You Can’t Do That On Television Cast: A Look Back

You Can’t Do That On Television, a Canadian sketch comedy show that aired on Nickelodeon from 1981 to 1990, featured a rotating cast of young actors. With over fifty cast members throughout its nine seasons, the show’s consistent comedic formula, rather than specific personalities, ensured its success. The show’s humor revolved around recurring sketches, thematic episodes, and memorable characters.

Christine “Moose” McGlade, a prominent cast member from 1981 to 1986, served as the show’s hostess and face. Though not overweight, her nickname “Moose” stemmed from being older and larger than other cast members. She introduced weekly themes and delivered monologues, contributing significantly to the show’s popularity.

Lisa Ruddy, another memorable cast member from 1981 to 1985, played a ditzy and obnoxious character, often contrasting with McGlade’s more level-headed persona. Ruddy’s portrayal, though sometimes annoying, made her one of the show’s most unforgettable personalities.

Alasdair Gillis, a cast member from 1982 to 1986, stood out with his unusual name and strong acting skills. His longevity on the show further solidified his status as a key player in the You Can’t Do That on Television cast.

Doug “Dougie” Ptolemy, part of the cast from 1982 to 1987, notably aged on screen during his five-year tenure. His martial arts background and past drug use added an interesting dimension to his persona.

Vanessa Lindores, also on the show from 1982 to 1987, was a frequent target of Ptolemy’s jokes in later episodes. Though her acting career seemingly ended with the show, she participated in a reunion episode for a fan convention in 2004.

Adam Reid, a cast member from 1984 to 1987, transitioned to writing for the show after his on-screen role. He has continued working in the entertainment industry, with credits in various films and television series.

Stephanie Chow, part of the cast from 1984 to 1987, was one of the few minority cast members on the predominantly white Canadian show. Her short stature potentially played into existing stereotypes about Asians.

Abby Hagyard, a constant presence from 1982 to 1990, played various adult female characters, most notably Valerie Prevert and the librarian. Her consistent presence provided stability amidst the frequently changing young cast.

While water dousing anyone who said “water” was a classic gag, the show’s trademark was green slime. The phrase “I don’t know” triggered a slime drenching, becoming a significant part of the show’s and Nickelodeon’s legacy.

Les Lye, the true star of the show, played every adult male character throughout its entire run. His versatility allowed him to portray numerous distinct personalities, from the producer Ross Ewich to Barth and Blip. He was the only actor present for all seasons of the show.

Other notable cast members included a young Alanis Morissette in 1986, before her rise to music fame. Matthew Godfrey, part of the cast from 1986 to 1987, bore a resemblance to another child actor of the time.

The show’s core concept revolved around a television show within a television show, focusing on the interactions between Ross Ewich and the child actors. Recurring sketches, such as those featuring the Prevert family, Blip’s Arcade, Snake Eyes the bus driver, and Mr. Shidler the teacher, contributed significantly to the show’s lasting appeal.

The show also featured more outlandish characters like El Capitan, a Fidel Castro-esque figure who sought to execute children, and recurring sketches set in a dungeon and a detention room. Barth’s Burgery, known for its unsanitary food preparation, was another popular recurring sketch.

You Can’t Do That on Television drew inspiration from shows like Monty Python’s Flying Circus and Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, evident in its absurdist humor, recurring characters, and use of a locker room similar to Laugh-In’s joke wall. The show’s unique blend of cynicism, irreverence, and gross-out humor resonated with young audiences, setting it apart from other children’s programming of the time.