MeTV’s Svengoolie Cast In 2026: Meet The Sven Squad Keeping The Horror Host Tradition Alive
The legendary Saturday night horror showcase Svengoolie continues to dominate late-night broadcast ratings, thanks to a dynamic roster of performers supporting the beloved main host. As of August 2026, lead host Rich Koz and his expanded "Sven Squad" have solidified a new era of horror hosting, blending classic monster movies with fresh, ensemble-driven comedy. The expanded lineup ensures that the multi-generational MeTV staple remains both nostalgic and highly energetic.
| Cast Member | Character / Role | Joined Show | Key Attribute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rich Koz | Svengoolie / Kerwyn | 1979 | The Legendary Lead Host & Puppeteer |
| Sarah Bergman | Gwengoolie | 2022 | The Glamorous, Multitalented Co-host |
| Scott Gryder | Nostalgiaferatu | 2022 | The Melodramatic, Pop-Culture Loving Vampire |
| Jim Roche | IMP (Idiotic Monster Associate) | 2022 | The Mischievous, Trouble-Making Sidekick |
| Doug Scharf | Doug Graves | Classic Era | The Deadpan Keyboardist |
From Solo Ghoul to the Sven Squad Ensemble
For decades, Chicago broadcasting icon Rich Koz carried the coffin virtually on his own, portraying the titular ghoul with a mix of groaning puns, flying rubber chickens, and musical parodies. However, to secure the franchise's longevity and expand its creative boundaries, MeTV launched a nationwide search that culminated in the debut of the Sven Squad.
Each squad member brings a unique comedic flavor to the broadcast. Gwengoolie (Sarah Bergman) charms audiences with her vintage style and sharp wit, while Nostalgiaferatu (Scott Gryder) provides theatrical, dramatic flair that perfectly contrasts Svengoolie's dry humor. Meanwhile, IMP (Jim Roche) drives physical comedy bits and behind-the-scenes chaos, while long-time musical companion Doug Graves (Doug Scharf) continues to provide the iconic organ refrains that soundtrack Sven's groan-worthy jokes. This ensemble dynamic has breathed fresh life into the format without losing the show's signature community-driven charm.
How to Watch the Cast Deliver Weekly Monster Mayhem
Fans looking to catch the Svengoolie cast in action have multiple viewing options across broadcast television and streaming platforms in 2026:
- Broadcast TV: Catch the show every Saturday night at 8:00 PM Eastern / 7:00 PM Central on MeTV.
- Live Streaming: Watch the broadcast live via subscription streaming services that carry MeTV, including Frndly TV and Philo.
- Weekly Content Highlights: Each two-hour broadcast features a classic sci-fi or horror film interspersed with Sven Squad sketches, the "Spawn of Svengoolie" fan mail segments, and the iconic chicken-throwing climax.
Rich Koz aka Svengoolie! | WGN Radio 720 - Chicago's Very Own
Keeping the Coffin Open: The Cast's 2026 Roadmap and Legacy
The expanded cast strategy has proven to be a masterclass in brand preservation. By sharing the physical demands of physical comedy sketches and live convention appearances with the Sven Squad, Rich Koz continues to anchor the franchise comfortably.
Throughout 2026, the cast is scheduled to appear at major pop-culture conventions, keeping the fan-first spirit of the show alive. This collaborative presentation ensures that even as the landscape of television evolves, the art of the late-night horror host remains a vibrant, living tradition rather than a relic of the past.
