Exploring the Teen Drama Phenomenon: Unveiling the Legacy of 'Degrassi' in a New Docuseries
A riveting three-part docuseries delves into the captivating 'lore' and remarkable 40-year legacy of Canada's iconic teen drama, 'Degrassi,' which launched the careers of superstars like Drake Uncover the secrets and impact behind this beloved franchise
WildBrain
Degrassi is getting a documentary.
A new three-part docuseries is set to explore the history of the Canadian teen drama Degrassi. According to Variety, the series will include behind-the-scenes footage and interviews. While no release date has been announced, the project aims to delve into the Degrassi lore and the teenage experience with the involvement of creators, cast, crew, and fans. It will also feature generations of filmmakers who have been influenced by the franchise's 40-year legacy. The docuseries will be directed by Lisa Rideout and produced by WildBrain, the owner of the Degrassi franchise, in collaboration with Canadian production company Peacock Alley.
The documentary will primarily explore the lasting impact of Degrassi across different generations. The franchise, which originated in 1979, has spawned several spinoffs such as Degrassi: The Next Generation and Degrassi: Next Class.
WildBrain CEO Josh Scherba stated, "Degrassi remains incredibly popular, connecting with fans spanning multiple generations, from those who grew up with the show to today's teenagers just discovering it. In fact, Degrassi has a larger global audience now than ever before."
He continued: "Its lasting appeal comes from its unwavering honesty and authenticity, addressing issues and themes that teenagers around the world encounter."
Degrassi has been praised for its portrayal of contentious subjects such as teen pregnancy, gun violence, bullying, and drug abuse.
"Adolescence is a time of many firsts," stated Rideout. "The first time wearing a bra, the first time shaving, the first dance with a crush, the first awkward kiss at a party. Teens stumble their way through these experiences, doing their best to come out unscathed on the other side."
The cast of Degrassi attended Canada's Walk of Fame, according to Mathew Tsang/WireImage. One cast member stated, "Degrassi has depicted the awkward, embarrassing, and unspoken truths of youth for over four decades. As someone who grew up watching Degrassi, I remember the much-needed reassurance I received from the show as a teenager. Degrassi not only helped teenagers feel less alone, but also tackled topics like puberty, sex, relationships, and more. I am excited to showcase the enormous impact Degrassi has had on viewers, the cast, and crew, and to tell the incredible story of one of Canada's most successful and unique franchises."
Adding to Degrassi’s legacy is the fact that many well-known stars got their start there. On Degrassi: The Next Generation, Drake, who then went by Aubrey Graham, portrayed Jimmy Brooks, while Jake Epstein (Suits) starred as Craig Manning and Nina Dobrev (The Vampire Diaries) played Mia Jones. Famous guest stars have also included Keke Palmer and Dan Levy, among others.
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Drake gave a shout-out to his former Degrassi castmate Nina Dobrev when he won his first American Music Award in 2016. He congratulated her on her success during his acceptance speech.
The rapper organized a Degrassi reunion for his song "I'm Upset," filming a music video at the original high school where the series was shot. The video included Dobrev, Shane Kippel (known as Jimmy's best friend Gavin "Spinner" Mason), Miriam MacDonald (Emma Nelson), Cassie Steele (Manny Santos), and other cast members. This took place in 2018.
