Fiona Forbes is a dynamic TV powerhouse with over 20 years’ experience both in front of the camera as a host and behind the scenes as a producer. She is known for her vibrant presence and sharp interview style. Over the course of her career, she has chatted with everyone from A-listers to Prime Ministers, rock stars to astrophysicists, and everyone in between, earning numerous awards and nominations for her work in the film and television industry. She holds a degree in History from the University of British Columbia and trained in journalism at the British Columbia Institute of Technology, where her career pivot from aspiring lawyer to on-air talent began unexpectedly through a dare to audition for a TV show.
Fiona became a household name as the host and producer of the acclaimed talk shows The Rush (formerly Urban Rush) and Breakfast Television, where her ability to connect with guests and audiences made her a standout. She continues to produce meaningful content, champion charitable causes, and bring her signature wit to every project she touches. Fiona currently works with Coldwater Communications as a media training expert and lives in her hometown of Vancouver with her eternally smiling dog, Chewbacca.
What is your channel called and what is it about?
My channel is simply my name, @fionaforbes…it’s a behind-the-scenes look at my career as a TV host, producer, actor, and media training expert. When I’m not talking about work, which is truly my passion, I love to promote the things I love, especially anything Canadian and local – whether it be fashion, food, beauty or entertainment. And of course, far too many photos and videos of my dog.
When did you start it? What motivated you at the beginning?
I originally started my channel when I was hosting my former talk show, The Rush. When that show ended about ten years ago, I kept up the behind-the-scenes look at my career and decided to continue showcasing the brands, people and places I love.
Who were you inspired by? Any influences?
I’m always inspired by other women, whether it’s in the world of film and television or on social media, and I love how supportive both communities are here in Vancouver.
Acclaimed acting coach and Hollywood guru Larry Moss once told me I have a distinctive energy and described me as having “chutzpah that reminds him of Lucille Ball.” Her comedic timing has always been one of my biggest inspirations, so I take that compliment in the highest regard.
How would you describe your audience?
My audience is curious and always looking for something new to try, whether it’s the latest hotspot to grab a bite or the latest beauty or fashion trends. A lot of my followers know me from my TV work, so I also share behind-the-scenes moments when I’m on set.
What is your creative process? Do you have people who work with you?
It’s just me! Sometimes I have a little help behind the camera, but for the most part, it’s a one-woman show, so to speak. As far as my creative process goes, because of my background in broadcasting, I’ve learned it’s all about being prepped, doing your research, and trusting my instincts to reflect what I’m curious about in any subject I may be covering.
I definitely do brand partnerships to monetize content, and I love the creative side of bringing those ideas to life. That said, my social media and my work have always been intertwined, because creating content is what I do, and it’s often part of my TV roles as well.
I’m currently freelance, so I wear a few different hats. One of my IRL roles is as a Media Training Expert with Coldwater Communications, where I help clients show up confidently on camera, stay on message, and handle interviews with ease. I work with everyone from CEOs and entrepreneurs to on-air talent and, yes, even other creators!
Through Coldwater, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work with Dragon Den’s Arlene Dickinson on her podcast Arlene Is Alone, which has been amazing to be part of behind the scenes. I’m also a Casting Coordinator for Season 2 of The Assembly (produced by Small Army Entertainment for CBC), coming this fall, and I’m so honoured to play a small part in this incredibly poignant show!
What is your favourite piece of content you have created?
In October 2021, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and in October 2022, I got to share that I was cancer-free. That will always be my most important and favourite post of my life. No clicks, views, or likes mattered on that one. It was just so freeing, and I feel very, very grateful.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
“Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life,” as the saying goes, and I feel very lucky to have found that very early on!
Throughout my entire career, I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many incredible people, and that is truly one of the best parts.
The worst part of being freelance is that it can be feast or famine, but the freedom is worth the trade-off.
What are your future plans for your channel?
My channel changes and evolves with who I am, where I’m at at that place and time…so who knows? The world is my oyster!
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another Canadian content creator that you love?
I would like to pay it forward to my friends Karen Khunkhun and Jen Venier, who have started an incredible sustainable luxury consignment business called Kajé Living.
