It is with deep sadness that Manitoba Film & Music (MFM) has learned of the passing of Carole Vivier.

Carole began working at MFM in 1985 and served as the agency’s CEO & film commissioner for 26 years (1993-2019). She was a passionate champion of Manitoba’s film and music sectors, and her contributions are truly immeasurable.

When Carole took the helm at MFM she was determined to make the province a film and music hub. She lobbied the provincial government and eventually pioneered the first film tax credit in Western Canada. Always looking ahead, Carole also had the foresight to offer additional incentives including a frequent filming bonus to attract repeat clients to Manitoba.

Thanks in large part to Carole’s tenacity and innovative spirit, film production in the province grew from $12 million in the early 90s to over $269 million in 2019. Under her leadership, the province attracted high-profile productions including Channel Zero, Heaven is for Real, A Dog's Purpose, Shall We Dance, Aloft and Capote to shoot in Manitoba and co-produce with local companies. Carole was instrumental in supporting the careers of artists including Guy Maddin, Norma Bailey, Madison Thomas and other cultural talent.

In music, Carole’s impact was also deeply felt. During her leadership, MFM supported the careers of major artists including Royal Canoe, Begonia, The Lytics, Crash Test Dummies, Chantal Kreviazuk and many others. She also helped propel artists onto the world stage by maintaining a presence at music festivals and events around the world including SXSW, Reeperbahn, NXNE and others. Her love for Manitoba musicians was palpable – she was forever raving about the latest album or singing along to her favourite Manitoba playlists.

In addition to her work at MFM, Carole served on the board of directors at the National Screen Institute, the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg, the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television, Canadian Film Centre Feature Film Advisory Committee, Burton Cummings Theatre Performing Arts Group, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and Film Training Manitoba, among others. She was also instrumental in bringing the JUNOS to Winnipeg in 2005 and was co-chair of the 2014 Winnipeg Juno host committee.

In 2012, Carole was a recipient of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, awarded to Canadians who have made significant contributions to their community and country at large. In 2014, she was a recipient of the Order of Manitoba and in 2024, received the Order of Canada.

Carole was a huge supporter of education and was instrumental in the creation of RRC Polytech’s production and digital media programs. In 2024, Carole helped to establish the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment & Media Arts – a training facility for the creative industries at RRC Polytech. Upon Carole’s retirement, a scholarship was established in her name that is presented to a graduating female or non-binary student of Sisler High School’s Interactive Digital Media program.

Carole was an exceptional leader and changemaker because she led with her heart. Her ability to connect with people over photos of grandkids, Morden’s Chocolates, and genuine laughter was fundamental to her success. She moved mountains because people trusted and respected her. She was a force of nature whose passion for elevating Manitoba’s artists and creators was undeniable.

Thank you, Carole, for your indelible gifts. Your legacy has touched countless lives and shaped the music and film industries in our province. You will be so deeply missed.