Nerene Virgin, a Canadian journalist, actress, educator, author, and television host, who gained prominence for her notable role in the children’s television series Today’s Special, has sadly passed away at the age of 78. The news of her death has left her fans and colleagues in shock and mourning.
Born on December 27, 1946, in Hamilton, Canada, Nerene Virgin had a diverse and successful career in various fields. She initially began her career as a teacher with the Toronto Board of Education before venturing into children’s programming at TV Ontario, where she portrayed the beloved character “Jodie” on the acclaimed series Today’s Special. Her portrayal of Jodie gained recognition and love from audiences all over.
Beyond her time on Today’s Special, Virgin had recurring roles on various TV programs such as The Littlest Hobo, Night Heat, and Ramona. She also made a mark in the film industry with roles in productions such as Gotti, The Undergrads, Murder in Space, and Right of the People. Her talent and versatility shone through in each of her performances.
In addition to her acting career, Nerene Virgin had a successful stint as a journalist and newsreader. She worked as a weather and community reporter for CBOT in Ottawa and hosted various shows at CFTO in Toronto, including Eye on Toronto and Showbuz. She also participated in CTV’s Miracle Network Telethon for the Hospital for Sick Children.
In 1996, Virgin became the host of the national current affairs show Coast to Coast for CBC Newsworld in Calgary. She later anchored the national weekend newscast Saturday Report for CBC Television in Toronto. Her career took her to Newsworld International until its transition to Current TV in 2005, where she continued to make her mark as a respected news anchor.
Aside from her successful career, Nerene Virgin was also involved in politics. In 2007, she sought political office in the federal riding of Hamilton Mountain and later decided to pursue political office in Hamilton East—Stoney Creek. Her decision to run for office stirred some discontent among local Liberal party members, but she remained optimistic about connecting with grassroots support.
Outside of her professional life, Virgin was dedicated to making a difference in her community. She served on the board of directors for Phoenix Place, a second-stage home for domestic violence survivors, and was a member of the council for the College of Early Childhood Educators. She was also actively involved in Hamilton’s Committee Against Racism.
Throughout her life, Nerene Virgin received several honors and awards for her outstanding contributions. In 2012, she was recognized for her professional achievement and received the Rev. John C. Holland Award. In 2014, she was honored with an Illuminesence Award. In her mid-teens, she was crowned Miss Sepia Toronto, but unfortunately faced discrimination when she was barred from competing in the Miss Canada Pageant due to her race.
Nerene Virgin’s passing has left a void in the entertainment industry and her community. She will be remembered as a trailblazer, who led by example and left behind a legacy of creativity, courage, and compassion. Her celebration of life is scheduled for Saturday at Stewart Memorial Church in Hamilton, the same church where her great uncle, John C. Holland, served as a pastor.
The cause of Nerene Virgin’s death is currently unknown, leaving her friends, family, and fans with a sense of shock and sadness. Her passing is a great loss to the world of entertainment and journalism, but her contributions and impact will never be forgotten..
