ENTERTAINMENT
Faze Online
Paula Brancati's
Gemini Extravaganza
The nominated star of Degrassi does
the
2009 Gemini Awards in style
Hey everyone, Paula Brancati here!
On Tuesday, October 20th, I had the honour of attending the Gemini Awards, held at The Sound Academy in Toronto. I was completely thrilled not only to be nominated for my work in the Degrassi: The Next Generation episode “Fight the Power” (Jane’s Football team debut in Season 8!), but I also had the opportunity to present a few awards. Here, my friends, are some highlights from the evening:
My cast mates can attest for the fact that I am always up for
a snack from Craft Service! This Nutella sandwich was perfect
to munch on as I was getting ready.
I was filming some scenes for an exciting new episode of Degrassi
the morning of the Gemini Awards, so our fabulous crew sped
through my shots as quickly as possible to get me to the
awards on time! The lovely Etheline (hair dresser extraordinaire)
entertained me with her dry wit as she worked her magic on my hair.
Putting in one final pin—that woman is a magician.
This beautiful dress was graciously provided by BCBG
(Yonge and Bloor location, Toronto). I was looking for
something unique, classy, but with a dash of sexy
at the same time. The cool and helpful staff helped me
deliberate, choose accessories and finally land on this
one as the winner!
My lovely Degrassi cast mates, Adamo Ruggiero and
Lauren Collins, and myself strike a pose. (Stacey Farber,
not pictured, was also nominated for her amazing
performance in Degrassi Goes Hollywood!)
My agent Shari Quallenberg and I with the talented
Patty Sullivan, CBC Kids Host and Gemini nominee.
After pre-show mingling and some nervous laughter backstage,
Adamo and I finally tookthe stage and got the ball rolling with
the first few awards!
(Photo courtesy ofACCT/Jag Gundu Photography)
A little blurry, but such an exciting moment to share!
Director Eleanore Lindo, who I had the privilege
to work
with in “Fight the Power,” won a Gemini Award for her fantastic
work in the episode. Producer and long time cast member
Stefan Brogren (aka Mr. Simpson) accepts on her behalf.
Adamo and I waiting to present an award.
On my way home after a great night and ready to film again in the morning.
It was such an honour to be nominated; I was so excited for Michael Seater, who won the Gemini for his leading role in the family channel show, Life With Derek. The energy pre- and post-ceremony was electric and it was so great to be surrounded by actors, directors and producers who I have been lucky enough to work with over the years. I truly love working on Degrassi, being able to play such a strong female character and speak to viewers through the tough and gritty stories we tell every episode. I am proud to be a part of the Degrassi legacy, and my night at the Gemini’s was icing on the cake!
---Paula Brancati
THANKS PAULA!!! WE LOVE YOU
