To mark the 40th anniversary of the Canadian animated classic The Raccoons, creator Kevin Gillis will join the Ottawa International Animation Festival’s (OIAF) Animation Exposé for an exclusive behind-the-scenes conversation about the series.
The talk takes place at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 27, at the Babs Asper Theatre in the National Arts Centre (NAC).
Hosted by CBC Ottawa’s Omar Dabaghi-Pacheco, the Artist Talk will feature Gillis in conversation with Ottawa writer and animation historian Dan Lalande. Together, they’ll revisit the journey of The Raccoons—from its early concept and partnership with CBC, to the music, animation, and storytelling values that captured the hearts of a generation.
Originally debuting as a Christmas special in 1980, The Raccoons went on to produce three additional specials before launching as a cult-favorite series that ran from 1985 to 1991.
Amanda Misko, OIAF’s Industry and Community Programming Manager, says:
“The Raccoons holds a special place in my childhood, and forty years later, it remains a Canadian animation classic that continues to inspire new generations. Its charming portrayal of Canadian wildlife in the Evergreen Forest blends heart, humor, and timeless storytelling. We’re thrilled to celebrate this beloved series with its creator, Kevin Gillis.”
The session also offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from the mind behind the series. Gillis will reflect on the show’s enduring influence and highlight its 2023 4K restoration, as well as its continued success with audiences on platforms including YouTube, Boomerang, CRAVE, and BritBox. Following the talk, he will host a free signing session at 12:45 p.m. in the NAC’s Canal Foyer.
A writer, director, musician, and executive producer, Gillis has spearheaded numerous globally successful projects, including The Raccoons (1985–1991), RoboCop: The Series (1994), Atomic Betty (2004–2008), and Disney’s Jimmy Two-Shoes (2009–2011). His work has aired in more than 180 countries and has earned multiple nominations and awards.
Animation Exposé is a one-day OIAF event featuring Artist Talks, recruitment opportunities, an exhibitors’ fair with animation schools and studios, and live sketching sessions. Access to Artist Talks is available with an OIAF pass or through tickets purchased exclusively via Ticketmaster.
OIAF 2025 will be held September 24-28 in Ottawa. Visit animationfestival.ca for more information.
