This Hour Has 22 Minutes
This Hour Has 22 Minutes

This Hour Has 22 Minutes

2025TV ShowReturning Series34 SeasonsEnglish

This Hour Has 22 Minutes is a weekly Canadian television comedy that airs on CBC Television. Launched in 1993 during Canada's 35th general election, the show focuses on Canadian politics, combining news parody, sketch comedy and satirical editorials. Originally featuring Cathy Jones, Rick Mercer, Greg Thomey and Mary Walsh, the series featured satirical sketches of the weekly news and Canadian political events. The show's format is a mock news program, intercut with comic sketches, parody commercials and humorous interviews of public figures. The on-location segments are frequently filmed with slanted camera angles.

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IMDb7.5/10
Director: VariousGenres: Comedy, News Satire

Plot Summary

This Hour Has 22 Minutes is a Canadian mock news program that satirizes current events, politics, and popular culture. Blending sketch comedy, man-on-the-street interviews, and news parody, the show offers a humorous and often biting commentary on the issues of the day. It is known for its sharp wit, distinctive characters, and its ability to tackle sensitive topics with a comedic yet insightful approach.

Critical Reception

Over its long run, This Hour Has 22 Minutes has been a consistent critical and commercial success in Canada. It has been lauded for its sharp political satire, its ability to remain relevant across decades, and its contributions to Canadian comedy. The show has earned numerous awards and nominations, cementing its status as a beloved and important part of Canadian television.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its relentless satire and political commentary.
  • Commended for its consistent humor and cultural relevance.
  • Noted for its unique blend of sketch comedy and news parody.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciate the show's intelligent humor and its willingness to tackle controversial topics. Many viewers value its role in Canadian culture and its ability to consistently deliver laughs.

Awards & Accolades

Numerous Gemini Awards (now Canadian Screen Awards) for Best Comedy Series and Best Writing.

Fun Fact

The show's iconic opening theme song was originally composed by a local Newfoundland band called The Wonderful Grand Band.

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