Dave Merheje at the 2019 Juno Gala Dinner and Awards at the London Convention Centre, March 16, 2019. (Photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)Dave Merheje at the 2019 Juno Gala Dinner and Awards at the London Convention Centre, March 16, 2019. (Photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)
Windsor

Windsor native wins Juno Award

Windsor born Dave Merheje won big at the 2019 Juno Awards.

Merheje took home the trophy for Comedy Album of the Year for "Good Friend Bad Grammar." Merheje accepted the award during the Juno Gala Dinner and Awards on Saturday night in London.

“Good Friend Bad Grammar” was filmed over two shows at The Drake Underground, in Toronto in May 2016.

Merheje told Blackburn News that he's still shocked by the win.

"I feel very grateful," he said. "I'm still going through the motions. It's still surprising. I'm still going through all those. I think I'll do that for a few days."

Merheje was up against four other nominees including Canadian comedy veteran Debra DiGiovanni. While accepting the award he recognized his fellow nominees.

"I want to give it up for all the people that were on there. Comedy just got back into this, we should support Canadian comedy," he told the crowd.

This is the second year in a row that an award for comedy album of the year was handed out. Prior to that the Juno's had not recognized a comedy album since 1984. Merheje said he's excited that the category is back in the mix.

"We produce so many dope Canadians that move to America or move somewhere else," Merheje said. "By having this award fans and audience members can go 'oh shoot, let me check it out, they do this? It's a regular thing?'"

While accepting the award, Merheje took time to thank his father who was in attendance. Much of Merheje's comedy act focuses around his family and his Middle Eastern upbringing in Windsor, a city he often proclaims his love for. Merheje lived in Windsor until his mid-20's when he moved to Toronto to further pursue his standup career.

What's next for the 38-year-old now that he has one of Canada's most prestigious honours under his belt? Television.

"I'm part of a cast for a show called Ramy. It's on Hulu. We'll be streaming all the episodes on April 19," Merheje said.

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