Andrew Phung Named Celebrity Judge for the 2026 Calgary Stampede Parade Presented by Suncor

Calgary, AB (June 9, 2026) – The Calgary Stampede is thrilled to announce award-winning comedian, actor, producer and host Andrew Phung as the Celebrity Judge for the 2026 Calgary Stampede Parade presented by Suncor.

Known for his infectious energy, quick wit and deep Canadian roots, Phung will help kick off The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth by taking part in one of Calgary’s most cherished traditions on Parade Day – Friday, July 3.

“I'm a Northeast Calgary kid born and raised, and it's an absolute honour to come home and serve as celebrity judge for the Calgary Stampede Parade,” said Phung. “I remember attending the parade as a kid with my mom and grandparents, and it was always a highlight for me. Early mornings, wide eyes seeing the beautiful floats, and a belly full of syrup and pancakes.”

As Celebrity Judge, Phung will review and help judge the many floats, marching bands and equestrian entries that make up the world-famous Stampede Parade. From his position along the parade route, he will help select winners in several categories, including the coveted Celebrity Judge’s Choice Award. The role also includes engaging with parade crowds and participating in media appearances throughout the morning.

“We’ve wanted Andrew involved with the Calgary Stampede Parade for a long time and are incredibly excited we were able to make it happen this year,” said Keith Marlowe, volunteer Stampede Parade Committee Chair. “He is a tremendous ‘get’ for us - funny, authentic, proud of his Canadian roots and absolutely oozing with personality. We know parade fans are going to love him.”

Phung has become one of Canada’s most recognizable comedic performers. He is best known for his award-winning role as Kimchee on the hit CBC/Netflix series Kim’s Convenience, earning five consecutive Canadian Screen Awards for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. He is also the co-creator, executive producer and star of the CBC and Hulu comedy Run the Burbs, for which he won the 2025 Canadian Screen Award for Best Lead Performer in a Comedy Series. His recent television credits also include LOL: Last One Laughing Canada on Amazon Prime, Hate the Player on Paramount+, and hosting duties on the Flavour Network’s cooking competition series Big Burger Battle.

Phung joins a roster of past Celebrity Judges, including Rangeland Derby legend Kelly Sutherland, former Miss Universe Canada and Amazing Race Canada participant Ashley Callingbull, Heartland TV Stars Amber Marshall, Chris Potter and Shaun Johnston, and Calgary artist Devon Cole who opened for Shania Twain’s Scotiabank Saddledome show after judging last year’s parade.

Parade fans will also be treated to a special appearance by stars Yannick Bisson and Thomas Craig from CBC's hit series Murdoch Mysteries. The actors will participate in the parade aboard a Murdoch Mysteries-themed entry, celebrating the show's recent Calgary Stampede episode. Their appearance adds another uniquely Canadian element to this year's parade and celebrates the enduring popularity of one of the country's most successful television dramas.
 
The 114th Calgary Stampede Parade begins at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 3, with the prelude beginning at 7:30 a.m. Immediately following the Parade, guests can take advantage of Stampede Parade to Park presented by Suncor by going straight from the Parade to Stampede Park to receive free admission from 11 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. For more information, please visit calgarystampede.com