Cathy Jones

Cathy Jones

Cathy Jones was born on April 6th, 1955

Nationality: Canadian
Profession: Actress
Occupation: Comedian, writer
Genre: Comedy, drama
Notable work: This Hour Has 22 Minutes, CODCO
Awards: Gemini Award, Canadian Comedy Award
Collaborations: Rick Mercer, Mary Walsh
Known for: Edith Prickley character

A talented Canadian comedian, actress, and writer, best known for her work on the popular sketch comedy show "This Hour Has 22 Minutes" and creating humorous characters that poke fun at Canadian culture.

Written by: Liam O'Sullivan Liam O'Sullivan

Cathy Jones: The Comedy Icon Behind This Hour Has 22 Minutes

Cathy Jones is a Canadian actress, comedian, and writer, renowned for her humorously irreverent and boundary-pushing performances on the Canadian television series This Hour Has 22 Minutes, where she spent an impressive 28 years making audiences laugh and challenging social norms. Her unique brand of humor, which often blurred the lines between gender and identity, earned her a loyal following and critical acclaim.

Early Life and the Rise of CODCO

Born on April 6, 1955, in St. John's, Newfoundland, Cathy Jones was destined for a life in the entertainment industry. Her older brother, comedian Andy Jones, introduced her to the Newfoundland Traveling Theatre Company when she was just 17, and she quickly found herself touring with the troupe.

In 1973, Jones joined forces with Tommy Sexton, Greg Malone, Mary Walsh, and Dyan Olsen in Toronto, paving the way for the formation of CODCO, a groundbreaking comedy troupe that would shape the Canadian comedy scene. Andy Jones and Robert Joy soon joined the company, solidifying its reputation as a hub for innovative comedy.

This Hour Has 22 Minutes: A Career-Defining Stint

In 1992, Jones, along with fellow comedians Rick Mercer, Mary Walsh, and Greg Thomey, created This Hour Has 22 Minutes, a satirical news program that would become a staple of Canadian television. Jones' versatility and creativity shone through in her numerous characters, often playing both men and women, and exploring the extremities of gender identity.

Some of her most memorable characters included Mrs. Enid, Babe Bennett, Joe Crow, and Love Murphy, a personal favorite that showcased her flair for playing a love interest with her female character in the short film Outport Lesbian. By 2005, Jones was the last remaining original cast member, a testament to her enduring talent and dedication to the show.

Awards and Accolades

Jones' work on This Hour Has 22 Minutes earned her multiple awards and nominations, including several Canadian Comedy Awards and a Gemini Award. Her commitment to pushing the boundaries of comedy was recognized with a WIFT-T (Women in Film and Television - Toronto) Crystal Award in 2009.

Other Ventures and Philanthropy

Aside from her work on This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Jones has toured extensively with her one-woman shows Wedding in Texas and Me, Dad and The Hundred Boyfriends, showcasing her remarkable range as a performer. Her film career includes lead roles in Secret Nation and supporting roles in How to Be Deadly and Weirdos.

Jones is also an advocate for social and environmental causes, using her platform to raise awareness and support for various charitable organizations.

Legacy and Impact

Cathy Jones' influence on Canadian comedy is immeasurable. Her fearless approach to humor and her unwavering commitment to creative expression have inspired generations of comedians and writers. As a trailblazer in a predominantly male-dominated industry, Jones has paved the way for women in comedy, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes.

Her departure from This Hour Has 22 Minutes in 2021 marked the end of an era, but her legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of comedy to challenge, provoke, and inspire.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Cathy Jones' remarkable career is a testament to her boundless creativity, her courage to push boundaries, and her unwavering dedication to making us laugh.

Timeline
1955
Born in Newfoundland
Cathy Jones was born on April 6, 1955, in St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada.
1989
Co-created This Hour Has 22 Minutes
Jones co-created the popular Canadian satirical news program This Hour Has 22 Minutes with Rick Mercer and Mary Walsh.
1993
Won Gemini Award
Jones won a Gemini Award for Best Writing in a Comedy or Variety Program for her work on This Hour Has 22 Minutes.
2002
Won Canadian Comedy Award
Jones won a Canadian Comedy Award for Best Female Performer for her work on This Hour Has 22 Minutes.
2017
Inducted into Canadian Comedy Hall of Fame
Jones was inducted into the Canadian Comedy Hall of Fame in recognition of her contributions to Canadian comedy.
Cathy Jones

Cathy Jones Quiz

What is Cathy Jones best known for in the Canadian entertainment industry?

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FAQ
What is Cathy Jones known for in the comedy world?
Cathy Jones is a renowned Canadian actress, comedian, and writer, best known for her work on the sketch comedy show This Hour Has 22 Minutes. She has been a part of the show since its inception in 1993 and has won numerous awards for her writing and acting.
What kind of comedy does Cathy Jones specialize in?
Cathy Jones is known for her satirical and political humor, often tackling topics such as Canadian politics and social issues. Her comedy is often irreverent and biting, making her a beloved figure in Canadian comedy.
Has Cathy Jones won any awards for her comedy?
Cathy Jones has won several awards for her work in comedy, including multiple Gemini Awards and Canadian Comedy Awards. She has also been nominated for several Writers Guild of Canada Awards for her writing on This Hour Has 22 Minutes.
What is Cathy Joness role in promoting women in comedy?
Cathy Jones has been a pioneer for women in comedy, paving the way for future generations of female comedians. She has been a vocal advocate for greater representation and opportunities for women in the industry.
What is Cathy Joness personal life like?
Cathy Jones is private about her personal life, but she is known to be married and has two children. She is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and continues to work on This Hour Has 22 Minutes and other projects.

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