Switchback (TV series) facts for kids

Switchback was a fun Canadian TV show made just for kids and teenagers. It first aired in the 1980s on CBC Television. The show was like a big party every Sunday morning, packed with different kinds of entertainment. It had cool music videos, chats with famous people, funny cartoons, comedy acts, and even puppets! Viewers could also join in with exciting contests.

What Was Switchback?

Switchback was known as an "interactive youth variety show". This means it had many different types of performances and also let the audience get involved. Kids could call in, send letters, or participate in contests. It was a lively mix of entertainment designed to keep young viewers hooked.

A Show Across Canada

One special thing about Switchback was how it was made. Instead of just one big show from one city, it was produced in many different Canadian cities at the same time! Each city had its own local hosts and most of the show's content was made right there. This meant kids in different parts of Canada got to see their own local version of Switchback.

Cities and Their Shows

The main cities that produced their own Switchback shows were Vancouver, Winnipeg, Regina, Halifax, Calgary, Ottawa, and Toronto. Even if a city didn't make its own version, other CBC stations would still show one of the existing editions. This helped make sure kids all over Canada could watch.

Meet the Hosts

Many friendly faces hosted Switchback over the years. Each city had its own team of hosts who brought their unique energy to the show. For example, some hosts in Vancouver included Rick Scott and Stu Jeffries. In Toronto, you might have seen Shawn Thompson or Dale Martindale. Stan Johnson was a well-known host in Halifax, and Laurie Mustard hosted in Winnipeg. These hosts helped make the show feel personal and exciting for kids watching at home.

The End of Switchback

Like all TV shows, Switchback eventually came to an end. In 1988, the shows produced in Toronto, Winnipeg, and Calgary stopped airing. Viewers in those areas then started watching one of the Switchback editions from other cities. Around the same time, there were some changes with the hosts in the Halifax show.

Finally, in early 1990, all the remaining Switchback shows were cancelled. This happened because of some money problems at the CBC. Even though it ended, Switchback is remembered as a fun and unique show that brought entertainment to Canadian kids and teens throughout the 1980s.