SURREY, British Columbia - s4story -- Cousineau's finish came with a distinction he is prouder of than the placement itself. While the competition's rules allow supporters to cast paid donation votes, Cousineau insisted on competing organically — on free daily votes only — and encouraged anyone who wished to support the Ryan Seacrest Foundation to donate to the Foundation directly rather than through the contest.

"When paid votes decide a competition, I feel it takes away from its legitimacy," said Cousineau. "I chose to take part in this one because it was a great way to raise awareness of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation and the amazing work they do. This competition was always more about the cause than any award or prize, and I'm always happy to lend my voice and effort to a cause whose benefits I truly see."

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The Ryan Seacrest Foundation builds broadcast media centres in children's hospitals, bringing entertainment and creative outlets to young patients across the country. Cousineau says he will continue promoting the competition on behalf of the remaining contestants so the cause keeps reaching a wider audience.

An 11th-place finish marks a strong showing for a Western Canadian independent host. From his weekly talk show on JESS TV in Lethbridge, Alberta, to his True Crime and Justice TV programs, Cousineau produces content grounded in respect for his audience and the ethics of journalism — work that reaches an average of more than 600,000 viewers and listeners monthly. He often uses his shows to raise awareness of major issues of importance, and to promote Canada — particularly Western and Northern Canada — as an inbound tourism destination, as a location for international film and television productions, and as a place for business investment and growth.

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Cousineau is a member of the International Federation of Journalists. His reporting has covered sports, special events and disasters, the EU refugee crisis, and Ukraine during the early days of the war, and his work was recognized with a human rights awareness award at the UK Parliament in connection with Perspectives with Angus Scott of London, UK.

"To finish 11th among so many talented hosts from around the world, with nothing behind me but free votes and the people who cast them, is something I'm genuinely grateful for," Cousineau added. "Thank you to everyone who voted, shared, and stood behind the cause."

Cousineau's competition profile remains online at http://www.tophost.org/2026/james-cousineau