The music industry in Canada is nowhere near as big as what America has grown. Still, they’ve still discovered an undeniably impressive roster of artists. Over the years, names like Drake, Justin Bieber, and Avril Lavigne have all made waves in their respective genres, reminding the rest of the world that the True North isn’t short on vocal talent. Americans have already tuned into the annual Grammy Awards. On Monday (March 13), their neighbours had the Junos, which celebrate the best of the best in Canadian music.
This year’s ceremony was hosted by Barbie actor Simu Liu in Edmonton, Alberta. Several recording artists came out to perform, including Nickleback, TOBi, and Jessie Reyez. The “Photograph” hitmakers earned an induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Elsewhere, The Weeknd came out on top in terms of trophies last night. He earned an impressive five awards, for Best Artist, Pop Album, Album, Songwriter, and Single.
2023 Juno Awards
Elsewhere at the annual award show, Lavigne was rudely interrupted while introducing another performer, AP Dhillon. While she was speaking to the audience, a topless streaker managed to sneak on stage, proudly parading around with nothing more than pasties covering her nipples. While the “Girlfriend” hitmaker initially didn’t see (or ignored) the intruder, when security failed to intervene after several seconds, she took matters into her own hands.
“Get the f*ck off,” the punk princess demanded before reaching out to swat at the anonymous woman’s chest. “Get the f*ck off, bitch,” Lavigne said again, adding an extra swear for more emphasis. As Page Six notes, the protestor’s back had a message reading “SAVE THE GREEN BELT,” making reference to the Ontario government’s recent decision to sell land to developers. While her message isn’t a bad one, her timing and delivery are nothing short of inappropriate, as many Twitter users are pointing out.
Avril Lavigne Takes Care of Business
“This was so disrespectful and random at the same time,” one person posted after catching the now-viral clip. In a helpful explanation, another user weighed in with, “So for those that don’t live in Canada or Ontario, Doug Ford the premier wants to sell hectares of green belt (nature) land to developers. This woman was protesting against that. A great message – but she should have picked a different way and location to do it.” See more Twitter reactions to Avril Lavigne’s unexpected guest at the Juno Awards below, and check back later for more pop culture news.
The way security strolled up all lackadaisical
— Alana M. Yzola (@AlanaMYzola) March 14, 2023
Truly rack city
— BOTTEGA VENETA
(@sperofthemoment) March 14, 2023
Canadian security at the #junoawards was so impressive tonight. A topless idiot walks up on stage while Avril Lavigne is introducing an act and security dude meanders his way up eventually. Avril handled it like most Canadians would. All she needed was a beer. #Junos2023 #Junos pic.twitter.com/9HrknevMFq
— Mark (Bundy) Kennedy
(@MarkKennedyQW) March 14, 2023
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