The CW Network to Debut “Son of a Critch”
The CW Network has announced a partnership with CBC and Lionsgate Television to bring the acclaimed comedy series, Son of a Critch, to American audiences. The 13-episode first season of the series, created by comedian, actor, and writer Mark Critch, will debut on The CW in Summer 2023. The series is produced by Andrew Barnsley, the Emmy and Golden Globe-winning executive producer of “Schitt’s Creek,” and written by Tim McAuliffe, known for his work on “The Office” and “Last Man on Earth.”
Son of a Critch is a unique family comedy that follows the hilarious and heartfelt story of young Mark Critch coming of age in the 1980s. Based on the award-winning, bestselling memoir of the same name, the show provides a window into the life of a child who is much older inside than his 11 years, using comedy and self-deprecation to win friends and connect with the small collection of people in his limited world. The show stars Mark Critch as his father, Mike, and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as young Mark. Claire Rankin stars as Mark’s mother, Mary, alongside newcomers Sophia Powers and Mark Rivera, who play classmates of young Mark. Colton Gobbo plays Mark’s older brother, Mike Jr., and Golden Globe and SAG nominee Malcolm McDowell stars as Patrick “Pop” Critch.
“We are thrilled to work with Tim, Mark, and a pitch-perfect cast, led by an award-worthy performance by Malcolm McDowell,” said Brad Schwartz, President of Entertainment at The CW Network. “Son of a Critch is a truly unique family comedy about adolescent adventures and those awkward and relatable growing pains.”
Son of a Critch’s premiere season in Canada was the #1 scripted program on CBC in key audience demos. The series has received four prestigious Canadian Screen Award nominations and two Directors Guild of Canada nominations. The show was recently renewed for a third season and will be produced in association with The CW.
“We know it will delight audiences in its new U.S. home on The CW,” said Ryan Lowerre, Lionsgate President of Domestic Television Distribution. “Son of a Critch boasts a great cast, award-winning producers, and a sensibility informed by the comic genius of creator Mark Critch.”
Son of a Critch is executive produced by Critch, McAuliffe, Barnsley, and Allan Hawco. Renuka Jeyapalan, Perry Chafe, Amanda Joy, and Anita Kapila serve as co-executive producers with Jeyapalan directing the first four episodes of the series. Lionsgate Television will handle the worldwide distribution rights.
