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Son of a Critch

Son of a Critch is a Canadian coming-of-age comedy television series based on comedian Mark Critch’s memoir of the same name.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Son of a Critch is a Canadian coming-of-age comedy television series based on comedian Mark Critch’s memoir of the same name. Set in 1980s St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, it follows an adolescent Mark as he uses humour to navigate family life, school, and friendship. The series aired on CBC in Canada beginning in January 2022.

Premise

The series follows young Mark Critch as he begins junior high in 1980s St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. His humour and self-deprecation are central to how he deals with family, classmates, and adolescence.

Source material

Son of a Critch is adapted from Mark Critch’s memoir Son of a Critch: A Childish Newfoundland Memoir. The television version dramatizes his early life rather than presenting a direct documentary account.

Production and release

The show was developed for CBC and premiered in January 2022 in Canada. It later appeared on additional platforms and in international markets, including U.S. distribution.

Cast and characters

Benjamin Evan Ainsworth plays the younger Mark, while Mark Critch appears as his father, Mike Critch. The series also includes family members and school characters drawn from the memoir’s world.

Key facts

  • Based on Mark Critch’s memoir, depicting his childhood in Newfoundland.
  • Centres on 11-year-old Mark Critch, portrayed as socially awkward but witty.
  • Set in 1980s St. John’s with a nostalgic, family-oriented tone.
  • Created by Mark Critch and Tim McAuliffe.
  • Airs in Canada on CBC and CBC Gem; also distributed internationally.
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Canadian context

It is a Canadian series set in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, and it reflects Newfoundland life, humour, and childhood experience for Canadian audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is Son of a Critch about?
It is a coming-of-age comedy about 11-year-old Mark Critch growing up in 1980s St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, as he navigates school, family life, and friendships.
Is Son of a Critch based on a true story?
Yes. It is based on Mark Critch’s memoir about his own childhood experiences in Newfoundland.
Who created Son of a Critch?
The series was created by Mark Critch and Tim McAuliffe.
Where does Son of a Critch air?
In Canada, it airs on CBC and CBC Gem.
When did Son of a Critch premiere?
It premiered in January 2022 on CBC in Canada.
What language is Son of a Critch in?
The series is in English.

References

  1. CBC — https://www.cbc.ca/mediacentre/program/son-of-a-critch
    Supports: Series premise, Canadian broadcaster, creators, memoir basis, premiere timing.
  2. CBC Gem — https://gem.cbc.ca/son-of-a-critch
    Supports: Premise, setting, main character description.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Son_of_a_Critch
    Supports: Setting, character details, series overview.
  4. Netflix — https://www.netflix.com/title/81928076
    Supports: Genre, cast, creators, series description.
  5. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15310816/
    Supports: Series basis on memoir and release information.
  6. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/son_of_a_critch/s01
    Supports: Creator credits, genre, network, and adaptation details.