A Viral Moment in Montreal
On August 17, 2026, a video surfaced featuring former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and pop star Katy Perry engaging in an unconventional promotional stunt at a Home Hardware store in Montreal. The pair were recorded dancing in the store aisles to “Downtown,” the new single released by Trudeau’s 18-year-old son, Xav. In the footage, which has since gained significant traction online, Trudeau is seen singing along while using a toilet plunger as a makeshift microphone, while Perry dances nearby.
Strategic Promotion for a Rising Artist
The video is part of a concerted social media campaign designed to boost the visibility of Xav’s music. According to industry tracking, the strategy appears to be yielding tangible results. “Downtown” has officially debuted at number 36 on the Billboard Canada CHR/Top 40 Airplay chart, marking a significant milestone for the young artist. Xav has recently secured a global distribution agreement involving Toronto-based 907 Records and ADA Canada, a division of Warner Music Canada.
This public display of support by the former Prime Minister and his family, including mother Sophie Grégoire, reflects a broader shift in how high-profile figures leverage personal social media channels to influence audience engagement. By utilizing “meme-worthy” content, the Trudeau family is tapping into the viral potential of short-form video platforms to bypass traditional media promotion.
The Intersection of Politics and Pop Culture
While the video has been received by many as a lighthearted celebrity sighting, it raises questions regarding the evolving nature of political branding in the digital age. Trudeau, who has previously engaged with Katy Perry in more formal settings—such as his 2026 ‘soft power’ speech at Davos—is now navigating a post-political career where informal, highly accessible content serves to maintain public relevance. For the Canadian public and political observers, the sight of a former leader using hardware supplies as props highlights a transition toward a more populist, social-media-first approach to personal branding, distinct from the rigid protocols of his time in office.