Mark Jonas Satterthwaite, a Toronto-born producer and creator, is best known for YTV’s Almost Naked Animals.
What TV shows and films is he currently working on?
Almost Naked Animals is in its third season. He is producing that and developing a slate of new comedy ideas, including an animated series called GROJBAND for Teletoon and a sitcom for an international network that remains under wraps.
What advice does he offer to people hoping to break into television?
His best advice: if someone has a stronger idea, embrace it and collaborate. Working with others often yields the best stories. Competing only on creativity leads nowhere; that path is called Snooze Avenue, a dull lane where old habits drag you down. The key is to master the basic math of storytelling—structure, pacing, and character—so you can bring energy, color, and fun. It just takes practice. Is it hard to break into entertainment coming from Canada?
He broke into TV after entering a MuchMusic creative contest and finishing in second place, only to be hired by the channel. That moment became his big break. The core message is simple: go for it. If someone wants to work in television, start with a small camera and shoot a short series with friends. Post it online and send it to production companies across Canada. Ideas are in high demand, and TV needs new voices. Everything feels hard until a person begins, then it often seems easier. What are his favorite shows? What inspired him?
He enjoys Adventure Time and much of what airs on Adult Swim for its bold creativity and playful silliness. He gets inspiration from Ricky Gervais and the comedy group Stella. The best spark comes from hanging out with friends and cooking up jokes together. Favorite Canadian band right now:
Canada has a lot to be proud of, he notes. He loves Feist, Doug Paisley, Metric, Bry Webb, and the quirky album Look Alive by Chuck Erlichman. Favorite Canadian band historically includes a few landmark acts that defined a generation.
His all-time favorite musician is Neil Young, whose music has a special place in his heart. Favorite member of One Direction?
Harry Styles is cool, but Louis Tomlinson resonates more with him. He feels Louis understands his sense of humor and heart.
His pick for the best movie of 2012 so far is Robot Frank, a film that stands apart from the common fare. The best thing about autumn is the sense of place in Canada, especially the fall leaves.
The Canadian autumn with its colorful foliage is unmatched. Do you think the world will end on December 12 in Mayan style?
He jokes that a new world may hover very close on December 11, and people could leap aboard to a fresh corner of the universe where life feels easier. Animals would stay on Earth, which would still be fine. He offers a playful send-off to the old ways, with warmth for the animal friends and a cheeky wink that life can be wild but hopeful. Smooch!