TVO Docs has acquired the Canadian rights to HighballTV’s music documentary CFNY: The Spirit of Radio. The film focuses on the golden age of radio in Canada and the small but mighty radio station that started a movement.
In 1976, CFNY launched in a small suburban house just north of Toronto and went on to become one of the most influential punk, new wave and alternative radio stations in the world. The s documentary tells the story of the influential radio station and its origins. The documentary features interviews with Canadian music legends including Geddy Lee (RUSH), Jim Kerr (Simple Minds), Steven Page (Barenaked Ladies), Emily Haines (Metric), Ben Kowalewicz (Billy Talent), Peter Hook (New Order/Joy Division), Lol Tolhurst (The Cure), and Andy McCluskey (OMD), Deryck Whibley (Sum41), and more.
The documentary includes an original score written by Broken Social Scene’s Brendan Canning and Ohad Benchetritl; these songs were recorded at several major recording studios including Abbey Road, EastWest, Grant Ave and Toronto’s celebrated venue the El Mocambo.
“CFNY played a pivotal role in shaping Canada’s music landscape and influenced alternative music culture near and far,” said Alexandra Roberts, Commissioning Editor, TVO Docs. “We are proud to present CFNY: The Spirit of Radio on TVO, offering audiences an in-depth look at this iconic station’s legacy and its enduring impact on Canadian artistry.”
The film is directed by Matt Schichter and produced by Matthew Campagna for HighballTV, along with executive producers Alan Cross, Barbara Hall, Chantal Jackson, Ivar Hamilton and Scot Turner.
CLICK HERE & ENTER NOW for your chance to win passes to the private screening brought to you by Rock & Union of the documentary on January 5th, 2026, before it’s official broadcast premiere on TVO Docs on January 6 at 9 pm ET, and its debut via TVO digital platforms on the same day at 9 am ET.
Ad Choices