Today’s Notable Young Professional is Entertainment Tonight Canada Producer, Reporter and Host Erin Cebula, whose career allows her to chase interesting stories, travel to exotic locals, rock red carpets, and interview the most exciting personalities in the world…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
Working as an Entertainment Producer, Reporter and Host for Entertainment Tonight Canada is the perfect gig for a variety junkie like myself. I chase interesting stories, travel to exotic locals, rock red carpets, and interview the most exciting personalities in the world. I also produce many of my own stories, which means I scout locations, hire crews and direct in the field. The job challenges me both behind and in front of the camera and I need (and LOVE) that.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I began working as an arts and entertainment reporter with Global BC in 2000 after four lonely years as a video editor. I loved putting stories, docs and music videos together, but counting frames in a dark room got to me after a while. I had a penchant for performance and wanted a career that allowed me to celebrate my inner ham, and to utilize my broadcasting training. In 2002 I moved on to host a daily entertainment & lifestyle talk show called Urban Rush, then a home renovation program called Makeover Wish on HGTV. All of these experiences prepared me for Entertainment Tonight Canada, and when the show launched in 2005 I jumped at the opportunity!
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
It sounds cliché, but interviewing people from all walks of life really is a rush. There are so many moving parts to consider when you walk into that interview room. I pride myself on knowing my stuff and making a genuine connection with my subject. When there’s good flow between interviewer and interviewee, it’s like a high. The most challenging part is when an interviewee just doesn’t want to play, and you are left scrambling to fill the dead air.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
On top of my Entertainment Tonight Canada duties, I am also producing and hosting a lifestyle pilot called Beer vs. Wine. I hope that it will be the first of many projects like it.
What does success look like to you?
To me, success is a challenge, variety and balanced cocktail – shaken not stirred!
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
My first assignment for ET Canada was a set visit to the Rockstar INXS mansion is Los Angeles. The last time I had visited LA was en route to Disneyland with my family in 1987. So, to be back in the city of angels conducting interviews with super producer Mark Burnett and one of my favourite bands was a ‘pinch me’ moment. That story aired on the very first broadcast of Entertainment Tonight Canada and I couldn’t have been prouder.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Learn at least a little bit about every aspect of your industry. I know that having a technical and writing background has saved me numerous times. Plus, I get props from the techs. And everyone in TV knows that if the crew has your back, there’s nothing you can’t do!
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I do! I have been an SPCA supporter since I was a dog walker in my teens, and I continue to participate in their fundraising campaigns today. I was raised on a hobby farm, and animals have always been a passion of mine. For the last two years, I’ve been part of the SPCA’s annual Kennel Lock-In project and I’ve raised over $10,000 for my furry friends!
What to you is notable?
Notable to me are people who understand that making television takes a team effort, and that no position is more important than the other. I strive every day to walk that talk.
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone, but I sure miss my BlackBerry when an epic shoot report needs to be typed!
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
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