The Kids of Degrassi Street
The Kids of Degrassi Street is a Canadian children's TV show that aired from 1979 to 1986, and is the first in the Degrassi series, about the lives of a group of children living on Degrassi Street in Toronto, Canada. It grew out of four short films: Ida Makes a Movie, Cookie Goes to the Hospital, Irene Moves In and Noel Buys a Suit, which originally aired as after-school specials on CBC Television in 1979, 1980, 1981 and 1982, respectively. The show was acclaimed for its realistic depiction of every day children's lives and tribulations, and remains memorable to many Canadians because of this. Kids of Degrassi Street featured many of the same actors who would later appear on Degrassi Junior High and Degrassi High, including Stacie Mistysyn, Neil Hope, Anais Granofsky, Sarah Charlesworth and others. However, their character names and families were different, so this series cannot technically be seen as an immediate precursor to the later shows.
Insights
Plot Summary
This Canadian teen drama anthology series explores the everyday lives and challenges of a diverse group of children and teenagers living on or near Degrassi Street. Each episode focuses on a different character or group, tackling relatable issues such as friendships, family dynamics, bullying, school pressures, and growing up. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of adolescence and its ability to address sensitive topics with authenticity and age-appropriateness.
Critical Reception
The Kids of Degrassi Street was widely acclaimed for its groundbreaking realistic portrayal of adolescent life and its willingness to tackle difficult subject matter. It garnered significant praise for its authentic writing, relatable characters, and its positive impact on young viewers, making it a beloved and enduring series in Canadian television history.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its authentic and relatable depiction of childhood and adolescence.
- Commended for its brave handling of sensitive social issues relevant to young people.
- Recognized for its positive influence and educational value for its target audience.
Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the show's lasting impact and its ability to resonate with viewers who grew up watching it, often citing its realistic portrayal of teenage experiences and its encouragement of empathy and understanding.
Awards & Accolades
Winner of multiple Gemini Awards, including Best Children's Program.
Fun Fact
The series was filmed on location in Toronto, and many of the real streets and houses used in the show still exist, making it a nostalgic landmark for many Torontonians.
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