Entertainment – mackaycartoons

Tuesday December 31, 2024

December 31, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday December 31, 2024

2024 Year In Review

The year 2024 will be remembered as a time of seismic shifts, stirring triumphs, and somber farewells. Canada and the United States were no strangers to tumult and transformation as they navigated an unrelenting tide of political, economic, and cultural change.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Canada

In Canada, political gridlock and public dissatisfaction loomed large. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced sagging poll numbers, with voters increasingly frustrated by the affordability crisis and the government’s handling of homelessness and opioid addiction. The Bank of Canada’s vacillation on interest rates did little to inspire confidence, as Canadians grappled with rising living costs. Trudeau’s Liberal government was further destabilized by the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, sparking speculation that Mark Carney might step into the role of Finance Minister to steady the ship. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre surged in popularity with his populist promise to “Axe the Tax” on carbon, galvanizing his base as the nation braced for the possibility of a federal election. Jagmeet Singh’s NDP also remained a vocal advocate for addressing the homelessness crisis, though with limited sway in the gridlocked Parliament.

Graeme Gallery 2024: Ontario

In provincial news, Doug Ford’s government in Ontario continued to stir controversy, from banning cell phones in schools to prioritizing a spa at Ontario Place over environmental and community concerns. His ban on new bike lanes raised eyebrows and underscored his contentious approach to urban planning. Natural disasters compounded the nation’s woes, with Alberta and British Columbia ravaged by wildfires and catastrophic flooding, and Hurricane Beryl leaving a trail of destruction in Atlantic Canada. The Francis Scott Key Bridge disaster in Baltimore added another tragic chapter to the year’s challenges. Amid these struggles, Canadians found moments of unity and pride. Swimmer Summer McIntosh shone at the Paris Olympics, earning accolades for her record-breaking performances and bringing a glimmer of hope to a weary nation after the drone spying scandal that plagued the women’s soccer team. The Canadian men’s Olympic relay team delivered a stunning gold medal victory, reaffirming Canada’s athletic prowess on the world stage. Taylor Swift’s blockbuster Eras Tour concerts in Toronto and Vancouver not only dazzled fans but also injected millions into local economies. Meanwhile, the LCBO and Canada Post strikes further tested Canadians’ patience, highlighting labour issues in critical sectors.

News: 2024: Year in Review

Graeme Gallery 2024: Trump

In the United States, the political landscape was dominated by the dramatic return of Donald Trump, whose re-election campaign survived legal woes and even an assassination attempt. His audacious proposals, including imposing 25% tariffs and floating the idea of a 51st state, polarized the nation. Figures like J.D. Vance and Matt Gaetz played pivotal roles in rallying support for Trump, while Kash Patel emerged as a key confidant during the campaign sealing the deal for a controversial appointment to FBI director. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy faltered, overshadowed by the waning presence of President Joe Biden, whose poignant farewell address included a call for unity and resilience. As the year closed, the transition period buzzed with speculation, fuelled by Trump’s unconventional nomination suggestions, including Pete Hegseth and Elon Musk, whose political influence grew exponentially. RFK Jr. also made headlines with his independent candidacy, challenging the traditional two-party dominance.

What a headline!

Globally, the year was marked by ongoing conflict and pivotal leadership changes. The war in Ukraine entered its 1,000th day, with President Zelenskyy signalling readiness for peace talks, even as Vladimir Putin remained steadfast in his ambitions. In the Middle East, the war between Israel and Gaza expanded, pulling in Iran and Hezbollah, while the Assad regime in Syria finally crumbled. Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership in Israel was both a rallying point and a subject of intense global scrutiny. Sudan’s internal strife and Haiti’s descent into lawlessness further underscored a world in turmoil. In Europe, Keir Starmer’s election as UK Prime Minister signalled a shift in British politics, and France faced its own critical elections, reshaping its political landscape, while in Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum made history as the nation’s first female president. The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris provided a poignant symbol of resilience amidst the chaos.

The world also bid farewell to towering figures. Canada mourned the loss of Brian Mulroney and Murray Sinclair, while the U.S. grieved for Jimmy Carter. The arts lost luminaries such as Maggie Smith, Alice Munro, James Earl Jones, and Quincy Jones, leaving behind legacies that will endure for generations.

News: Year in review: Notable people who died in 2024

Among the more unusual figures to capture the public’s imagination was Luigi Mangione, a notorious criminal convicted of killing a private health executive. Despite his heinous crime, Mangione garnered a bizarre social media cult following, with supporters romanticizing his actions as a misguided rebellion against systemic injustices in healthcare.

Amid these heavy moments, there were sparks of joy and cultural milestones. Glen Powell and Anna Sawai captivated audiences with standout performances, while athletes like Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles rewrote the history books. Canada celebrated its own cultural moments with the continued rise of emerging artists and a significant presence in global cinema, spearheaded by the Toronto International Film Festival’s record-breaking attendance. Breakout musical acts like Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter gave the world its soundtrack, and viral moments like the “Dancing with the Stars” leg lift brought levity to the digital age. The cinematic triumph of “Oppenheimer,” crowned with multiple Oscars, reminded audiences of the enduring power of storytelling.

1997: The year that was

As 2025 dawns, the world holds its breath. Canada may be on the cusp of a federal election, with Pierre Poilievre poised to challenge Trudeau’s grip on power. In the U.S., Trump’s second term could see dramatic shifts in domestic and international policy, from sweeping trade changes to potential statehood ambitions. Figures like Tim Walz are expected to play a crucial role in mediating partisan divides, while AI and space exploration may see further breakthroughs with Musk’s continued investments. Global conflicts could de-escalate—or intensify—depending on fragile negotiations in Ukraine and the Middle East. The rise of AI, which integrated seamlessly into daily life in 2024, might accelerate in unexpected ways, reshaping industries and personal lives alike.

Climate scientists are predicting another year of extreme weather, but advances in renewable energy and sustainability may offer glimmers of hope. And who knows? With Elon Musk’s influence continuing to grow, perhaps Mars colonization will take its first tangible steps in 2025.

The year ahead promises to be as unpredictable as ever, with moments of brilliance and hardship intertwined. If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that resilience and innovation remain humanity’s most powerful tools. Here’s to the adventures—and challenges—that 2025 will bring.

As I put the finishing touches on my year-end illustration for the Hamilton Spectator, I find myself reflecting on what 2024 has brought us. It’s a great honour to have the A1 assignment for the final edition, especially after 28 years as an editorial cartoonist. However, I can’t help but feel a bittersweet twinge, given the uncertain future of print media.

This year has been marked by political upheaval, economic struggles, and cultural milestones that remind us just how unpredictable our times can be. In Canada, we witnessed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau grappling with rising living costs and public frustration, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre made waves with his populist promises. Doug Ford’s controversial decisions in Ontario added to the mix, sparking debates on everything from urban planning to environmental concerns.

On the other side of the border, Donald Trump’s dramatic return to the political stage kept everyone on their toes, overshadowing Joe Biden and raising questions about the future of American politics. Meanwhile, global crises continued to unfold, leaving many of us feeling a mix of concern and urgency.

But amidst all the chaos, there were moments of unity and pride. Athletes like Summer McIntosh and events like Taylor Swift’s concerts brought joy and a sense of hope to a weary nation. It’s these glimmers of light that I tried to capture in my illustration, weaving in Easter eggs and references for those who still cherish the print version of the newspaper.

As we look ahead to 2025, the anticipation is palpable. Will Canada face a federal election? How will Trump’s second term unfold?

While the future feels uncertain, one thing is clear: resilience and creativity will be our guiding lights. Here’s to embracing the adventures and challenges that the new year will undoubtedly bring!

Wishing you all a wonderful start to 2025!

Enjoy the December 31, 2024 making-of animated editorial cartoon below. Please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, if you haven’t already. Posts come out every Friday or Saturday as I summarize the week that was in my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading now is regarded as a “note”, which is used to help compose my weekly posts and showcase the animated versions of my daily editorial cartoons.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Thursday September 19, 2024

September 19, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday September 19, 2024

Link to animated version.

Rogers’ Acquisition Will Cement Its Control—But What About the Fans?

Rogers Communications’ push to consolidate its control over Toronto’s sports scene has many fans questioning the implications. If this deal goes through, Rogers will control a significant chunk of the city’s sports and entertainment landscape, with wide-ranging impacts that extend far beyond the stadiums. The move raises concerns about whether the company’s priorities lie with building winning teams or simply maximizing profits.

July 12, 2022

Rogers already owns 37.5% of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), which gives it partial control over the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), and Toronto FC (MLS). However, with this acquisition, Rogers is poised to increase its stake, potentially taking more ownership or influencing decisions over these teams and the venues they play in. MLSE alone is a massive conglomerate, responsible for the Leafs, Raptors, and Toronto FC, as well as the operations of Scotiabank Arena, BMO Field, and the OVO Athletic Centre, to name just a few.

Add to that Rogers’ full ownership of the Toronto Blue Jays and their home, the Rogers Centre, and you have a near-monopoly over the city’s professional sports franchises. Rogers’ influence on both the Blue Jays and MLSE effectively grants them a stranglehold over Toronto’s biggest sports markets. This means control over ticket prices, broadcasting rights, and merchandising—further commercializing what many fans already feel is an overly corporate sports scene.

News: Rogers buys BCE’s stake in MLSE for $4.7-billion

November 27, 2013

If the deal is approved, Rogers will join the ranks of the world’s largest sports and entertainment conglomerates. Globally, it will be positioned alongside other corporate giants like Comcast (which owns NBCUniversal, the Philadelphia Flyers, and part of the Philadelphia 76ers), Liberty Media (owner of Formula 1 and the Atlanta Braves), and Madison Square Garden Sports Corp (owners of the New York Knicks and Rangers). Rogers would become one of the most powerful sports owners on the planet, with reach into all major North American sports leagues except the NFL.

May 2, 2023

But what does this mean for fans? Many already feel that ticket prices, parking fees, and concessions are becoming prohibitive. Reader comments from a Toronto Star piece on the city’s sports scene highlight the frustration: “Paid $140 for a mediocre seat at a Jay’s game… with parking and minimal food and drink purchases, we still managed to spend close to a hundred bucks.” With Rogers now poised to gain even more control, fans fear that prices will continue to rise while the on-field product stagnates.

Toronto fans, already paying top dollar to watch teams that rarely deliver championships, worry that Rogers’ acquisition will push sports further into elitist territory. As one commenter put it, “The franchises become ever more elitist cashboxes.” It’s hard to shake the feeling that Rogers sees these teams as vehicles for profit rather than sources of pride for a city that craves a championship legacy.

Analysis: Playoff failures, rising ticket prices, frustrated fans. How did we get here? An inside look at Toronto’s miserable sports scene

March 19, 2021

Rogers’ track record with the Blue Jays is far from reassuring. As one Star reader pointed out, the Blue Jays are seen as a “marketing circus” rather than a serious baseball contender. Despite having one of the top payrolls in Major League Baseball, the Jays remain a middling team, unable to capitalize on their resources and fan support. Similar concerns loom over the Raptors and Leafs, who, despite their market size and wealth, have consistently fallen short of their potential.

This acquisition cements Rogers as one of the most powerful forces in sports. The question now is whether this dominance will be used to deliver championships or simply to maximize profits. Toronto fans, who have been let down time and time again, have every reason to be cynical. Until the focus shifts from corporate gain to winning on the field, the city’s sports scene will remain a frustrating landscape of high costs and low returns. For a city that deserves better, this acquisition feels like more of the same. (AI)

Saturday July 22, 2023

July 22, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday July 22, 2023

“Justieheimre”: A Summer Showdown of Political Blockbusters!

In this mesmerizing summer of Canadian leadership unfolding on the big screen, “Barbenheimer” brings together a collision of contrasting styles that mirrors the nation’s political landscape. The moviegoers, draped in pink and stoic enthusiasts alike, have found themselves captivated by the drama playing out before them.

September 1, 2018

Justin Trudeau’s portrayal of “Barbie” as Canada’s Prime Minister embodies the sunny and inclusive facade that marked his entrance into politics. His charm, good looks, and progressive policies won over the hearts of voters, promising a bright and diverse future for the nation. But as with any fairytale, challenges arose. Opposition to his policies revealed the cracks in his inclusive agenda, turning the once-bright political honeymoon into a stormy reality.

September 13, 2022

Opposing “Barbie,” Pierre Poilievre stepped into the shoes of “Poliheimre” as the Leader of the Opposition. His style, akin to Oppenheimer’s role in creating the atomic bomb, was relentless and divisive. Characterized by attack politics, his strategy seemed to be about tearing down rather than building up. This approach, coupled with a disconnect from the modern world, further added to the political spectacle.

May 27, 2023

In the midst of this clash, Jagmeet Singh portrayed “Indiana Singh: Dial of Destiny.” Attempting to play a role similar to Indiana Jones, he propped up the Liberal government in a de facto coalition but struggled to gain the blockbuster status needed to reshape the political landscape.

The film showcases the significance of leadership styles in shaping the nation’s future. Each leader presents their strengths and weaknesses, leaving the audience to wonder who will leave a lasting impact on Canada’s political scene. Will it be “Justie” with his progressive ideals and hope for a better future, “Poliheimre” with his attack politics and divisive strategies, or will “Indiana Singh: Dial of Destiny” emerge as an unexpected hero?

August 2, 2019

As the audience munches on popcorn and shares political memes, they witness this captivating summer of Canadian leadership, waiting to see how the narrative unfolds. The fate of the nation’s political landscape lies in the hands of these leaders, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

In this blockbuster summer spectacle, Canada finds itself at a crucial crossroads. The collision of these starkly contrasting leaders echoes the clash of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” on the silver screen. As the credits roll and the drama continues to unfold, the nation holds its breath, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this gripping political saga. (AI)

Wednesday March 22, 2023

March 22, 2023 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 22, 2023

Fingerprints and a mugshot: What happens if Trump is arrested

December 21, 2022

Donald Trump is hunkering down in Florida ahead of his widely anticipated arrest this week on charges stemming from an investigation into a $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels in 2016.

He would be the first US president to face criminal charges.

In 2016, adult film star Stormy Daniels contacted media outlets offering to sell her account of what she said was an adulterous affair she had with Donald Trump in 2006.

Mr Trump’s team got wind of this, and his lawyer Michael Cohen paid $130,000 to Ms Daniels to keep quiet.

This is not illegal. However, when Mr Trump reimbursed Mr Cohen, the record for the payment says it was for legal fees. Prosecutors say this amounts to Mr Trump falsifying business records, which is a misdemeanour – a criminal offence – in New York.

Prosecutors could also potentially allege that this breaks election law, because his attempt to hide his payments to Ms Daniels was motivated by not wanting voters to know he had an affair with her. Covering up a crime by falsifying records would be a felony, which is a more serious charge.

September 24, 2022

Even advocates for prosecution acknowledge that either way, this is by no means a clear-cut case. There is little precedent for such a prosecution, and past attempts to charge politicians with crossing the line between campaign finance and personal spending have ended in failure.

“It’s going to be tough,” says Catherine Christian, a former financial prosecutor for the New York City district attorney.

The decision on whether to file charges rests with New York City District Attorney Alvin Bragg. He set up the grand jury to investigate whether there was enough evidence to pursue a prosecution, and he is the only one who knows if – or when – an indictment will be announced.

Last week, Mr Trump’s lawyers said that the former president was offered a chance to appear before the grand jury, which is considered a sign that the investigation is close to finishing.

The lawyers have downplayed suggestions that they or Mr Trump have any advance notice of an impending indictment, saying his comments about it being Tuesday were based on media reports.

However, there are other signs that the grand jury is wrapping up.

January 6, 2022

Both Michael Cohen and his former legal adviser Robert Costello have given testimony in recent days.

Mr Costello was put forward by Mr Trump’s defence team on Monday in an attempt to discredit Cohen’s testimony.

If Mr Bragg decides to move ahead with charges, he will first inform Mr Trump and his lawyers, setting off negotiations over how and when the former president will appear in New York City for his formal arrest and first hearing in court.

As part of those negotiations with prosecutors, the court may also agree to grant him a private entrance to the court, instead of the more typical “perp walk” in front of the assembled media.

Once inside, however, Mr Trump will be fingerprinted and have his mug shot taken like all defendants in criminal cases. He will also be read his “Miranda” rights, reminding him of his constitutionally-protected right to a lawyer and to decline to talk to police.

October 12, 2016

Defendants charged with a felony are typically handcuffed temporarily, although Mr Trump’s lawyers will try to avoid that for their client. Throughout the booking process, he will be accompanied by Secret Service agents.

Mr Trump would then wait in a holding area or cell until his appearance before a judge. The arraignment – the moment where a defendant enters their plea before a judge – is open to the public.

Once the case is booked and a judge is selected, other details will fall into place, such as the timing of the trial and possible travel restrictions and bail requirements for the defendant.

A conviction on a misdemeanour would result in a fine. If Mr Trump were convicted on the felony charge, he would face a maximum sentence of four years in prison, although some legal experts predict a fine is more probable, and that any time behind bars is highly unlikely. (BBC)

Wednesday December 8, 2021

December 8, 2021 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday December 8, 2021

Justin Bieber performs in Saudi Arabia despite calls for boycott over human rights

August 10, 2018

Canadian pop star Justin Bieber performed to a packed crowd in the Red Sea city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, singing some of his most popular hits. The Sunday night concert took place even as human rights campaigners and activists called on Bieber to cancel his performance to protest the kingdom’s arrests and crackdown on critics.

Bieber’s model wife, Hailey Baldwin Bieber, posted a supportive video on Instagram of him on stage, with the words: “Go Baby.” Other videos on social media showed Bieber on stage solo, wearing a co-ordinated red outfit. Pop and R&B singer Jason Derulo performed before Bieber with backup female dancers in sweatpants and baggy tops.

August 8, 2018

Only a few years ago, this would have been an unthinkable scene in Saudi Arabia, where ultraconservative norms prevailed. Concerts were banned and unmarried men and women were segregated in public spaces. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is behind the sweeping changes as he works to modernize society, attract foreign investment and create jobs for youth.

Human Rights Watch and others, however, have called on celebrities to boycott the kingdom, saying such events are aimed at diverting attention and deflecting scrutiny from Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.

August 2, 2017

Bieber was the biggest name performer to take the stage as part of Saudi Arabia’s Grand Prix, which saw Lewis Hamilton win ahead of the last race of the Formula One season.

Bieber has not commented on the public pressure surrounding his performance and calls for him to cancel the show. Weeks before his show in Saudi Arabia, the fiancee of slain Saudi critic Jamal Khashoggi joined a chorus of voices urging him not to perform at the kingdom’s F1 race.

In an open letter published by The Washington Post, Hatice Cengiz had urged the megastar to cancel his performance to “send a powerful message to the world that your name and talent will not be used to restore the reputation of a regime that kills its critics.” She noted that the decision to host the F1 race and invite a star like Bieber “comes directly” from the crown prince.

November 13, 2012

Bieber’s concert in Saudi Arabia comes shortly before he opens a world tour next year. The tour is being promoted by Live Nation, the company that owns Ticketmaster. Saudi Arabia’s state-owned sovereign wealth fund — steered by Prince Mohammed — is among the largest institutional holders in Live Nation, with a stake worth some $1.4 billion US. (CBC)

Meanwhile, Tim Hortons has teamed up with pop superstar Justin Bieber to launch three new Timbit flavours — called Timbiebs — along with co-branded merchandise. (Global)