Little/Steinberg/Alan young+

2. Rich Little:

  • Commenced his comedic career at the age of 11.

  • Hailing from Ottawa, he gained prominence through the CBC Talent Search 'Pick the Stars.'

  • In 1963, he broke into American Show Business on "The Judy Garland Show."

  • Notable for his impersonations, particularly of American public figures like Richard Nixon.

3. David Steinberg:

  • Born in Winnipeg, a figure contributing to Canadian comedy.

  • Involved in the controversial routine ("Moses and the Burning Bush") that led to the cancellation of "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour."

4. Night Cap (1960s Late Night TV Show):

  • Late-night television show with a risky blend of slapstick and naughty references.

  • Produced by Max Ferguson and Alan McFee.

  • Originated from a satiric radio show based on daily events.

5. The Holy Trinity of Canadian Comedy (1950s):

  • Represented by Wayne and Schuster, Alan Young, and Aylesworth and Peppiatt.

  • Emerged in the 50s during Canada's golden age of television.

  • Shared influence: radio, with each representing different comedy talents.

  • Notable for dissimilarity in style and appearance but influenced by radio.

8. Alan Young:

  • First Canadian comedian to fly solo in the U.S, he was also the first to bomb.  his mild-mannered speech didn't go over with American listeners they were used to Broad loud comedians

  • Known for physical comedy, modeling after silent movie comedians.

  • Success with "The Alan Young Show" on CBC Radio.

  • Transitioned to television with "The Alan Young Show" and later "Mr. Ed."

  • Experienced ups and downs; retired in 1971.

  • unlike Wayne and Schuster young was not  University educated.  instead he worked his way up through the ranks. 

  • greatest strength was his physical comedy

  •  television industry was the ideal vehicle for young his talent for physical comedy had been wasted on radio (goofy next door neighbor this formula worked with American audiences)

  • French film star Tati  adopted as similar mild mannered approach but only Young found Acceptance in the American Market because he looked and sounded like an American

  • In 1966 young appeared on Broadway but was Savaged by the critics and this critical thrashing had him cut old ties to the entertainment industry

  • Pony Showcase Theater = an all black theater company based in La that he had helped to organize and back financially for 20 years

Young VS Wayne and Schuster

  • Young had chosen to let Hollywood control his creative destiny by choosing his projects for him and by having teams of writers script his guides.  Wayne and Schuster by contrast had found moderate success in America by remaining in Canada and by controlling the writing of their shows they didn't want to go to Hollywood in Hollywood reciprocated by leaving them alone.