Move over established pop groups—there’s a fresh supergroup story unfolding on YTV. A new spin on a beloved talent competition invites six former NEXT STAR finalists to join forces, exploring what it takes to shine as a five-member unit rather than as individuals. The show nods to the power of collaboration, aiming to crown a mega group that resonates with audiences across Canada and beyond.
THE NEXT STAR: SUPERGROUP premieres on a Tuesday at 7 p.m. and follows the journey of 30 hopefuls who travel to Toronto to form ten teams of five. Throughout the season, these young performers will receive guidance from a team of mentors including Cory Lee, known for her work on Degrassi: The Next Generation, and Damon Sharpe, who has worked on The X Factor and with Big Time Rush. A panel of industry experts will weigh in, adding depth to the coaching and helping teams grow. With Jordan Francis, known for his role in Camp Rock, hosting, the show promises a compelling blend of music, personality, and competition that fans have come to expect.
When the format reaches its peak, two groups will face off in a live finale. Canadian viewers will have a direct say in the result by voting online or via text, making the outcome a shared moment for audiences at home. The grand prize includes the chance to record two original songs, which will be released by Sony Music Canada, along with an exclusive management deal with 21 Entertainment. This combination of a major label release and professional management can position the winner for a meaningful start in the industry. [Citation: Sony Music Canada; 21 Entertainment]
Fans of the original NEXT STAR will recognize familiar faces returning to the arena. Among the alumni rejoining the competition are Mimoza Duot, 17, from Winnipeg, Manitoba, who finished in the Top 6 on Season 3; Isabelle Stern, 17, from Lorraine, Quebec, also a Season 3 Top 6 finalist; Parker Schmidt, 14, from Duncan, British Columbia, a Season 4 Top 6 finalist; Ryan Hawken, 16, from Toronto, Ontario, a Season 5 Top 6 finalist; Amer Dhahliwal, 17, from Brampton, Ontario, a Season 5 Top 6 finalist; and Shania Fillmore, 17, from Salisbury, New Brunswick, a Season 4 Top 6 finalist. Their return adds nostalgia and fresh energy, inviting longtime viewers to witness their continued growth as performers. [Citation: NEXT STAR alumni records]
In addition to the televised grid, the show is expanding its footprint with web-exclusive content. Mark “Suki” Suknanan, known from THE NEXT STAR and THE ZONE, will host the SUPERGROUP AFTERSHOW, a companion web component. Viewers will also get access to behind-the-scenes clips on FLIPSIDE and a web series called RIVALS that spotlights the evolving dynamic between coaches Cory and Damon. These digital extensions invite fans deeper into the storytelling and the making of a pop group. [Citation: Online companion shows]
Fans won’t want to miss the premiere, set for a Tuesday at 7 p.m. on YTV, with new episodes rolling out weekly. The program blends competitive performance with the realities of forming a market-ready group, emphasizing teamwork, leadership, and the creative process required to balance individual talent with group chemistry. Canadian audiences will have voting power that complements the on-screen performances, creating a live, participatory viewing experience. The show is positioned as a lively addition to Canada’s entertainment landscape, reflecting a growing appetite for homegrown pop acts and multi-platform storytelling. [Citation: YTV programming guide]
As the season progresses, viewers will witness the evolution from a 30-person pool to the two final groups that reach the public stage. Expect dramatic moments, memorable performances, and the raw honesty that comes with building a group from scratch. The story centers on resilience, collaboration, and the electricity of a live reveal where audience input can shape the winner. THE NEXT STAR: SUPERGROUP looks to be more than a music competition; it’s a pathway for young artists to transform aspiration into a professional career while entertaining a wide audience across Canada. [Citation: Entertainment press]