Michael MacMillan is co-founder and CEO of international producer, distributor and channel operator, Blue Ant Media. Launched in 2011, the media company owns and operates numerous production companies in North America and Asia-Pacific, creating content for broadcasters and streaming platforms across multiple genres. Blue Ant Media also operates linear and free streaming channels around the world and international distribution company, Blue Ant International.

MacMillan co-founded Atlantis Films Limited in 1978. In its early years, Atlantis was primarily a film and television production house, winning an Oscar in 1984 for its short film Boys and Girls and an Emmy in 1992 for Lost in the Barrens.

In 1993, Atlantis became a broadcaster with the launch of its first network, Life Network.

In 1998, Atlantis acquired Alliance Communications in a reverse takeover and the company became Alliance Atlantis Communications. Under Michael’s continued leadership as Chairman and CEO, the company operated 13 Canadian television networks including HGTV Canada, Showcase Television, History Television and Food Network. The company also distributed and produced movies and television programs including the hit series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. In 2007, MacMillan retired from Alliance Atlantis after selling the company to Canwest Communications and Goldman Sachs.

In 2007, Michael co-founded Samara Canada, a charity dedicated to reconnecting citizens to politics. Samara conducts original research and ongoing education and engagement programming such as “Democracy Talks” and the “Everyday Political Citizen” projects. Michael is the Chair of Samara.

Michael is co-founder and co-owner of Closson Chase Vineyards and Winery in Prince Edward County, Ontario.

A member of the Order of Canada, Michael has volunteered with numerous community and industry organizations and is currently involved with Open Roof Films, Human Rights Watch, Civix and the Community Food Centres Canada, amongst other organizations. He is a Senior Fellow at Massey College and co-author of the book Tragedy in the Commons.

Speaking on: Media Leaders 2022: future forward