The ACTRA Awards was a glittering occasion honouring Canada's TV, film and radio artists. Beginning in 1972, and until 1986, the award was symbolized by the "Nellie." Later in 1986, responsibility for presenting the Canadian television and film awards was transferred to the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television which continued to present the Nellie in several categories. Now representing only performers, the ACTRA Awards were resurrected in several of its branches across Canada.

Although the awards ceremonies began in 1972, they were not televised until 1974. The last Nellies covered shows broadcast between Dec. 1, 1984, and Nov. 30, 1985.