Bizarre: The Canadian Sketch Comedy Show That Pushed Boundaries
Bizarre, a Canadian sketch comedy series that aired from 1980 to 1986, remains a notable and often controversial, entry in television history. Created by Bob Einstein and Winnipeg-born Allan Blye, and hosted by comedian John Byner, the show distinguished itself with its risque content, self-awareness, and willingness to break the fourth wall—influencing later shows like Saturday Night Live. While initially rejected by American broadcaster ABC after a pilot in 1979, Bizarre found a home on CTV in Canada and gained a cult following through its uncensored episodes on Showtime in the United States.
From ABC Rejection to Canadian Production
After ABC passed on the pilot episode in 1979, CTV picked up Bizarre, producing it at CFTO’s Glen Warren Studios in Scarborough, Ontario. Wikipedia. The show aired a censored version in Canada from 1980 to 1986, while the more explicit material was broadcast on Showtime. National Post.
A Cast of Rising Stars
Bizarre served as an early platform for several performers who would later achieve greater fame. Mike Myers, known for his work in films like Wayne’s World and Austin Powers, appeared on the show alongside future stars. National Post. The cast also included Bob Einstein, Allan Blye, Philip Akin, George Allen, Harvey Atkin, Billy Barty, Cynthia Belliveau, Tanya Boyd, Dave Broadfoot, George Buza, Lally Cadeau, Christine Cattell, George Cowan, Jennifer Dale, Richard Dawson, Laura Dickson, Jack Duffy, Jayne Eastwood, John Evans, Astrid Falconi, S.J. Fellowes, Barry Flatman, Redd Foxx, David Fraser, Candace Frazee, Brian George, Luba Goy, Nonnie Griffin, Lori Hallier, Barbara Hamilton, Tom Harvey, John Hemphill, Laura Henry, Ken James, Keith Knight, Mimi Kuzyk, Don Lake, Kathleen Laskey, Carrie Leigh, Cec Linder, Ziggy Lorenc, Kate Lynch, David Merry, Jack Newman, Pat Marsden, Viki Matthews, Annie McAuley, Debra McGrath, Julie McLeod, Sherry Miller, Pat Morita, Kathy Nagy, Mark Parr, Suzie Pellman, Earl Pennington, Donnelly Rhodes, Dar Robinson, Laura Robinson, Wayne Robson, Mary Beth Rubens, Saul Rubinek, Elijah Siegler, Sharolyn Sparrow, Beau Starr, Nancy Steen, Melissa Steinberg, Eric Taslitz, Dave Thomas, Theresa Tova, Billy Van, Mike Walden, Irene Walters, Roberta Weiss, Steve Weston, and Michael Wincott. Wikipedia
Breaking the Fourth Wall and Risqué Content
Bizarre was groundbreaking for its time, frequently breaking the fourth wall and acknowledging its own artificiality. Byner often addressed the live studio audience directly, while Einstein would interrupt sketches he deemed unfunny. National Post. The show also became known for its “blue material,” which included segments featuring Toronto models. National Post.
Super Dave and Beyond
Bizarre also served as a launching pad for the character of Super Dave Osborne, a daredevil portrayed by Bob Einstein. Wikipedia. The show ran for six seasons, totaling 141 episodes. Wikipedia.
Legacy and Influence
Bizarre remains a significant piece of Canadian television history, remembered for its innovative approach to sketch comedy and its willingness to push boundaries. Its influence can be seen in subsequent comedy shows that embraced self-awareness and unconventional humor. The show’s blend of risque content and comedic experimentation cemented its place as a cult classic and a unique contribution to the landscape of television comedy.