Switchback
Series Overview
"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.
Broadcast Schedule & Network Information
Airing status, episode counts, upcoming schedule, and network syndication.
Broadcast Syndication
1 Season • 1 Episodes
1981 – Present
Premiered: Sun, Nov 1, 1981
Latest Aired Episode
Season 1, Episode 1: “Premiere”
Premiere episode of Switchback
Seasons & Episodes Breakdown
Cast & Creators
Explore Star Directory →Stan Johnson
Host (Halifax)
Rick Scott
Host (Vancouver)
Richard Newman
Host (Vancouver)
Andrew Cochrane
Host (Vancouver)
Stu Jeffries
Host (Vancouver)
Shawn Thompson
Host (Toronto)
Howard Busgang
Host (Toronto)
Dale Martindale
Host (Toronto)
Eric Tunney
Host (Toronto)
Laurie Mustard
Host (Winnipeg)
Jim Ingebritsen
Host (Winnipeg)
Howard Glassman
Host (Calgary)
Ian MacGillvray
Host (Calgary)
Keith Sandulak
Host (Calgary)
Brigette Robinson
Host (Ottawa)
Tom New
Host (Ottawa)
Johnson Moretti
Host (Ottawa)
Natalie Gray
Host (Ottawa)
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Doug Syrota, Milt Isnor
Ted Loviscek
John Nowlan
Department Leadership Roster
Doug Syrota
Director
Ted Loviscek
Writer
Milt Isnor
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Switchback.
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Shows sharing similar genres, audiences, and storylines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Switchback
Key facts, seasons breakdown, and credits for search engines and AI assistants.
What is Switchback about?
"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.
How many seasons does Switchback have?
Switchback comprises 1 season available to explore.
Who stars in Switchback?
Key cast members in Switchback include Stan Johnson, Rick Scott, Richard Newman, Andrew Cochrane, Stu Jeffries.
Who created or directed Switchback?
Switchback was developed and directed by Doug Syrota, Milt Isnor.