TORONTO – The Canadian sketch comedy television series “Second City Television,” known as “SCTV,” celebrated its 50th anniversary on Monday.
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The series, which debuted in 1976, is remembered for its influence on television and generations of comedians.
SCTV celebrates 50 years
Big picture view:
According to IMDB, “SCTV” was built around the fictional Second City Television network, using sketches to parody television programming, celebrities, advertising and the entertainment industry.
The format allowed the cast to create a wide range of recurring characters and fictional shows, giving the series a distinctive comedy world of its own.
Eugene Levy, Andrea Martin, and Dave Thomas pose for a portrait in 1980 in Los Angeles, California. (Credit: Donaldson Collection/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
The show is known for launching the careers of performers including John Candy, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short, Rick Moranis and Andrea Martin.
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Among its memorable creations were O’Hara’s Lola Heatherton, Levy’s Bobby Bittman, Candy’s Johnny LaRue and Martin’s Edith Prickley. The performers’ work on “SCTV” helped establish them as major figures in comedy and opened the door to successful careers in movies and television.
Catherine O’Hara in character for “SCTV” tapings. (Credit: Reg Innell/Toronto Star via Getty Images)
The series earned 15 Primetime Emmy nominations and 2 wins during its NBC network run, according to the Television Academy.
Where fans can watch SCTV
What you can do:
Comedians John Candy and Eugene Levy portray the wacky eastern European showbiz characters on the popular “SCTV” series. (Credit: Ron Bull/Toronto Star via Getty Images)
Fans can stream “SCTV” episodes on Netflix. “SCTV” lovers can also watch clips on the series’ YouTube page.
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