Video Roundup: The Best Moments of 2013 and Christmas Special

New Year's is often a chance for us to be a bit more introspective and reflective on the year that has past and look forward to the infinite possibilities the new year will bring. If you have been caught in the whirlwind madness of the holidays and perhaps neglected our national boyfriend, here is a chance for you to catch up and to walk through a year of memories.

Let us begin with some highlights from the Christmas special. Kevin Smith has delighted fans for a long time by inviting them over for an engaging evening. What happens when Kevin is in your home as a guest for the holidays?

The Christmas special also featured some wonderful musical acts that range from our national pride, Chris Hadfield, to respected artists within the industry. You can visit each performance on George's youtube page or by clicking on the link on the playlist in the next video. But first, we have Run DMC's Christmas in Hollis performed by a variety of hip hop stars.

Next up is a clever and witty trailer for Boxing Day with many notable stars.

Then there's the secret fantasy of a few people out there. What would happen if we not only had one George, but three? Here are all three versions of our national boyfriend welcoming us into the new year and having some rather interesting conversations.

Now we get to the point where we look back upon the year with our graceful host and the moments we have shared. Shall we begin with taking a look back at what happened in the world of science?

George is often filled with important messages. Here is what he had to say.



One of the most delightful aspects of live television and one where the host/interviewer doesn't prompt you with questions beforehand is the opportunity for surprises to occur on the show. Here is a look back on some of those moments.

It can also take us into much more intimate settings where we see the humanity behind the celebrity. Here are the top confessions of the year.

But at the end of the day, audiences alike tune in for some fun.

That concludes our video roundup for 2013. May your new year bring you peace, love, harmony, good health, and success.  Don't forget to tune into George's radio show as well as he brings us the second half of the Hundo and counts down the top 100 songs of the year.

Politicos. A Photog. Directors & a Dude in a Dress.

Are YOU ready for some FOOTBALL? NO, you say? Me either. Couldn't care less, though pretty psyched to go grab some NON sports bar dinner with friends on Superbowl Sunday. We figure any place that doesn't serve wings and doesn't have a ginormous TV will be golden!

If you're looking to multitask, maybe you'll want to stay in, listen to the radio and watch the big game at the same time? For keeners like yourself, tune into The Strombo Show on CBC Radio 2 from 8-Midnight for some great tunes. You can even pick your own time zone.

Monday, February 8th

Jamie Farr

Confession time! I have never watched M.A.S.H.! When I say I have never watched it, I'm dead serious. Not one episode. Not sure if that makes me a pop culture pariah? What I do know about it is that Jamie Farr's character, Klinger was an essential part of the formula that made that series work so incredibly well. I also do know that he is recognized for his philanthropy. I just hope he and David Frum don't wear the same outfit. That would be awkward!




David Frum

A frequent guest of The Hour, Frum is a well regarded and prolific political author with a unique view developed during his time as a bona fide Washington insider. Son of CBC legend Barbara Frum, David is never afraid to speak his mind.

Tuesday, February 9th

Lee Daniels

Could it be Oscar time for Best Director nominee Lee Daniels? Precious, his latest feature film has generated tremendous critical acclaim and garnered many accolades for Daniels and his cast. Wonder what it's like to team up with Oprah? And also --what WAS Mariah Carey drinking the night she made her loopy acceptance speech with Daniels at her side?

Louie Palu

Based in Afghanistan, Palu is a photojournalist extraordinaire. His images of war are full of honesty and impact. When you check a man's website and see that one of his home bases is self described as 'Hell' -- you know he's seen more horror than one can imagine and will have some gripping stories to tell.

Wednesday, February 10th

Anita Dunn

Anita Dunn is the ultimate political insider and served in the Obama administration as the White House Communications Director. Prior to that appointment, she was a key strategist and advisor to Obama in the years prior to his groundbreaking run for the Presidency. Her perspective on how he's faring now that the honeymoon phase is over should be interesting!

Thursday, February 11th

Wendel Clark

One of the most recognizable and beloved NHL players ever, former Toronto Maple Leafs captain Wendel Clark had a long and prolific career. Down to earth and humourous, Clark is a popular speaker at events throughout Canada. He's penned a book - "Wendel. My Life in Hockey".

Friday February 12th

Saorise Ronan - The Lovely Bones

Kevin Smith - Director, Author and one Sweaty Mofo.

Rosanne Cash - More than her Father's Daughter

If you're wondering what happens during the Olympics, The Hour will be taking a break from taping. Chill out, check out interviews you may have missed online and watch for the return of new episodes after the Games. If you want to really get into the experience, why not light something up and run around your neighbourhood? Perhaps you can wrap yourself in Saran and pretend to luge down your icy road? I won't judge.

What's up? What's goin' on?

From 24Th to the 28Th

The Hour will feature the following guests and more

Monday

Canadian Mixed Martial Arts fighter Georges St-Pierre battles it out with Ranter extraordinaire Rick Mercer. Rick thought it was just an interview to promote his new book... and he would be right. I don't think there will be any conflict between the two guests.

Tuesday

The Emmy Award winning, radical and scintillating Phil Donahue

Wednesday

Foo Fighters have something to say

as does Dr Jane Goodall and she says"We have the choice to use the gift of our lives to make the world a better place"

Thursday

Your favourite, Kevin Smith writer, actor, director, popular speaker and smodcaster.

You may have heard on The Hour that George will be hosting the Geminis this year but did you know he is also an Executive Producer for the show?

Book it!

No this is not about what I'm reading, well maybe it is.... If you read the page this link brings you to, you can make ticket requests for a taping of The Hour and see the offers for special pre-tapes on off hours.
Guests for the pre tapes include Jeff Goldblum, Lisa Ray, MIA, Jane Goodall, Eric Bana and our favourite
Kevin Smith.

We'll tell you more about who will be on and what to expect in the new season coming soon.