings in Gatineau, Quebec, calling for a modern, enforceable definition of Canadian content, stronger protections around the use of AI, and policies that put Canadian performers first while strengthening the country’s creative talent and audiovisual industry.

About ACTRA:

Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) is the national union of professional performers working in recorded media in Canada. ACTRA represents the interests of over 30,000 members across the country – the foundation of Canada’s highly acclaimed professional performing community.

Media Contact:
Carol Taverner, ACTRA National Public Relations Officer, Email: ctaverner@actra.ca