From LA Weekly: Emmy and Golden Globe Winner Andrew Barnsley takes humor seriously

Check out the Article featuring our very own Andrew Barnsley in LA Weekly!

Some say the film, television, and comedy industry is only for dreamers.

Well, Andrew Barnsley doesn’t give a schitt.

As an Executive Producer behind the widely adored comedy series Schitt’s Creek, CEO of Project 10 Productions, and President of Toronto Film School (TFS), Barnsley knows how careers in the industry are made. “A career in this industry can be a pragmatic choice, and when passion, purpose, and hands-on training meet, that’s where the magic happens,” he says. “In addition to creating great comedy, I’m dedicated to training the next generation of talent. I want people to know that a career in film and television is possible. It’s a booming industry full of opportunity, and we need more people telling their unique-and hilarious-stories.”

Here are 3 things to know about Barnsley’s career as an Executive Producer, CEO, and film school President.

1. His comedy transcends borders

Barnsley’s production company, Project 10 Productions, is an award-winning organization based in Toronto and Los Angeles specializing in scripted comedy. He develops and creates compelling original content for the worldwide marketplace, further establishing his authority in his field. Barnsley’s resume also boasts a Primetime Emmy and a Golden Globe for the international hit Schitt’s Creek. Barnsley splits his time between TO and LA, but says he’ll take poutine over an acai bowl any day.

2.    He believes in comedy with purpose, on purpose

According to Barnsley, comedy is no laughing matter.  In his role as CEO of Project 10 Productions, his focus isn’t just on making us chuckle. He’s committed to providing opportunities for voices that can make the world a brighter place, while developing and producing unique content that resonates globally. By showcasing relevant and unconventional comedic voices, he’s leaving an enduring mark on the entertainment landscape.

Case in point: As the go-to partner for creators, broadcasters, streamers, and distributors, Project 10 boasts a stellar reputation for creating exceptional and quirky episodic television. Currently producing the The CW/CBC comedy Son Of A Critch, its portfolio includes the return of Kids In The Hall for Amazon Prime, JANN on CTV, and the Family Channel/Netflix gem My Perfect Landing.

3. He’s nurturing the next wave of talent at Toronto Film School

Outside of his producer and CEO roles, Barnsley is shaping the future of the entertainment industry through education. Under Barnsley’s leadership, TFS hosts a vibrant community of creative talent, training future filmmakers, actors, writers, and designers. With a vision firmly rooted in growth, Barnsley envisions a workforce prepared to make a global impact.

“With Canada’s screen industry seeing an estimated $14.2 billion revenue surge in 2023, TFS is a key player in shaping the future of the screen sector,” says Barnsley. “”With faculty working in the film and television industry, we are educating the next generation of creative industry professionals. We prepare students for realistic and exciting career paths from every hands-on element of the production process.”

Barnsley has sculpted a career that seamlessly integrates production and education, passion and purpose. “Leading a production company and a film school isn’t the most traditional path,” he adds. “My days are busy, but I love what I do. I get to help educate and empower future colleagues, while making people laugh. For me, it doesn’t get much better than that.”

For your daily dose of inspiration, follow Andrew Barnsley and Toronto Film School on IG.