EDMONTON — Marvel superhero star Simu Liu returns tonight for an encore performance as host of the Juno Awards.

The “Shang-Chi” actor oversees the celebration of Canadian music for the second consecutive year, this time from Edmonton, where five key Junos will be handed out including album of the year, breakthrough artist and the viewer-voted fan choice award.

The Junos broadcast airs live from Rogers Place on CBC-TV and CBC Gem.

Among the leading contenders are Avril Lavigne, Tate McRae and newcomers Preston Pablo and Rêve, who all hold two nominations going into the show.

The Weeknd is also vying for two more Junos after coming out the big winner at a pre-broadcast ceremony for the music industry on Saturday where he picked up four awards, including artist and single of the year for “Sacrifice.”

Nickelback will be inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame on the Juno broadcast before taking the stage for a roaring rock performance.

Other artists set to play the show include Jessie Reyez, Tenille Townes and Kardinal Offishall and Haviah Mighty who will lead a 50th anniversary tribute to Canadian hip-hop.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 13, 2023.

David Friend, The Canadian Press