Members of Canada’s treasured rock band The Tragically Hip and iconic quiz show host Alex Trebek were among 44 members appointed to the Order of Canada on Friday.
Gov. Gen. Julie Payette presided over the ceremony which saw Hip members Rob Baker, Johnny Fay, Paul Langlois and Gord Sinclair, along Trebek, host of Jeopardy!, receive the country’s highest honour, which recognizes outstanding achievement and service to Canada.
READ MORE: Gord Downie, Tragically Hip frontman, receives Order of Canada
“The Tragically Hip has been one of Canada’s most beloved rock bands for over 30 years,” the office of governor general said in a statement. “From hockey to history, the band’s lyrical references to Canadian topics created a sense of what it’s like to love—and live in—this country. The band’s place in the heart of our music scene is reflected in its numerous accolades and its legions of devoted fans.”
The ceremony was the first major public appearance by The Hip since the passing of frontman Gord Downie on Oct. 17 following his battle with cancer.
“The Tragically Hip also resonates with audiences for its generous support for many social and environmental causes,” the office of governor general said.
WATCH: Tragically Hip lead singer Gord Downie receives the Order of Canada.
In June, former governor general David Johnston announced all five band members would receive the honour with Downie receiving his insignia shortly after Johnston’s announcement.
Downie was appointed a member of the Order of Canada “in recognition of outstanding Indigenous leadership.”
READ MORE: Tragically Hip’s Gord Downie remembered for ‘gold standard’ of Canadian music
“Gord Downie is considered one of Canada’s most beloved artists,” Johnston said at the time. “He is devoted to promoting dialogue about residential schools and working towards reconciliation.”
Trebek, who has hosted over 7,000 episodes of the hit television quiz show, was honoured Friday for instilling “a love of learning in millions of people” and for his humanitarian work.
WATCH: Alex Trebek appointed to the Order of Canada
“Off-camera, he is a champion of geographic literacy in the United States and Canada through his work with their geographic societies,” the office of the governor general said. “Generous with his time and support, he is committed to multiple educational, environmental and humanitarian causes, notably as an ambassador for World Vision.”
Trebek is the honorary president of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society.
Nearly 7,000 people from all sectors of society have received the Order of Canada.
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