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Seasons & Episodes
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Cast
Stan Johnson
as Host (Halifax)
Rick Scott
as Host (Vancouver)
Richard Newman
as Host (Vancouver)
Andrew Cochrane
as Host (Vancouver)
Stu Jeffries
as Host (Vancouver)
Shawn Thompson
as Host (Toronto)
Howard Busgang
as Host (Toronto)
Dale Martindale
as Host (Toronto)
Eric Tunney
as Host (Toronto)
Laurie Mustard
as Host (Winnipeg)
Movie Info & Details
Release Year1981
Runtime1 Season
LanguageEnglish
CertificationNR
GenresReality
Votes1
DirectorRick Scott
WritersTed Loviscek
TypeWeb Series
Rating7.0 out of 10
Cast10 credited
Also Known AsSwitchback
About Switchback
"Switchback" was an hour-long interactive show for teens and preteens, featuring viewer calls, music videos, guest artists, and cartoons. Initially hosted by Stan Johnson in Halifax, it expanded to other cities, highlighting both regional talents and international acts. Airing from 1981 to 1990, it aimed to engage young audiences. In 1985, host Shawn Thompson faced arrest for throwing a doll named Kendini over Niagara Falls, in a Kentucky Fried Chicken bucket during a show segment. (He used cole slaw to cushion the doll's fall.) This act resulted in charges by Niagara Parks Police for park dumping and attracting a crowd. Thompson intended to spotlight neglected toys in a parody titled 'Doll Aid.' By 1988, the series cut some editions and faced controversy by removing its cherished long-term host, Stan Johnson. By early 1990, all editions of the program concluded due to CBC's budget reductions.
Directed by Rick Scott, Switchback leans on a strong ensemble — Stan Johnson, Rick Scott, Richard Newman — 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 reality titles of 1981.
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