MARK CRITCH + MALCOLM MCDOWELL

On the Saturday January 11, 2025 edition of "The Richard Crouse Show" we meet Mark Critch, star of "Son of a Critch," now entering its fourth season on CBC and CBC Gem. Developed from his 2018 memoir, “Son of a Critch,” which was in turn based on his real-life experiences growing up in Newfoundland, the series is an entertaining look into the life of a kid who is much older than his years.

Young Mark is played by Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, Claire Rankin (Mary, Mark's mother), Sophia Powers (friend and love interest Fox), Colton Gobbo (Mike Jr., Mark's older brother), Mark Rivera (best friend Ritche) film legend Malcolm McDowell (Pop) and Mark plays his late father, Mike Critch, a popular local radio host.

The first three seasons saw young Mark face awkward crushes, near-death experiences, family tensions and grapple with needing glasses.

With comedy, self-depreciation and heartfelt authenticity, the show now enters into its fourth season. Drawing heavily on his own life for inspiration Mark Critich the new season sees young Mark on the bottom rung in Grade 10. There Mark meets a teacher who ignites his love for acting, leading him to start a sketch comedy troupe, Cat Fud. His mom Mary, facing menopause and a mid-life crisis, goes back to school for a fresh start. Brother Mike Jr. embarks on a radio career, joining Magic 97, a new FM radio station, and finds himself competing with his father, Mike Sr. who struggles to feel relevant when a new owner buys the radio station VOCM.

I chat with Mark, then go to the vault for an interview with his co-star, the legendary Malcolm McDowell who plays his grandfather on the show.