Janz co-hosted the program Legacy Makers, which aired on YES TV, amid an illustrious career spanning over six decades.

CALGARY, AB, November 5th, 2024 – YES TV is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Darrel Janz, co-host of Legacy Makers, a joint production between YES TV and TCF4 Productions. A mainstay in Alberta’s broadcasting community for decades, Darrel’s warmth, dedication, and passion for storytelling resonated with viewers across the country. He leaves behind a lasting impact that will continue to inspire us all.

Janz began his broadcasting career in 1962 at CFAM Radio in Altona, Manitoba. In 1973, he joined CFCN (now CTV Calgary), where he served as a co-anchor for the station’s evening news. Over the next four decades, he became known for his dynamic and engaging presence in the Canadian media landscape.

Bill Clements, Director and Producer of Legacy Makers, expressed his sadness: “When we talk about Legacy Makers, Darrel Janz is the epitome of just that, an absolute legacy maker over generations of time.” Jacqueline Clements, Darrel’s co-host on Legacy Makers, shared: “Darrel is going to be really missed. He was a great storyteller; I loved working with him – he was such an amazing mentor to me, and, you know, he really helped build our show.”

Throughout his career, Janz covered countless significant events, from local stories to major international news, earning numerous awards and accolades for his outstanding journalism. In 2013, he was the inaugural inductee to the Western Association of Broadcasters’ Broadcast Hall of Fame. The year he was also recognized by the city of Calgary with a Community Achievement Award for his community advocacy.

YES TV and TCF4 Productions have produced several new episodes featuring Darrel, which will air in Season Three. Reflecting on his dedication, Darrel’s daughter Shannon shared, “When he signed the contract for Season 3, he was the happiest ever, being able to work until he was 84.” She added, “His wonderful display of courage to keep working through personal health struggles was inspiring to us all.” Season Two of Legacy Makers featured notable guests, including Olympians Donavan Bailey and Steve Mesler, as well as journalist Lisa Bowes.

YES TV will be honouring Darrel by re-airing a special episode of Legacy Makers, featuring Darrel Janz being interviewed by co-host Jacqueline Clements during the show’s timeslot of Friday, November 8^th at 9:30 PM. The episode highlights Darrel’s impact on many Canadians and the legacy that he has left behind. “Darrel Janz was so much more than just a broadcaster; he was a legend in the Canadian media landscape whose storytelling has left a profound impact.” said Melissa McEachern, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Content Officer, YES TV.

Darrel Janz’s legacy will live on in the stories he told and the lives he touched. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. YES TV thanks Darrel for the incredible mark he left behind, inspiring generations as a true Legacy Maker. He will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held on December 5th at 1 PM at Centre Street Church in Calgary.

Media Contact:

Gavin Powell

Director of Marketing; YES TV

gpowell@yestv.com

ABOUT YES TV®

YES TV is a commercial broadcaster committed to positive, family-friendly entertainment programming. YES TV is licensed and regulated by the CRTC as a religious channel, available in 6.8 million homes across Canada.

YES TV consists of three over-the-air conventional stations, two local stations, CKCS-DT (Calgary, AB) and CKES-DT (Edmonton, AB), and one regional station, CITS-DT (Hamilton, ON). The regional broadcaster reaches the Greater Toronto Area with re-broadcast transmitters in London and Ottawa. YES TV is a Crossroads Television Systems Inc. brand, an independently owned Canadian incorporated Not-For-Profit Corporation.

ABOUT TCF4 PRODUCTIONS

TCF4 Productions is a Canadian-based production company located in Okotoks, Alberta. It was founded by the husband-and-wife team of Bill and Jacqueline Clements in 2012.

Our tagline, “Purpose Driven. Life Inspired,” reflects our commitment to creating wholesome entertainment for the entire family. We are passionate about showcasing people’s stories and giving them center stage.

The agreement will see the broadcaster remain the Canadian home for WHEEL OF FORTUNE and JEOPARDY! for the next four years.

BURLINGTON, ON., September 3, 2024 – YES TV, Canada’s most-watched Faith and Family Values Channel, is excited to announce a multi-year renewal with CBS International Canada, a division of Paramount Entertainment Canada ULC. This agreement ensures that YES TV will remain the Canadian home for beloved viewer favourites WHEEL OF FORTUNE and JEOPARDY! through the 2027/28 broadcast year.

In an exciting development, Ryan Seacrest has signed a multi-year agreement to host the iconic game show WHEEL OF FORTUNE, beginning with the program’s 42nd season this Fall. This news follows Pat Sajak’s announcement of his retirement after hosting the program since 1981. Seacrest will bring his charismatic energy to the beloved game show.

“I could not think of a better replacement for Pat Sajak than Ryan Seacrest. We look forward to Ryan resonating with current WHEEL OF FORTUNE fans and captivating a new generation of viewers for the iconic program,” said Melissa McEachern, Chief Operating Officer & Chief Content Officer of YES TV. “We would like to take this opportunity to wish Pat Sajak all the best in retirement and congratulate him on a tremendous career on behalf of YES TV and Canadian fans of WHEEL OF FORTUNE.”

YES TV will also retain first-run broadcast rights for the reality courtroom title HOT BENCH and will premiere the highly anticipated new game show series, FLIP SIDE, hosted by Jaleel White this Fall. This new play-along game show tests general opinions from survey results about how different groups respond to questions. By guessing the top answers, teams have the opportunity to win $10,000.

The agreement also brings JUDGE JUDY back to Canadian television, along with other viewer favourites, including BLUE BLOODS, BULL, and NUMB3RS. In addition to conventional means, these titles, along with the entire YES TV schedule, can be live-streamed for free via the YES TV App or directly at www.yestv.com/streaming, as the broadcaster remains committed to meeting the ever-changing needs of its viewers and advertisers.

“We are excited to continue our partnership with CBS International Canada, in bringing hit shows WHEEL OF FORTUNE and JEOPARDY! to our viewers and advertisers,” said David Garby, Director of Sales and General Manager of YES TV. “These programs have been staples in many Canadian households for decades, and we’re thrilled to add a new game show hosted by Jaleel White to our winning lineup.”

New seasons of WHEEL OF FORTUNE and JEOPARDY! will premiere on September 9th on YES TV.

ABOUT YES TV®

YES TV is a commercial broadcaster committed to positive, family-friendly entertainment programming. YES TV is licensed and regulated by the CRTC as a religious channel, available in 6.8 million homes across Canada.

YES TV consists of three over-the-air conventional stations, two local stations, CKCS-DT (Calgary, AB) and CKES-DT (Edmonton, AB), and one regional station, CITS-DT (Hamilton, ON). The regional broadcaster reaches the Greater Toronto Area with re-broadcast transmitters in London and Ottawa. YES TV is a Crossroads Television Systems Inc. brand, an independently owned Canadian incorporated Not-For-Profit Corporation.

Stewart retires after more than 20 years of service with the broadcaster.

BURLINGTON, ON., February 26, 2024 – YES TV, Canada’s most-watched Faith and Family Values Channel, bids farewell to a key figure in the organization’s history as Chief Operating Officer, Glenn Stewart retires after more than 20 years of dedicated service. His retirement is effective as of February 23rd, 2024.

Stewart’s association with YES TV, previously Crossroads Television System, began in 1998. During his tenure at CanWest Global, Glenn played a pivotal role in the launch of YES TV. He would go on to officially join the broadcaster full-time in 2000, overseeing National Sales. Following a brief retirement in 2013, Stewart returned to YES TV in 2015 as the Director of Sales and Programming, eventually ascending to the role of Chief Operating Officer in 2020.

“Glenn’s dedication to YES TV’s mission and his strong and deep knowledge of the broadcast industry have been a driving force in helping YES TV reach its full potential.” said Kevin Shepherd, CEO of YES TV. “It is not an exaggeration to say that Glenn’s impact will be felt for years, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.”

In corresponding moves, the organization also announced the promotion of David Garby to the role of General Manager/Director of Sales. Garby who joined YES TV in 2019 will oversee the day-to-day operations of the broadcaster. In addition, the organization has appointed Melissa McEachern as the Chief Operating Officer of YES TV, in addition to her current position as Chief Content Officer at the network.

YES TV extends its heartfelt gratitude to Glenn Stewart for his significant contributions to the organization over the span of more than two decades. Glenn played an integral role in shaping the success and growth of YES TV, leaving an indelible mark on the organization. As he embarks on the next chapter of his life, YES TV wishes him a fulfilling retirement filled with joy, prosperity, and continued success in all his endeavors.

ABOUT YES TV®

YES TV is a commercial television station committed to positive, family-friendly entertainment programming. YES TV is licensed and regulated by the CRTC as a religious channel, available in 6.8 million homes across Canada.
YES TV consists of three over-the-air conventional stations, two local stations, CKCS-DT (Calgary, AB) and CKES-DT (Edmonton, AB), and one regional broadcaster, CITS-DT (Hamilton, ON). The regional broadcaster reaches the Greater Toronto Area with re-broadcast transmitters in London and Ottawa. YES TV is a Crossroads Television Systems Inc. brand, an independently owned Canadian incorporated Not-For-Profit Corporation.

The building acquisition establishes the broadcaster’s headquarters in Burlington, Ontario, featuring three state-of-the-art studios and office spaces.

BURLINGTON, ON., February 20, 2024 – YES TV, Canada’s most-watched Faith and Family Values Channel, is pleased to announce the acquisition of the building originally built and established by its sister organization, Crossroads Christian Communications Incorporated.

In 2018, the property at 1295 North Service Road was sold by Crossroads and when it became available again for purchase, YES TV began exploring the opportunity to recover the property, reinforcing both organizations’ commitment to their Burlington and Halton roots. Originally built in 1992, ownership of the building secures a home for both the Broadcaster and Christian charity.

The purchase decision is part of an overarching strategy to consolidate and strengthen the organizations’ abilities to engage viewing audiences and fulfill their missions. The strategic move underscores YES TV and Crossroads’ decades-long commitment to creating innovative partnerships and providing sought-after rental opportunities while fostering a more robust and sustainable operational framework for the future.

“We are thrilled to have completed the purchase of the building Crossroads founded, a crucial asset that will significantly bolster our purposeful operations,” said Kevin Shepherd, CEO of YES TV and Crossroads. “This strategic investment reflects our unwavering dedication to enhancing our impact and improving our ability to create a hub that delivers the mission with compassion and effectiveness.”

The newly acquired facility features three cutting-edge studios, thoughtfully designed meeting rooms, a sprawling 7,500 sq. ft ballroom, and a spacious 8,000 sq. ft atrium. With over 50 offices and co-working spaces, the building fosters a dynamic work environment. The ground floor features a spacious commercial kitchen and studio areas, which cater to both YES TV’s production and broadcasting needs while providing solutions for external productions seeking top-tier studio and event rental facilities.

The building in Burlington is poised to serve as a central hub for YES TV and Crossroads’ multifaceted initiatives, enabling the expansion of innovative media programs while fostering a collaborative environment that supports their diverse needs and those of their partner organizations. A prime location for television and film production centrally located in Burlington, close to Hamilton and the surrounding region, YES TV’s unique facilities are equipped with three large studios. This includes sound baffling, studio-grade lighting grids, parking, loading bays, make-up rooms, commercial kitchen, a carpentry shop, and office space available for rent.

FOR RENTAL INQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT: Jeff Hogan jhogan@yestv.com 905-332-6400 x3233

ABOUT YES TV®

YES TV is a commercial television station committed to positive, family-friendly entertainment programming. YES TV is licensed and regulated by the CRTC as a religious channel, available in 6.8 million homes across Canada.
YES TV consists of three over-the-air conventional stations, two local stations, CKCS-DT (Calgary, AB) and CKES-DT (Edmonton, AB), and one regional broadcaster, CITS-DT (Hamilton, ON). The regional broadcaster reaches the Greater Toronto Area with re-broadcast transmitters in London and Ottawa. YES TV is a Crossroads Television Systems Inc. brand, an independently owned Canadian incorporated Not-For-Profit Corporation.

YES TV Launches Live Streaming Platform, Providing Viewers with Free Access to their Favourite Shows

App to be available on numerous platforms, including at http://www.yestv.com

BURLINGTON, ON., October 18, 2023 – YES TV, Canada’s most-watched Faith and Family Values Channel, is delighted to announce the launch of its all-new streaming platform. This development will grant users free, live access to YES TV’s viewer-favourite programs, including iconic shows such as Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, Blue Bloods, and Bull, alongside other beloved titles.

The streaming platform will be accessible Canada-wide on a wide array of devices, ensuring that the platform is truly barrier-free. Compatible platforms include iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and a variety of Smart TV’s including Samsung, LG, Sony, and Android TV’s. For those who prefer to stream directly from their laptops or desktops, the platform will be accessible directly from YES TV’s website at http://www.yestv.com

“We’re thrilled to introduce our all-new streaming platform, which is a testament to our commitment to serving our viewers better. With this development, we aim to bring the values and entertainment YES TV is known for even closer to the hearts and homes of Canadians. This is a significant step forward, and we believe it will bring inspiration, joy and positive family entertainment to even more households. Thank you for your unwavering support, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you.” Kevin Shepherd, CEO of YES TV.

Within the app, users can select from any of YES TV’s three stations, spanning Ontario (CITS), Calgary (CKCS) and Edmonton (CKES). In addition, the platform will also serve as the exclusive hub to numerous YES TV original programs, conveniently available on-demand.

“We have partnered with our valued program distributors and suppliers to bring YES TV content closer to our viewers by making access available on their favourite devices. The flexibility will undoubtedly deliver added value for our viewers and advertisers.” Said YES TV’s Chief Operating Officer, Glenn Stewart.

The YES TV streaming platform can now be downloaded from respective App Stores by searching “YES TV” or at http://www.yestv.com. Whether at home or on the go, viewers can look forward to a user-friendly experience that brings their favourite YES TV programs closer than ever before.

ABOUT YES TV®

YES TV is a commercial television station committed to positive, family-friendly entertainment programming. YES TV is licensed and regulated by the CRTC as a religious channel, available in 6.8 million homes across Canada.
YES TV consists of three over-the-air conventional stations, two local stations, CKCS-DT (Calgary, AB) and CKES-DT (Edmonton, AB), and one regional broadcaster, CITS-DT (Hamilton, ON). The regional broadcaster reaches the Greater Toronto Area with re-broadcast transmitters in London and Ottawa. YES TV is a Crossroads Television Systems Inc. brand, an independently owned Canadian incorporated Not-For-Profit Corporation.