Juliette Powell: A Tribute to a Charismatic Pioneer

Juliette Powell: A Tribute to a Charismatic Pioneer

Juliette Powell, a former host of MuchMusic’s live dance party Electric Circus and commentator on the societal risks of advanced technology, has died at 54. According to her co-author Art Kleiner, Powell was found dead at home on June 3 due to acute bacterial meningitis.

A Lasting Impression

Powell’s charisma and intelligence left a lasting impression on those who knew her. Kleiner remarked, "She was obviously brilliant. She had a charismatic personality that commanded attention wherever she went."

Early Life and Achievements

  • Birthplace: Born in New York City to a French-Canadian mother.
  • Relocation: Moved to Montreal as a child.
  • Beauty Pageants: Entered local beauty pageants to challenge racial biases in the industry.
    • Won second place in the Miss Montreal Pageant.
    • Became the first Black woman to win Miss Canada in 1989.

This recognition opened doors for Powell in television. She joined Montreal music video channel MusiquePlus as a video jockey and hosted its weekly dance show Bouge de la!.

Career Highlights

In 1992, Moses Znaimer, founder of MusiquePlus, recalled being impressed by her sass and smarts. Powell continued her hosting duties while studying finance and business at McGill University. She later moved to Toronto, where she took over hosting duties for Electric Circus from Monica Deol.

Tony Young reflected on the transition, noting that both women were well-suited for their roles behind the camera. He acknowledged the challenge of filling Deol’s shoes, stating, "You have to be warm; you have to give of yourself." Kiwanuka explained during an interview, “She came into there [the studio] and handled it famously.”

Conclusion

Juliette Powell’s legacy as a trailblazer in the media landscape and her impact on the representation of Black women in the industry will be remembered fondly by many. Her brilliance and charisma will be missed.

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