Comedy Invasion Series Earns Canadian Screen Awards 2024 Nomination

In a significant nod to diversity and representation in the entertainment industry, the TV series "Comedy Invasion," specifically its episode "Comedy Invasion: Rez Style," has been honored with a nomination for Best Comedy Special at the Canadian Screen Awards 2024. This recognition is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time an all-diverse Canadian content stand-up comedy TV series, created by a diverse team, has received such an accolade. The series faced considerable challenges in its journey to the screen, having been turned down by every Canadian broadcaster from development through to distribution.

At the heart of "Comedy Invasion: Rez Style" is B.C.’s Squamish Nation comic Keith Nahanee, who not only wrote but also stars in the episode. Nahanee's performance, which humorously explores life on an Indigenous reservation, is both a personal and cultural narrative. The episode is dedicated to his late mother, who passed away in 2022 and was present at his last comedy show. This poignant tribute adds depth to the comedy special, making it more than just a series of jokes but a story with heart and significance.

The creation and distribution of "Comedy Invasion" were spearheaded by Quentin Lee and Cindy Au Yeung. Lee, who identifies as a queer API non-binary single-parent immigrant from Hong Kong, self-financed the series and utilized their niche streaming platform Asian American Movies / AAM.tv for distribution. The series found a global audience through U.S. distributor Viva Pictures, which made it available on Amazon Prime, The Roku Channel, and Tubi.

Following their collaboration on "Comedy Invasion," Nahanee, Lee, and Au Yeung established Rez Comedy Ltd., a majority Indigenous-owned company. Their aim was to produce "Rez Comedy," a new stand-up comedy television show featuring all Indigenous and Canadian comics, drawing inspiration from "Rez Style." Despite initial support from APTN and Canada Media Fund in June 2023, the project faced hurdles moving into production. In response, the team decided to adapt the concept into an independent feature film, currently seeking funding through crowdfunding efforts with plans to begin shooting in June.

The Canadian Screen Awards nomination has been met with enthusiasm by the creators. Quentin Lee expressed gratitude for the recognition, seeing it as validation of their vision as a television creator. Cindy Au Yeung highlighted the importance of creating a platform for diverse, BIPOC Canadian stand-up comedians—a group often overlooked in mainstream entertainment. Keith Nahanee views the nomination as timely support for their new venture, Rez Comedy, emphasizing its role as a critical lifeline for the project.

This nomination not only celebrates the achievements of those involved in "Comedy Invasion: Rez Style" but also underscores the importance of diversity and representation in media. It serves as an example of how perseverance and dedication to showcasing underrepresented voices can lead to recognition on prestigious platforms such as the Canadian Screen Awards.