TORONTO – Jann Arden, the Calgary-based pop singer, has reiterated her support for her controversial social media video, in which she criticized Alberta separatists. In an interview for the upcoming CBC series “The Assembly,” she addressed the backlash she received, including “low-key death threats,” asserting that she does not regret her stance against what she describes as a “very fringe group.”
In May of this year, Arden sparked significant attention with an expletive-laden TikTok post, labeling Alberta separatists as “an embarrassment to this country.” This bold comment has led to ongoing discussions about regional identity and national unity in Canada.
Arden emphasized her commitment to advocating for Alberta's place within Canada, stating, “I believe in Alberta being much better as part of Canada, one of the best countries in the world to live in.” She acknowledged the issues the province faces but insisted that collaborative resolution is essential, remarking, “We have issues that we need to sort out, but we need to do that together.”
The show, “The Assembly,” is inspired by a French television program where prominent public figures partake in a dialogue facilitated by a group of autistic adults. During the episode, Arden is faced with a variety of questions, not only about her political viewpoints but also about her personal life, including her brother’s conviction for murder in the 1990s, her thoughts on shapeshifting into a particular animal, and her memories of being robbed while she was a young busker. These inquiries showcase a multidimensional approach to interviewing, illuminating both the public and private facets of Arden’s life and beliefs.
The episode featuring Arden is set to air on November 13, 2025, following Howie Mandel’s interview, which will premiere on November 6. Filming for the show took place during the summer in Vancouver, reflecting a modern approach to engaging audiences through heartfelt and often challenging discussions.
Arden’s willingness to confront difficult subjects and express her convictions candidly highlights the importance of dialogue in today’s polarized social climate. As she continues to face criticism and support from various quarters, her steadfastness in advocating for her beliefs marks her as a significant voice in Canadian cultural discourse.
