SCTV (1976–1984)
- Sep 20, 1976
- 2 min read
SCTV (Second City Television) is a Canadian sketch comedy series that became a cult classic of the 1970s and 1980s, celebrated for its sharp satire, inventive sketches, and brilliant ensemble of comedians. Airing on Global Television Network, then CBC in Canada, and later on NBC and Cinemax in the U.S., the show stood out for its parody of television programming and behind-the-scenes chaos at a fictional TV station. Its irreverent humor and iconic characters made it a television landmark.
Created by Andrew Alexander and Bernard Sahlins, with contributions from the Second City comedy troupe, SCTV premiered on September 21, 1976, and its final episode aired on July 17, 1984. The concept of a show within a show, set at a quirky TV station, allowed for boundless creativity, resonating with audiences and influencing comedy for decades.
Plot
Set in the fictional town of Melonville, SCTV portrays the chaotic operations of a low-budget television station, showcasing a mix of parody programming like news, soap operas, talk shows, and commercials. Recurring sketches include “SCTV News” with anchors Floyd Robertson and Earl Camembert, the soap opera “The Days of the Week,” and the Canadian-centric “Great White North” with Bob and Doug McKenzie. The show satirizes media, pop culture, and human foibles, with humor driven by absurd premises, celebrity impersonations, and backstage antics of the station’s eccentric staff.
Cast
John Candy as Various Characters
Joe Flaherty as Various Characters
Eugene Levy as Various Characters
Andrea Martin as Various Characters
Catherine O’Hara as Various Characters
Rick Moranis as Various Characters (seasons 3–6)
Dave Thomas as Various Characters
Harold Ramis as Various Characters (season 1, limited season 2)
Martin Short as Various Characters (seasons 4–6)
Notable guest stars: Robin Williams, Bill Murray
Seasons and Episodes
Season 1 (1976–1977, Global) – 26 episodes
Season 2 (1978–1979, Global) – 26 episodes
Season 3 (1980–1981, CBC) – 26 episodes
Season 4 (1981–1982, NBC, as SCTV Network 90) – 27 episodes
Season 5 (1982–1983, NBC) – 18 episodes
Season 6 (1983–1984, Cinemax, as SCTV Channel) – 18 episodes Total Episodes: 141
Cultural Impact
SCTV became a comedy touchstone, with its theme song by Ian Thomas and sketches like “Great White North” spawning catchphrases (“Take off, eh!”) and a 1983 film, Strange Brew. Iconic characters like Edith Prickley, Guy Caballero, and Bob and Doug McKenzie became fan favorites. The show’s sharp media satire influenced Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons, and 30 Rock. Its ensemble launched stars like John Candy, Eugene Levy, and Catherine O’Hara into major careers. Syndication on Comedy Central, streaming on platforms like Tubi and Amazon Prime, and DVD releases keep it accessible, with fan discussions and merchandise like T-shirts sustaining its cult status.
Honors and Recognition
SCTV won nine Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Writing in a Variety or Music Program (1982, 1983), and earned 28 nominations. Its innovative sketches and ensemble brilliance were praised, with critics lauding its smarter, less topical humor compared to contemporaries.
Conclusion
SCTV remains a comedy masterpiece, celebrated for its inventive satire, unforgettable characters, and groundbreaking ensemble. Its influence on sketch comedy and lasting cult appeal ensure its place as a timeless classic that continues to entertain audiences across generations.
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