Q GETS NEW HOST
Rapper replaces Ghomeshi
Reaction on social media has been mixed but mostly positive on CBC’s choice of rapper Shad as the new host of cultural affairs show Q.
The popular program has been in disarray since disgraced host Jian Ghomeshi was fired last year in the wake of a sex scandal.
The broadcaster said it chose Shad, 32, from London, Ont., after an “exhaustive search” involving more than 200 candidates.
The CBC, which said the program will keep its name when it relaunches in mid- April, has been searching for a permanent replacement since it fired Ghomeshi last October. Reaction was mostly positive: kPod Media tweeted: “Never cared to listen to the Q before today’s announcement. Good move CBC!”
Michael Thomas tweeted: “Shad hosting Q.” CBC confirms the new host of “Q?: the excellent SHAD!”
But not everyone is convinced that the rapper was the best choice.
Marjorie Law tweeted: “@ CBCRadioQ I’m white, 68 and female. How is Shad going to keep me as a listener? Maybe Q doesn’t care? Listened to CBC radio my entire life!”
But another tweeter, Joanna, brushed aside those concerns:
“The criticism of the Shad choice for Q because he is a hip hop artist is just so dumb. So dumb.”
Cindy Witten, executive director of CBC Radio Talk, said they sought a “good conversationalist who is witty and fast on their feet” and steeped in arts and culture.
“We were looking for someone who is an original thinker, curious and emotionally intelligent,” said Witten in a report posted late Tuesday on the CBC website.
She said the new show will include more musical performances and will be less structured with a more conversational tone.
Shad, born Shadrach Kabango, is a multiple Juno- nominated artist who won the 2011 prize for rap recording of the year for his studio album TSOL.
His first full- length release was in 2005 with When the Music’s Over and he broke out with his followup The Old Prince, which was nominated for a Polaris Prize. Shad’s most recent release was 2014’ s Flying Colours.
“Joining the Q team is an honour,” Shad told the CBC late Tuesday.
“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.”
The Ghomeshi sexual assault case has been put over until March 27 when a conference between the defence and prosecution will be held before a judge.
Ghomeshi, who has admitted engaging in rough sex but said it was consensual, faces seven counts of sexual assault and one of overcoming resistance by choking.
The alleged assaults for which he is charged occurred between 2002 and 2008.
“It was a difficult time last fall and it is behind us,” Witten said.
“We’re excited to introduce Canadians to their new host and a fresh and lively Q.”