Mixed reaction to Shad as Q host
TORONTO — 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!”
Dianne Buckner said: “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!”
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.
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 Junonominated artist who won the 2011 prize for rap recording of the year for his studio album TSOL.
“Joining the Q team is an honour,” Shad told the CBC late Tuesday.