André Provencher: NFB Remembers Canadian Film Pioneer

MONTREAL, January 3, 2026 – The Canadian film industry is mourning the loss of André Provencher, a dedicated administrator and passionate advocate for cultural outreach, who died recently. He was 77.

A Legacy of Vision and Commitment

Provencher’s leadership left an indelible mark on Canada’s audiovisual landscape.

• Provencher served as a member of the national Film Board of Canada’s (NFB) board of trustees for seven years.
• He was recognized wiht numerous accolades, including the queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal and several Gemini and CanPro awards.
• Provencher was a staunch defender of cultural importance, intellectual property, and Francophone interests.

A skilled strategist,Provencher brought invaluable expertise to the NFB,honed over a remarkable career in cultural administration. His insightful leadership and deep understanding of the evolving industry made him a trusted advisor and collaborator. What role did André Provencher play in shaping Canadian film? He was a pivotal figure, championing creative freedom for documentary professionals and celebrating Canadian talent on a global stage.

Did you know? – The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) was founded in 1939 by John Grierson, with the initial goal of creating propaganda films during WWII. It has since evolved into a major force in Canadian documentary filmmaking.

Throughout his career,Provencher received numerous awards,including the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal,an award from the Université du québec à Trois-Rivières,and the Raphaël Prize from the Séminaire de nicolet. He also earned several Gemini and CanPro awards, recognizing his notable contributions to the Canadian screen industry.

“The NFB will remain in my eyes an essential space of creative freedom for documentary professionals and craftspeople, and without a doubt the most vibrant embodiment of Canadian talent and its notable renown across the planet,” Provencher wrote in a recent note, shared by Suzanne Guèvremont, Government Film Commissioner and Chairperson of the NFB. “André was a great defender of the importance of culture in our society, of intellectual property, and of the Francophonie.I will miss the insightful and passionate conversations I had with him. André was a man of heart, generous and profoundly human. Thank you for everything, André.”

Reader question – How can individuals support the continued growth of Canadian film and documentary production? What role do audiences play in preserving cultural storytelling?

The NFB extended its deepest condolences to Provencher’s family, loved ones, and colleagues, expressing profound gratitude for his dedication and service.

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