Top 10 Most-Watched Videos on CBC Ottawa in 2025

In 2025, CBC Ottawa showcased a variety of stories that captivated audiences, ranging from political developments to remarkable wildlife sightings. Here are the top ten most-watched videos of the year, highlighting significant events that resonated with viewers.

Political Shifts and Community Reactions

The most viewed video featured the announcement that Mark Carney, newly appointed leader of the Liberal Party, would run for a parliamentary seat in Nepean. This decision came just days before the federal election campaign began, as the party revoked the nomination of incumbent MP Chandra Arya. Carney went on to win the seat, contributing to a minority Liberal government. Arya, who had represented the area since 2015, has since transitioned to advocacy work within the Hindu community. The video, capturing local reactions, received significant attention on March 22, with a runtime of 39 seconds.

Another notable event was a dramatic incident involving a parking garage collapse in downtown Ottawa on February 26. A 911 call alerted authorities to damaged columns, leading to the partial collapse of the structure. Fortunately, no injuries occurred, but approximately 50 vehicles were stranded inside for nearly a month, causing considerable disruption.

Community Challenges and Environmental Wonders

In a troubling story, an Ottawa couple reported losing over $381,000 after hiring contractor Giuseppe “Joey” Peloso to renovate their kitchen. Following the completion of the project, plumbing issues led to significant flooding in their home, prompting them to seek legal recourse. The couple was not alone in their grievances, as Peloso faces multiple lawsuits from dissatisfied clients and other stakeholders.

On a lighter note, wildlife enthusiasts were thrilled by the sighting of a rare leucistic beaver near Perth, Ontario. This unique creature, known for its lack of pigmentation, was captured on video by local photographers in early November. According to experts, leucistic beavers are extremely rare, with the Canadian Museum of Nature housing a pelt that dates back over a century.

In a heartwarming rescue, police in Smiths Falls shared footage of a teenager who fell into the icy waters of the Rideau River. The dramatic rescue, which lasted less than 12 minutes, aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of thin ice. The fire chief praised the teenager’s friends for promptly calling emergency services, contributing to a successful outcome.

Remarkable Discoveries and Community Innovations

In August, the Canadian Wildlife Federation announced the hatching of two albino Blanding’s turtles in captivity, marking a significant milestone. These hatchlings, born with pink skin and red eyes, represent the first documented cases of albino Blanding’s turtles in Canada. Shortly after their birth, they were released into the wild, contributing to conservation efforts.

Landlords in Ottawa voiced concerns over “professional” tenants who allegedly accrued nearly $100,000 in unpaid rent. Four landlords described their struggles with tenants who have reportedly lived rent-free for years, causing financial strain and property damage.

Another innovative solution emerged in Gatineau, where a community of 85 shipping containers was transformed into transitional housing. This initiative provided 100 units of safe accommodation, replacing a former tent city. The project, managed by Transition Québec, welcomed its first residents just before Christmas, showcasing a model that other cities, including Montreal and Quebec City, are considering replicating.

As the summer ended, the influx of wasps prompted discussions about the impact on outdoor activities. Residents reported challenges with wasps interrupting their dining experiences, leading to a video that explored effective ways to manage these pesky insects.

Finally, the demolition of a century-old CN Rail bridge on Carling Avenue marked the end of an era. Residents celebrated the removal of this long-standing pinch point, as the bridge had posed safety concerns for years. The video reflecting on this significant change in the community was well-received, further demonstrating the diverse range of stories that resonated with CBC Ottawa’s audience in 2025.

These ten videos encapsulate the rich tapestry of local life in Ottawa, showcasing both challenges and triumphs that have defined the year.