The best case scenario is Drake. He hosted in 2011 and was funny, charming, current and he magically erased that self-conscious cringe you usually wear through a big part of the broadcast. He just dropped a new album, If You're Reading This It's Too Late, and promotion duties will probably keep him from hosting again this year.
So the field is wide open. Let’s look at some contenders:
Could-be hosts from the host city of Hamilton:
1. Martin Short
He's currently staring on the struggling/under-rated/hilarious Fox sitcom Mulaney. Co-hosted the 1985 JUNOS with Andrea Martin.
2. Eugene Levy
Created and stars in CBC's Schitt's Creek but the JUNOS are on CTV, so there's a lack of network synergy there.
3. Rick Campanelli
A strong contender, he hosts CTV’s Entertainment Tonight Canada and began his career at Much Music.
4. Jason Jones
Beloved correspondent on The Daily Show. In a perfect world, he would co-host with his hilarious wife, Samantha Bee. Lacks a musical connection.
5. Dave Thomas
No, not the Wendy's guy. We're talking about the two-time JUNO winner for Comedy Album of the Year as part of the seminal Canadiana duo, Bob and Doug McKenzie. They'd make powerhouse co-hosts. Here's hoping.
Beautiful JUNO synergy: Bob + Doug + Geddy Lee of Rush
Non-Hamiltonian Contenders: 1. Rick MercerHe replaced Jian Ghomeshi as host of this year’s Giller Prize. May be taking up the mantel of Canada’s go-to host. Appears on rival network CBC’s Rick Mercer Report. A safe bet.
2. Howie Mandel
He hosted in '86 and '87. His personal website hasn't been updated in at least six months, he may have time on his hands.
3. Ellen Page Adorable. Incredible. Modest. Charming. Could we ask for a better host and ambassador?
4. Justin Bieber
Winner of the JUNO Fan Choice award 2011-2014. Gearing up for his Comedy Central roast next month. Insufferable.
5. Ben Mulroney
As host of CTV’s etalk, he's the face of entertainment reportage on the JUNO's home network. A serious contender.
Who do you hope will host? Leave a comment and let us know.
