At the Toronto Film Festival on 11/9, Justin Trudeau and his former colleague, former Chief of Staff Katie Telford, announced the co-founding of the film studio Hope & Hard Work. Reuters reported that the company's name evokes a slogan he often used in speeches after becoming leader of the Liberal Party in 2013, and during his nearly ten years as prime minister from 2015 to 2025.

In a statement released on the same day, Trudeau and Telford announced several upcoming projects, including scripted and unscripted films and television programs. They aim to create space for entertaining content that also inspires discussion and resonates both in Canada and internationally. Several works are currently in development, including two series adapted from the novels "Closer by Sea" by fellow Canadian author Perry Chafe and "Detective Aunty" by writer Uzma Jalaluddin.

Portrait of former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau. *Photo: Hope & Hard Work*

Additionally, Hope & Hard Work is developing projects related to audio, documentaries, and reality experience programs. The company will also acquire rights to popular literary works while developing original ideas.

The two founders stated their belief in "the power of great stories to bring people closer together" in an increasingly divided world. "As a Canadian studio, we have the opportunity to infuse values including kindness, optimism, openness, and trust into every project we undertake, regardless of where the story originates or where it finds its audience," the press release quoted.

Reuters suggests that Justin Trudeau's move into entertainment indicates he is following a path similar to former US President Barack Obama. In 2018, one year after Obama's term ended, he and his wife established the production company Higher Ground Productions, signing a multi-year partnership with Netflix.

Justin Trudeau and Katie Telford, 48, (second from right) during a meeting with former President Barack Obama and his wife in June. *Photo: Instagram Katie Telford*

Justin Trudeau, 55, served as Canada's prime minister from 2015 to 2025. According to the Liberal Party, he was the second youngest prime minister in the country's history. In 1/2025, he announced his resignation. Before entering politics, he worked in various professions, including education, engineering, bungee jump instructing, and acting. In 2007, he appeared in the television series "The Great War".

Recently, he has frequently participated in community events and gained prominence for his relationship with American singer Katy Perry. The couple publicized their relationship in 10/2025 after about three months of dating rumors. Before Perry, he had an 18-year marriage to television host Sophie Gregoire, separating in 2023. They have three children: Xavier, 19, currently a singer and model; Ella-Grace, 17; and Hadrien, 12.

By Phuong Thao (according to Hollywood Reporter, Reuters)