Drake is set to open up about his time on Degrassi: The Next Generation in a brand-new documentary premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The upcoming documentary, Degrassi: Whatever It Takes, directed by Lisa Rideout, will explore the iconic Canadian teen drama that redefined teen TV. According to TIFF’s official website, the film features in-depth interviews with creators, superfans, and stars like Aubrey “Drake” Graham.
Drake played Jimmy Brooks, a wealthy high school basketball star whose life changes after a school shooting leaves him paralyzed. He was a series regular from 2001 to 2008, staying on the show for seven seasons. However, controversy surrounded Drake’s role, with reports claiming he threatened to leave the show after his character was confined to a wheelchair. In a 2021 interview with the A.V. Club, writers and cast members alleged Drake’s lawyer sent a letter demanding changes to his character’s storyline. Ultimately, after discussions with the writers, he remained on the show for two more seasons before transitioning to his music career.
Over the years, Drake has reflected on his Degrassi days, sharing throwback photos with castmates and even naming his hit song with 21 Savage, “Jimmy Cooks,” after his character. However, he has yet to address the rumors surrounding his departure from the show and his feelings about Jimmy Brooks’ storyline.
We are all eager to see if he’ll finally set the record straight in Degrassi: Whatever It Takes. The documentary will premiere at TIFF, running from September 4-14, 2023.
