The excitement surrounding the return of Canada’s Got Talent (CGT) reached fever pitch on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, as the show premiered its fifth season on City TV, boasting the biggest cash prize in Canadian television history: a whopping $1 million. With aspiring talents from across the country competing, this season promises a rich tapestry of performances that reflect the diverse cultural fabric of Canada.
This year’s panel of judges includes familiar faces in the entertainment industry: Shania Twain, Howie Mandel, Kardinal Offishall, and Katherine Ryan, who will be critiquing and guiding budding stars through their auditions. The decision to include a blend of comedic and musical talents aims to ensure that a wide array of performances will delight audiences.
Among the noteworthy contenders participating this season is Deep Southwest, a charming country duo hailing from Chatham-Kent, who will showcase their talents on the big stage. The pair, consisting of Meg and Pat Whalen, expressed their enthusiasm about being part of the show. "When we announced that we had our TV show partnership with Bell, Canada’s Got Talent reached out to us and they invited us to audition for them," shared Meg Whalen.
After numerous online auditions, the Whalen siblings took the stage at Casino Rama, ultimately performing before a live audience and the legendary Shania Twain. Reflecting on that exhilarating experience, Pat Whalen remarked, "Meg and I have been on stage before, but nothing could have prepared us for that moment when just 100,000 lights, so many cameras, and Shania Twain is just looking you in the eyes." That moment marked a peak in the duo’s artistic journey as they prepare to launch their six-part musical comedy series and release new singles on March 22, 2025, providing fans even more content to look forward to.
Further building excitement for this season is the inclusion of local singer KP Stone, who also made headlines for his unique journey to success. His determination underscores the diverse talent aiming for a breakout moment this season. The platform that CGT provides could turn the tides for many contestants, including KS Stone, as they seek recognition and the grand cash prize.
Another star in the making is Markham-based comedian Sai Kit Lo, who embodies the struggles and triumphs of an Asian comedian bold enough to challenge stereotypes. To describe his journey, Lo said, "Comedy discovered me. I never watched stand-up growing up. I went through a lot of confusion, setbacks and wrong turns before stumbling upon it. But once I did, everything just clicked." His ability to blend humor with cultural nuances allows him to carve out a distinctive niche that resonates with Canadian audiences.
Despite facing challenges due to preconceived notions of immigrant comedians, his resilience shines through. Lo conveyed his aspirations, stating, "If I win the $1 million prize, I would take bolder risks, travel further and free up more time to perform for people who love to laugh." This ambition signals the broader narrative of CGT as a launching pad for hidden talents, allowing artists like him to redefine their spaces in entertainment.
The season premiere set a festive tone as artists showed off their abilities in hope of securing a place in the spotlight. Audiences were encouraged not only to tune in but actively support their favorites as the journey unfolds over subsequent weeks. The energy within the studio and among the contestants reflected the thirst for creativity and entertainment during challenging times, creating a perfect backdrop for potentially life-changing opportunities.
This season promises to deliver not only thrilling performances but also a deeper appreciation for the stories behind each contestant. As these performers step into the limelight, they might not only capture the admiration of judges and fans alike but could redefine what it means to pursue one's passion in a competitive landscape.
With the stakes this high and the cash prize as motivation, Canada’s Got Talent Season 5 is shaping up to be a captivating showcase of raw talent, determination, and the magic of storytelling. The spotlight is set on those unafraid to shine directly beneath it, hoping to garner the chance of a lifetime.
