The Altar Boy Gang

The Altar Boy Gang was a satirical half hour comedy developed for the Canadian television network CBC Television in 2007. Although two episodes were shot and four more were commissioned to be written, the show was not picked up as a regular series. The two pilot episodes of this series written by Norm Hiscock aired on CBC in 2007. The show drew much angry response from Catholic groups who felt its portrayal of altar boys as drug dealing hooligans was offensive. Also the depiction of a Catholic priest who inadvertently ingests LSD was seen as disrespectful. Others enjoyed the shows and saw them merely as character studies of less-than-perfect people finding their way in the world. Kelly Makin, the director of the two pilot episodes, and David Makin, the director of photography, worked with Norm on the television show The Kids in the Hall. Andy Jones, who played the role of Father Sand, also wrote with Norm on the last season of The Kids in the Hall. Dan Redican was the story editor. The song "Soldiers of Christ" by the Canadian band Blood Meridian was the title music for the show.

Directed by —, The Altar Boy Gang leans on a strong ensemble — Jack Knight, Devon Bostick, Keir Gilchrist — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 2007.