Linda Schuyler

Linda Schuyler

Linda Schuyler, Canada

Linda Schuyler, who is a graduate of the University of Toronto and began her career as a teacher, is best known for co-creating and executive producing the multi-award winning Degrassi television franchise, comprised of The Kids of Degrassi Street, Degrassi Junior High, Degrassi High, School's Out, Degrassi Talks and Degrassi: The Next Generation, now known simply as Degrassi. This franchise has won 20 Gemini Awards, two International Emmys, two Prix Jeunesses, two Teen Choice Awards, the Critics' Choice Award and countless other international honours. The Degrassi series has from its inception portrayed teen life in a diversified and inclusive context with many storylines that challenged and educated its audience around issues of sexual diversity and identity, and tackled such difficult issues as domestic violence, teen pregnancy, pedophilia, adoption, religion, divorce, bullying, drug use, suicide, sexual assault, abortion, and mental health. Linda has received numerous personal recognitions for her accomplishments, including the Academy Achievement Award at 2010's Gemini Awards, the 2006 CTV International Achievement Award, and in 1994, in recognition of her contribution to Canadian television programming, Schuyler was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada.