

Dave Thomas of SCTV on Why Canadians Rule Comedy
7 snips May 26, 2025
Dave Thomas, a Canadian comedy legend known for his work on SCTV, dives into the rich legacy of Canadian humor. He reveals how iconic characters like Bob and Doug McKenzie shaped national identity and examined cultural stereotypes. Thomas discusses the birth of innovative comedy in 1970s Toronto, highlighting SCTV's influence on television. He also shares insights from his recent journey to Ukraine, exploring the resilience and creativity of the country's stand-up comedians amidst adversity.
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Bob and Doug McKenzie Origin Story
- Bob and Doug McKenzie were created as a mean-spirited joke aimed at CBC executives, not Canadians.
- The duo became iconic Canadian stereotypes unintentionally, shaping global perceptions of Canada for 50 years.
Canadian TV's Financial Paradox
- Canadian TV struggles due to its small population and proximity to US market, making domestic production financially challenging.
- Government incentives tried addressing this, but broadcasters sometimes exploited the system, limiting genuine Canadian content.
SCTV's Comedy Innovation
- SCTV's unique comedy emerged from artists influenced by American and British TV, creating multi-layered parodies.
- The show innovated by parodying TV culture itself with sketch formats allowing fast, varied comedy unlike traditional shows.