With $1 million on the line, Halifax-based comedian Travis Lindsay will be in the spotlight as one of the contestants on this year’s edition of Canada’s Got Talent, premiering on CityTV on March 19.
It’s a chance to do something that can really help my family. – Travis Lindsay
“It’s the million-dollar season, and my main motivation was to seize the opportunity for my comedy,” says Lindsay. “It’s a chance to do something that can really help my family.”
More specifically, Lindsay’s potential windfall is to ensure his grandmother is taken care of. He says she has been his biggest supporter and the reason he has been able to pursue his comedy career.
“My grandmother basically raised me, and I just really want to make sure I can give back to her and thank her for everything she’s done in allowing me to pursue standup to begin with,” he says. “Anything left over will be probably Disney and wrestling-related.”
While comedians have made it deep into various Got Talent competitions, the big prize has been elusive. Lindsay hopes to break that cycle. When asked whether past comedians have inspired him in his Canada’s Got Talent journey, Lindsay emphasized his focus on authenticity and carving his unique comedic path. “I’ve always tried to do my own thing and not be too influenced by others, especially in comedy,” he says.
Lindsay says that his audition routine is a hybrid of established material and new content. “It’s a high-pressure situation, so you don’t want to be testing out completely new material,” he laughs.
As Lindsay progresses through the competition, he finds solace in the presence of fellow comedian Howie Mandel, one of the returning judges, alongside Lilly Singh, Kardinal Offishall and Trish Stratus.
“If anyone knows what you’re going through, it would be him,” he says. “Instead of making me more nervous when there’s a comic on the judge’s table, it actually makes you more comfortable.”
With the prospect of progressing further in the competition, Lindsay shared his thoughts on the potential impact on his career.
“If I don’t get booed or buzzed out of the building, I think I can turn it into some more work,” he says with a laugh. “And maybe even if I do get buzzed or booed, I’ll just lean into it.”
As for his plans beyond Canada’s Got Talent, Lindsay remains focused on honing his craft on stage, continuing his work as a writer on This Hour Has 22 Minutes, an upcoming comedy album following on the heels of his post-pandemic Killed at the Funeral and embracing new opportunities.
“I’m just taking it one step at a time and enjoying every moment that comes with this opportunity,” he says.
Monday: We chat with Halifax-based magician Vincenzo Ravina, who will also compete for the life-changing top prize on this year’s Canada’s Got Talent.