Here are ten lesser-known and fascinating facts about Trailer Park Boys that even die-hard fans may not know about. These facts include rare production tales, cast details that make the show special, and little-seen moments behind the scenes that give this show its identity.
1. The Original Cast Was Not Professional Actors
Robb Wells (Ricky) and John Paul Tremblay (Julian), two key cast members, had an unconventional start to their careers.
Before joining the show, they ran a pizza place together. Founder Mike Clattenburg recruited them for their ‘natural’ presence before the camera. The cast also included a notable veteran performer, John Dunsworth (Lahey), who hailed from a theater background.
2. Bubbles’ Iconic Glasses Have an Unconventional Origin
Mike Smith’s iconic glasses, which define his character Bubbles, have a unique origin.
He received them at an estate sale in Texas. The initial thought was to use them as a joke.
But then these glasses eventually became a central part of his character, adding an amusing twist to his persona as Bubbles.
3. Early Seasons Were Filmed at Real Trailer Parks
The first four seasons of The RV Show were filmed in real trailer parks across different locations including Nova Scotia.
This use of authentic locations added a unique charm to the show’s early seasons, making the audience feel more connected to the characters and their world.
4. Its Mockumentary Style Misled Many Viewers
Because TPB uses loose scripts and handheld camera shots, many viewers initially mistakenly believed the show to be a real documentary or reality programming. Characters sometimes interact directly with the crew, who even become part of storylines themselves.
5. John Dunsworth (Lahey) Didn’t Drink At All
Contrary to popular belief, John Dunsworth never touched alcohol during filming of Lahey; instead, he often substituted water and soda in lieu of actual liquor for onscreen scenes depicted.
6. Julian Is Almost Unbreakable
No matter the commotion on set, Julian can always be found drinking his beloved rum and Coke drink–sometimes keeping it upright after even an epic car flip! This drink has become a running joke between cast and fans alike.
7. Producer Barrie Dunn Emerges as a Key Figure
Barrie Dunn (who played Ray, Ricky’s dad in TPB) was actually the producer who played an instrumental role in getting TPB going. He advocated for expanding it from a short film format into a full series format before eventually joining as a cast member himself.
8. J-Roc Begins as an Inside Joke
J-Roc’s name originated as an inside joke when John Paul Tremblay inadvertently referred to Jonathan Torrens by nickname while passing him the ketchup bottle; this amusing exchange led to its adoption as part of J-Roc’s characterisation.
9. Cast members use their real first names
Lucy, Sarah, George, and Cory all used their actual first names when appearing on the show to add an authentic and mockumentary feel while blurring lines between reality and fiction.
10. Improvisation Was at the Core of TPB’s Humor
Much of TPB’s dialogue wasn’t written down beforehand. Instead, cast members were encouraged to improvise based on broad story outlines; this often resulted in hilarious “Rickyisms”–his signature accented English phrases–and unplanned physical comedy moments from this show.
Due to its use of regional Canadian accents, early TV broadcasters had difficulty accepting this series, but over time, it has become a cult classic worldwide.
“Closer to the Heart!”‘The concert scenes were shot at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre instead of Halifax, as suggested in this episode.
Ricky’s beloved “Shitmobile” only makes its appearance eight times throughout the series, providing fans with an Easter egg!