In a recent interview at 90s Con, actor Nate Richert, best known for his role as Harvey Kinkle in the iconic '90s sitcom "Sabrina the Teenage Witch," shared some interesting insights about his experience with the show. Despite starring in this cult classic, Richert revealed that he only watched two episodes when the series first aired. Over time, however, things have changed slightly as he has revisited the show, partly due to his son's interest in it. Richert also reminisced about the cast reunion at the convention and provided details about the use of multiple cats for the role of Salem, the talking feline. The discussion extended to how a potential reboot might adjust Salem's character to be more family-friendly.
A Look Back at Sabrina the Teenage Witch
At the nostalgic gathering of 90s Con held in Daytona Beach, Florida, last September, Nate Richert, now 46, reflected on his days as Harvey Kinkle in "Sabrina the Teenage Witch." Initially, Richert admitted to watching only two episodes during the original run of the show. One was the pilot episode, which he viewed at a party hosted by Melissa Joan Hart, who invited the entire cast to celebrate the premiere. The other occasion was when Hart directed her first episode, again bringing everyone together for a viewing party. Since then, Richert has started watching the show more frequently, influenced by his teenage son’s interest in the series.
Richert described the 90s Con event as a heartwarming reunion with former cast members like Soleil Moon Frye, Jenna Leigh Green, and Elisa Donovan. However, one notable absence was Salem, the talking cat, whose portrayal involved a fascinating behind-the-scenes detail: over a dozen live cats were used for filming, each specializing in different tasks such as wearing costumes or climbing ladders. Additionally, an animatronic version of Salem was operated by a crew member hidden within the set furniture to achieve the talking effect.
Melissa Joan Hart also commented on the possibility of a reboot, suggesting that Salem's lines might need adjustments to make them more appropriate for younger audiences, as some of the humor in the original series was aimed at adults.
The show, which premiered in 1996, is currently available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and Paramount+.
From a journalistic perspective, Richert's reflections offer a unique glimpse into the dynamics of a beloved TV show from the '90s. His candid admission about not watching many episodes while filming highlights the personal experiences and memories that actors carry long after their roles end. It also underscores the enduring appeal of "Sabrina the Teenage Witch" and its ability to bring people together, even years after its initial run. The detailed explanation of how multiple cats were used for Salem adds an intriguing layer to the production process, showcasing the creative solutions employed to bring magical elements to life on screen. Ultimately, this story serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of classic television and the fondness it continues to inspire in both cast and fans alike.