“Whose Line Is It Anyway?” returning to television in July
Canadians know we're funny. Our export list is long, our comedy landscape is thriving, and thanks to Twitter, Tumblr, and Facebook, being physically in Canada seems to matter a little less than it did before. But speaking of physical location, Colin Mochrie is heading to America (The CW, specifically) to reprise his spot on the upcoming "Whose Line Is It Anway?" reboot, which makes for a very exciting chapter in Canadian comedy.
Hosted by Aisha Taylor ("Archer") and co-starring former cast mates Wayne Brady and Ryan Stiles, the improv-based series will premiere on Tuesday, July 16. Clearly, this is exciting for two reasons: the first, because "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" earned a special place in our laughter-loving hearts, and the second, because the talents of Colin Mochrie will once again be recognized on an international scale.
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Yes, the show is American, and no, Colin Mochrie hasn't exactly gone anywhere, but considering his involvement in Canadian comedy has only increased over the years (he appears at events and performs amongst younger comics regularly), Mochrie's power to bring even more attention to his countrymen/women is even more valuable.
However, that's not to say Canadian comics aren't working it. With news that CBC has renewed "Mr. D" for a third season, and that the Comedy Network has renewed "Match Game" for a 60-episode second season, writers, actors, and comedians are clearly making ground in an industry that's been undervalued by Canadians for some time -- which, hopefully, won't be the situation for too long. In the case of "Match Game," 9 million viewers have tuned in since its October 2012 premiere, while with nearly two seasons down, "Mr. D" is becoming an integral part of the CBC franchise.
Though what's exciting about Mochrie's return to "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" is the influence it will have on younger, more impressionable audiences. While comedy fans already appreciate the value of improv, those unfamiliar might find their passion for it ignite. After all, comedians or not, many cite the show as a source of joy or influence in some way -- so who's to say it won't influence even more? Especially here in Canada.
