Shirley Cheechoo honoured to receive film award named after friend August Schellenberg
CBC
Although Shirley Cheechoo hasn't appeared on screen in over a decade, the Cree actor and filmmaker says it's an honour to be recognized for her career and contributions to the film industry.
She is the recipient of the ImagineNative Film and Media Arts Festival's 2021 August Schellenberg Award.
Named after August "Augie" Schellenberg, it is given annually to an Indigenous actor based on the longevity and impact of their career, as well as their involvement in mentorship and community work.
"I was very honoured to have actually received the award because I've worked with Augie," said Cheechoo.
"He was a very good friend of mine, so I was very honoured that I was actually getting the award under his name."
Schellenberg, who died in 2013, performed in countless theatre, film and television productions including Saving Grace, Free Willy, Black Robe, North of 60 and Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee.
The festival launched the award in 2015 in partnership with his wife Joan Karasevich Schellenberg to honour his life.
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