Newfoundland, an isolated island situated in the North Atlantic, holds the distinction of being the easternmost province of Canada. It is also the backdrop for the family-friendly CW sitcom “Son of a Critch,” produced by the Emmy-winning Andrew Barnsley, known for his work on “Schitt’s Creek.” This show is based on the memoir of Canadian comedian/actor Mark Critch and offers a thematic departure from the previous works of British acting legend Malcolm McDowell, who plays the role of the gruff grandfather, Patrick “Pop” Critch.
Unfortunately, due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, McDowell was unable to speak about “Son of a Critch.” However, Barnsley enthusiastically shared his thoughts on the series and McDowell’s involvement. McDowell eagerly accepted the opportunity to co-star as “Pop,” a character who shares a small bedroom with his 11-year-old grandson, Mark Critch (played by Benjamin Evan Ainsworth). The series begins with Mark entering a new school where he knows no one, anxiously navigating unfamiliar territory.
Completing the ensemble cast, there is Mark Critch, portraying the earnestly goofy father, Mike, who works as a reporter at the local radio station next door to their home. Claire Rankin takes on the role of Mark’s mother, Mary, and Colton Gobbo plays the annoying older brother, Mike Jr. “Son of a Critch” has been renewed for a second season by The CW.
Barnsley, along with Mark Critch, Tim McAuliffe, and Allan Hawco, serves as an executive producer for the show. Reflecting on McDowell’s involvement, Barnsley expressed his surprise and excitement, mentioning that they had searched extensively for the right actors in Canada but could not find what they were looking for. They decided to enlist the help of UK casting directors who had previously worked on the show “Derry Girls.” It was through this collaboration that Malcolm McDowell was suggested for the role of “Pop.” Although initially skeptical, everyone involved was thrilled when McDowell showed a genuine interest in the pilot script.
Barnsley highlighted the significance of having someone like Malcolm McDowell on board for a Canadian sitcom, emphasizing that it is a rare occurrence. McDowell himself has expressed great pride in the show’s potential, going so far as to personally reach out to Barnsley and confidently declare, “Andrew, we have a show that people are going to watch.”
Barnsley, whose personal connection to Newfoundland through his mother and childhood visits shaped his passion for the project, acknowledged that the success of “Schitt’s Creek” paved the way for Canadian shows to find international audiences. Learning valuable lessons from “Schitt’s Creek,” he emphasized the importance of comedy rooted in authenticity, character development, and audience connection. Furthermore, Barnsley credits Brad Schwartz, the former president of Pop TV and the current president of entertainment at The CW, for championing the Canadian show’s journey to American television. Thanks to efforts like this, “Son of a Critch” is finding its audience and enjoying the recognition it deserves.
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