Why Representation Matters: A Glimpse into the New Era of Canadian Morning Shows

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‘There aren’t a lot of other hosts who are curve.’ New ‘Breakfast Television’ co-host Meredith Shaw brings size inclusivity to morning TV

By Leanne Delap

September 5, 2023

Citytv has announced that Meredith Shaw will be joining Sid Seixeiro as the new co-host of its flagship morning program, “Breakfast Television.” The co-host chair has been empty since Dina Pugliese stepped down in February after a 16-year run in the position. Shaw, a familiar face to daytime TV viewers, has previously worked as a style expert and fill-in host on shows such as “The Marilyn Denis Show,” “The Social,” “CTV Your Morning,” and “Etalk.” In addition to her TV appearances, Shaw is also a singer-songwriter and a passionate advocate for size inclusivity in the fashion industry, making her an ideal candidate to bring a fresh perspective to morning television.

A Journey to Morning Television

At 38 years old, Shaw’s career path has taken her through various industries, ultimately leading her to her current role on “Breakfast Television.” After graduating from Havergal College and Queen’s University, she embarked on a career as a singer-songwriter, releasing a solo album and touring with the Toronto band Big Sugar. Shaw’s time touring with a group of male musicians taught her the value of humor and empathy, qualities that she has carried with her throughout her career.

Promoting Size Inclusivity

In her work as a curve model for Hudson’s Bay, Penningtons, and Eloquii, Shaw has become a powerful advocate for size inclusivity in the fashion industry. She has helped change the conversation around how fashion is accessed by the two-thirds of Canadian women who are size 14 and above. Shaw’s commitment to size inclusivity will be one of the key focuses of her new role on “Breakfast Television.” She aims to bring greater representation and inclusivity to morning television, stating that she is a proud size 16 and wants to ensure that all viewers feel seen and valued.

A Unique Perspective

What sets Shaw apart as a co-host is her relatability and authenticity. She is refreshingly frank and unguarded, a rare quality in the world of television where PR-guided personas often prevail. Shaw delivers her opinions with buoyancy and positivity, making her highly relatable to viewers. She believes that a sense of humor is crucial for engaging viewers in the early morning and is excited about the possibilities for fun and spontaneity on “Breakfast Television.”

Chemistry with Sid Seixeiro

Shaw is particularly thrilled to be working with Sid Seixeiro, her co-host on “Breakfast Television.” While the pair have not spent much time together off-camera, they immediately clicked during their screen tests. Their chemistry was palpable, and Shaw—along with Seixeiro—immediately felt that they were a perfect match. Shaw’s fiancé, chef Rodney Bowers, also has great onscreen chemistry with her, and the couple previously collaborated on a cooking show called “Double Your Dish” during the pandemic.

The Role of a Morning Show Host

Being a morning show host requires more than just charisma and an engaging personality. It demands having an opinion and standing by one’s beliefs. Shaw embraces the responsibility that comes with her new role and plans to bring her own perspective and values to the show. She is grateful for the opportunity and believes that her journey towards self-confidence and self-acceptance has prepared her to connect with viewers and bring positivity into their mornings.

About the Author

Leanne Delap is a Toronto-based freelance contributor for the Star and The Kit, where she writes about fashion and culture. You can reach her via email: leannedelap@hotmail.com.