Episode 11: The Air Farce Ace- Don Ferguson

Cast of The Royal Canadian Air Farce, circa 1974. Ferguson, far right.

Some interviews I set up can take months. I have to first diligently try and track down a guest by wading through expired contact information, vaulting over and around meddlesome PR flacks, and then try to coordinate jammed and often conflicting travel schedules. It’s the most annoying part of the gig.

And then there’s the time I booked an interview because I spotted a guy hauling his trash to the curb.

Don Ferguson is a distinguished Canadian comedian, actor, writer, and producer, celebrated for his decades of work and achievements as a founding member of the Royal Canadian Air Farce. For a generation, the troupe was a must-listen-to staple first on CBC Radio, and later CBC Television.

His comedic abilities are vast, encompassing writing, directing, and performing. Ferguson has portrayed a wide range of characters, including multiple Canadian political figures and international personalities such as Bill Clinton and Bob Dylan. His talent as a ‘straight man’ in comedy sketches, often playing off the eccentric characters portrayed by his colleagues, has been a hallmark of his career.

Ferguson’s contributions to the arts have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement. He’s also known for his work behind the scenes, having produced documentary programs for CBC Television, a science-fiction series for CBC Radio, and various stage productions.

And luckily for me, he’s also my sister’s neighbour in Toronto…which is where I spotted him taking out his trash. We started talking, decided to go for a walk, and the rest you can listen to by clicking below.