Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Crash & Bernstein

Crash & Bernstein is an live-action comedy television series created by that premiered on on October 8, 2012, and concluded on August 11, 2014, spanning two seasons and 39 episodes. The series centers on Wyatt Bernstein, a 12-year-old boy surrounded by females in his household—including his three sisters Amanda, Cleo, and Jasmine, as well as his mother Mel—who wishes for a brother and creates a stuffed named Crash during a visit to a Build-A-Bestie workshop; the unexpectedly comes to life, becoming an energetic, mischievous, and opinionated companion who disrupts family life while helping Wyatt navigate social challenges and build confidence. Produced by , the show features a mix of live-action performances and intricate puppetry, with Emmy-nominated puppeteer providing the voice and manipulation for the titular character , while Jensen stars as Wyatt. Supporting cast includes as Cleo, as Jasmine, Oana Gregory as Amanda, and as Mr. Poulos, the family handyman. The series emphasizes themes of family dynamics, , and the joys of brotherhood through humor and fantastical elements, targeted at a tween audience. Despite mixed critical reception, with an user rating of 5.2/10 and praise for its creative but criticism for formulaic plots, Crash & Bernstein found a niche among young viewers for its energetic antics and relatable coming-of-age stories.

Premise and Production

Premise

Crash & Bernstein is an live-action comedy series that follows the adventures of 12-year-old Wyatt Bernstein, the only boy in a family dominated by his mother and three sisters in . Living in a household filled with female energy, Wyatt often feels outnumbered and yearns for a brother to share his experiences, a wish that intensifies around his birthday. To fulfill this desire, Wyatt visits the Build-A-Bestie workshop, where he constructs a custom named using materials like socks and tennis balls. Miraculously, springs to life as Wyatt's hyperactive, mischievous, and loud-mouthed surrogate brother, injecting chaos and excitement into the family's daily routine. This fantastical element blends seamless with live-action, allowing to interact directly with the human characters in comedic scenarios. The series explores the evolving family dynamics as Crash's unpredictable personality amplifies sibling rivalries and sparks outrageous adventures, from navigating challenges to tackling household mishaps. While Crash encourages Wyatt to step out of his shell and embrace boldness, Wyatt teaches his brother the nuances of human etiquette and responsibility, often leading to humorous backfires that test the Bernstein family's bonds. The primary setting is their home, where these interactions unfold against the backdrop of everyday suburban life.

Development

Crash & Bernstein was created by , a television writer and producer known for his work on series. Friedman's concept drew from personal reflections on childhood dynamics, envisioning a live-action that blended human actors with to explore themes of brotherhood. Development of the series officially began in April 2012, when greenlit the project, marking a key milestone in its path to production. The show was produced by , Inc., a Disney-owned company specializing in live-action teen sitcoms for and . Production commenced in May 2012 in , emphasizing a multi-camera setup that integrated practical effects to bring the titular character to life alongside the human cast. A central element of the format was the innovative use of , with veteran puppeteer designing, building, and performing the role of , ensuring seamless interaction in scenes. This approach required specialized training for actors to engage naturally with the , enhancing the sitcom's comedic timing and visual appeal. Following the success of its first season, announced the renewal for a second season on April 15, 2013, with production resuming in July of that year in , . This decision solidified the series' structure as a two-season run, allowing for 39 episodes in total while capitalizing on the show's unique puppet-human hybrid format.

Cast and Characters

Main

Wyatt Bernstein is the 12-year-old protagonist of Crash & Bernstein, portrayed by Cole Jensen. He is an inventive and level-headed boy who creates the Crash at a Build-A-Bestie workshop as his ideal and surrogate brother. Wyatt often serves as the voice of reason amid the chaos caused by his puppet sibling. Crash is the hyperactive, stunt-obsessed who becomes Wyatt's chaotic and "brother," voiced and puppeteered by . Known for his wild energy, love of extreme antics, and signature catchphrases like "Face-slam!", Crash brings constant disruption to the Bernstein household with his impulsive and destructive tendencies. Cleo Bernstein, played by , is Wyatt's 13-year-old tomboyish sister and a competitive who excels in sports like soccer and often engages in sibling rivalries. Her tough, no-nonsense attitude frequently clashes with 's antics, though she occasionally teams up with her brothers for adventures. Amanda Bernstein, portrayed by Oana Gregory, is the 16-year-old glamorous eldest sister focused on her , , and romantic interests. Preoccupied with popularity and boys at , she often views as an embarrassing nuisance that threatens her image. Pesto, played by Aaron R. Landon, is Wyatt's quirky best human friend who shares his enthusiasm for arcade games and inventive schemes. Eccentric and easily excitable, Pesto frequently joins Wyatt and Crash in their misguided plans, adding comic relief through his oddball personality and unwavering loyalty.

Recurring

Jasmine Bernstein, the 6-year-old youngest member of the Bernstein family, is portrayed by in the series. She appears across multiple episodes, contributing to the family dynamics in a household otherwise dominated by female characters. Grace's role marks one of her early television appearances as a recurring player. Mel Bernstein, the mother of Wyatt, Cleo, Amanda, and Jasmine, is played by . Birdsong appears in 22 episodes, often depicted as managing the chaotic all-female household alongside the antics of her children and the Crash. Her character provides a grounding presence in the family's , Oregon-based life. Scottie, a schoolmate of the Bernstein siblings who occasionally joins their escapades, is portrayed by Curtis Harris. Harris recurs in 4 episodes, serving as a supporting ally in school-related storylines at Linus Pauling Middle School. Martin Poulos, the landlord and handyman of the Bernstein family's apartment building and a frequent neighborhood foil, is played by Danny Woodburn. Woodburn appears in 11 episodes, often interacting with the family in comedic conflicts over building rules and daily mishaps. Additional recurring figures include peripheral school friends and authority types, such as rival students appearing sporadically to heighten competitive elements in Wyatt's arcs, and neighbors like Ms. Lopez (), who features in community and neighborly subplots across several installments.

Episodes

Season 1

The first season of Crash & Bernstein comprises 26 half-hour episodes, which originally aired on from October 8, 2012, to July 29, 2013. This inaugural run established the core dynamics of the series, centering on the chaotic yet heartfelt integration of the Crash into the Bernstein household. Thematically, the season emphasizes Crash's initial adjustment to family life, marked by high-energy adventures that highlight themes of brotherhood, mischief, and . Episodes explore Wyatt's wish for a brother coming to life through , leading to comedic scenarios involving school, home antics, and family interactions that strengthen their bond while contrasting Crash's wild personality with the structured environment. The narrative arc progresses from Crash's literal "landing" in Wyatt's world to deeper explorations of loyalty and growth, using and live-action to blend humor with relatable family dynamics. In production, the pilot episode "Crash Lands" introduces the premise, showing Wyatt constructing at a Build-A-Bestie workshop during his birthday celebration, which magically animates the puppet and launches their partnership. Directed by Bruce Leddy and written by series creator , the episode sets the tone for the season's blend of and live-action, filmed primarily in . The overall arc methodically builds Wyatt and Crash's relationship, evolving from tentative alliances in early outings to collaborative exploits by mid-season, with consistent creative input from emphasizing improvisational puppet performance. Notable episodes include the "Crash Lands," which establishes the central conflict and characters, and the two-part "Crash on the Run" (episodes 25 and 26), where escalating tensions test their . Mid-season highlights, such as "Crashlemania" ( 18), showcase themed wrestling mayhem that amplifies the season's adventurous spirit without resolving ongoing arcs. For full details, see the dedicated episodes list.

Season 2

The second season of Crash & Bernstein comprises 13 episodes, premiering on October 7, 2013, with "The Nosejob Job" and concluding on August 11, 2014, with "Double Header." Following the renewal announced on April 15, 2013, production resumed in July 2013 at the show's , , studio, allowing for expanded storytelling that built on the established premise of Wyatt and Crash's brotherly dynamic. This season evolved thematically by delving deeper into family challenges, including the return of Wyatt's globetrotting father, Karl , which introduced tensions and reconciliations within the household. Plots became more stunt-heavy, emphasizing high-energy adventures like survival escapades and action-oriented schemes that highlighted Crash's chaotic personality, while maintaining focus on the Bernstein siblings' everyday trials. Notable episodes included the mid-season special "Merry Crashenfest," aired December 3, 2013, in which Crash invents a hybrid fusing elements from various celebrations to inject excitement into the family's traditions. Other standout installments featured reveals such as unexpected family expansions in "Crash Is Having a Baby" and fraternity mishaps in "Frat Chance," blending humor with relational growth. Production for the season incorporated the renewal's momentum to craft a conclusive arc, culminating in the finale "Double Header," where sprouts a second head named amid comedic body-sharing conflicts that ties up key character developments. This wrap-up emphasized the series' core themes of brotherhood and family resilience without introducing new ongoing threads.

Broadcast

Domestic Broadcast

Crash & Bernstein is a live-action series incorporating elements, with each episode having a of approximately 22 minutes. The show premiered in the United States on on October 8, 2012, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT. It primarily aired on in Monday night time slots, though scheduling varied across seasons, including occasional broadcasts at 7:30 p.m. or 9:00 p.m. ET. Some episodes were also aired on the during its first season. The series ran for two seasons, concluding its original broadcast run on Disney XD with the finale episode "Double Header" on August 18, 2014, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT. Following the end of new episodes, reruns of Crash & Bernstein continued to air on in the United States, maintaining its presence in the network's lineup for young audiences.

International Broadcast

Crash & Bernstein premiered internationally on in on November 3, 2012, shortly following its debut. The series launched in the and on on January 10, 2013. In , it debuted on on February 9, 2013. The show reached and on April 19, 2013, initially on before transitioning to . The series was broadcast on various Disney XD channels worldwide, with distribution handled by Disney-ABC International Television. Reruns continued in on Disney XD through late 2015. For international audiences, Crash & Bernstein was localized through and subtitles in multiple languages, including , (Latin America), Turkish, , , and others, available on platforms like Disney+. No significant content alterations were made for these versions.

Reception and Legacy

Critical Reception

Upon its premiere, Crash & Bernstein received mixed reviews from critics, with praise centered on its innovative use of puppetry and family-oriented humor, tempered by concerns over its slapstick style and potential to encourage misbehavior. Emily Ashby of Common Sense Media awarded the series 3 out of 5 stars, lauding its revival of puppet comedy that appeals particularly to young boys through engaging slapstick elements and the charm of the puppet character Crash, while noting that the show's emphasis on family values provides some positive takeaways. However, Ashby criticized the abundance of potty humor and chaotic antics, which she argued could promote negative behaviors like disruption and rule-breaking, recommending parental guidance to discuss the difference between fantasy and reality with viewers aged 8 and up. The series was generally appreciated for its lighthearted exploration of sibling relationships and themes of belonging in a dynamic led by a and her four children—three sisters and one brother—highlighting diversity in structures and the value of amid conflicts. Reviewers noted the as a fresh in children's , blending live-action with a lively to inject energy into otherwise formulaic scenarios, reminiscent of classic Muppet-style performances but tailored for a contemporary . Yet, outlets like Bubbleblabber pointed to criticisms of the show's repetitive plots and underdeveloped , which limited its depth and made episodes feel predictable despite the visual appeal of the puppet work. Audience reception mirrored this ambivalence, with an user rating of 5.2 out of 10 based on nearly 1,000 reviews, where fans praised its entertaining chaos and relatable family themes, but others found the humor juvenile and the storytelling shallow. Viewership metrics underscored its appeal to Disney XD's target demographic, as the 2012 drew approximately 600,000 total viewers—a strong debut for —and subsequent episodes achieved peaks of 959,000 viewers, contributing to its renewal for a second season due to strong performance among kids and boys.

Interactivity

Disney XD engaged fans of Crash & Bernstein through interactive online campaigns that extended the show's puppetry-themed humor into digital spaces. In July 2013, the network launched the "Pick Crash's Nose" initiative on DisneyXD.com, allowing viewers to vote for a new nose design for the character ahead of the second season. Voting began on September 9, 2013, and the winning nose—selected from fan-submitted options—was dramatically revealed during the Season 2 premiere on October 7, 2013, integrating audience participation directly into the episode's narrative. Complementing the show's chaotic antics, Disney XD released "Crash & Bernstein: Cluck n’ Chuck," an interactive video game tied to the second season launch. Available on computers and mobile devices via DisneyXD.com starting October 2013, the game cast players as and Wyatt in puzzle-based action challenges, such as defending their hangout spot from enemies using rubber chickens and cannons, mirroring the series' blend of live-action and elements. This title encouraged repeated engagement by incorporating show-specific humor and scenarios, like explosive confrontations and neighborhood takeovers. Beyond these flagship efforts, the official Disney XD website and YouTube channel offered additional digital tie-ins during the show's run from 2012 to 2014, including full-length episode streams, behind-the-scenes videos showcasing puppet fabrication and on-set pranks, and social media prompts for fan-generated content. These features, shared across platforms like Twitter and Facebook, invited viewers to recreate Crash's wild personality through memes and challenges, fostering a sense of community around the puppet's irreverent world. Collectively, these interactivity elements were designed to deepen immersion in the show's unique , transforming passive viewing into active participation and extending the franchise's appeal to tech-savvy young audiences. By blending , , and multimedia extras, aimed to build loyalty and buzz, particularly around key milestones like season premieres. As of 2025, all episodes are available for streaming on Disney+, contributing to its ongoing legacy.

Cancelled Spin-off

Following the conclusion of Crash & Bernstein in August 2014, Disney XD greenlit production on a potential spin-off pilot titled Commando Crash. The project, written by Crash & Bernstein co-executive producer Eric Friedman and directed by Victor Gonzalez, centered on the titular puppet character Crash enrolling at Oak Shield Military School, where he navigates strict discipline while plotting mischievous escapades. Production on the live-action pilot began on July 10, 2014, with wrapping shortly thereafter. reprised his role as the voice and puppeteer for , the Emmy-nominated purple puppet from the original series. The supporting cast included as Hunter, Armaan Juneja as Z, Megan Goodman as Kit, and Nicholas Stargel as Duchowski, alongside puppeteers such as Adam Dorfman. Despite its completion, Commando Crash did not advance beyond the pilot stage, and Disney XD opted not to order a full series. The unaired episode remains unreleased to the public, with no official footage or further developments reported since 2014. As a proposed extension, the pilot aimed to relocate Crash to a new military academy setting, building on his chaotic persona independent of the Bernstein family dynamics.

References

  1. [1]
    Crash & Bernstein (television) - D23
    Living in a house full of girls, Wyatt desperately wishes for a brother with whom he can do fun guy stuff and provide much needed male reinforcement.<|control11|><|separator|>
  2. [2]
    Crash & Bernstein (a Titles & Air Dates Guide) - Epguides.com
    Jan 10, 2024 · Episode list & details from: TVmaze •. TV.com. Episode #, Original Air Date, Titles. Season 1. 1. 1-1, 08 Oct 12, Crash Lands. 2. 1-2, 15 Oct 12 ...
  3. [3]
    Crash & Bernstein | Rotten Tomatoes
    Synopsis Wyatt Bernstein is a 12-year-old boy who is surrounded by females -- including older sisters Amanda and Cleo, younger sister Jasmine and mom Mel. Wyatt ...
  4. [4]
    Crash & Bernstein TV Review | Common Sense Media
    Rating 3.0 · Review by Emily AshbyParents need to know that Crash & Bernstein is a sitcom centering on the relationship between a 12-year-old boy and his new puppet surrogate brother with ...
  5. [5]
    Crash & Bernstein (TV Series 2012–2014) - IMDb
    Rating 5.2/10 (990) Wyatt Bernstein is a typical boy who enjoys hanging out at the local arcade with his friend Pesto.Full cast & crew · User reviews · Episode list · Crash & Bernstein
  6. [6]
    Crash & Bernstein - Where to Watch and Stream - TV Guide
    Together, the new brothers help each other navigate life's experiences: Crash helps Wyatt come out of his shell, and Wyatt introduces Crash to life as a kid.
  7. [7]
    Disney Announces 'Crash & Bernstein' Premiere
    Aug 30, 2012 · A “bro-comedy” that follows Wyatt Bernstein, the only son among four kids, whose new puppet, Crash, comes to life and becomes his loud-mouthed surrogate ...
  8. [8]
    Disney XD Greenlights Live-Action/Puppet Comedy Series 'Crash ...
    Apr 11, 2012 · The multicamera show, created by Eric Friedman (Disney XD's I'm In The Band), centers on 14-year-old Wyatt Bernstein, the only son among four ...
  9. [9]
    Watch Crash & Bernstein | Full Episodes | Disney+
    GET DISNEY+. Crash & Bernstein. TV-Y7 Subtitles / CC. 2012 - 20132 Seasons. ComedyFantasy. Disney+ hulu. Starting at $12.99/mo. SELECT.
  10. [10]
    Disney XD to premiere Crash & Bernstein this February
    Jan 11, 2013 · Together the new "brothers" help each other navigate life's experiences - Crash helps Wyatt come out of his shell and Wyatt introduces Crash to ...
  11. [11]
    Clip - Parade Crasher - Crash & Bernstein - Disney XD Official
    Apr 15, 2013 · The Portland Day Parade is coming to Portland. Watch Crash & Bernstein on Disney XD!Missing: set Oregon
  12. [12]
    Producer Eric Friedman Inks Overall Deal With Disney Channel
    Nov 16, 2018 · He created and executive-produced Disney XD's Crash and Bernstein and was a writer on Disney Channel's Austin & Ally and the animated series ...
  13. [13]
    Where Flesh Meets Felt: The Story Of "Crash &amp; Bernstein"
    An interview with Executive Producer/Creator Eric Friedman and Puppeteer Tim Lagasse ... Eric Friedman has straddled the world of offbeat entertainment and young ...
  14. [14]
    Crash & Bernstein (TV Series 2012–2014) - Company credits - IMDb
    Production Companies · It's a Laugh Productions ; Distributors · Disney Channel. (Germany, 2014)(TV). Disney XD. (Germany, 2013)(TV). Disney XD. (Turkey, 2013)(TV).
  15. [15]
    Disney XD orders new live-action/puppet comedy - Kidscreen
    Disney XD has ordered Crash & Bernstein, a new comedy series blending live-action and puppetry that heads into production in Hollywood next month.Missing: development began
  16. [16]
    Tim Lagasse - IMDb
    A "Sesame Street" alumnus, Lagasse designs, builds, and performs all forms of puppets. A series of short puppet films he created for the PBS children's series " ...
  17. [17]
    Disney XD's 'Crash & Bernstein' Renewed For Second Season
    Apr 15, 2013 · Disney XD's breakout comedy Crash & Bernstein has been picked up for a second season. Production will resume in Van Nuys, California in July ...
  18. [18]
    Disney XD Renews 'Crash' (EXCLUSIVE) - Variety
    Apr 15, 2013 · Disney XD has renewed comedy series “Crash & Bernstein” for a second season, with an eye toward a fall return.
  19. [19]
    Crash & Bernstein (TV Series 2012–2014) - Full cast & crew - IMDb
    Writers. Edit · Eric Friedman · Eric Friedman. creator. 27 episodes • 2012–2014 ... co-executive producer / executive producer. 37 episodes • 2012–2014. Steve ...
  20. [20]
    Crash & Bernstein (TV Show) - Behind The Voice Actors
    Tim Lagasse is the voice of Crash in Crash & Bernstein, and Setsuji Sato is the Japanese voice.Missing: puppet | Show results with:puppet
  21. [21]
    Crash & Bernstein - Full Cast & Crew - TV Guide
    Learn more about the full cast of Crash & Bernstein with news, photos, videos and more at TV Guide. ... Writer. 1 Credit. Eric Friedman. Actor. 20 Credits. Cole ...
  22. [22]
    Disney XD's 'Crash & Bernstein' Sets Season 2 Return (Exclusive)
    Aug 28, 2013 · Disney XD has set a premiere date for Crash & Bernstein. The half-hour comedy returns for its sophomore season Monday, Oct. 7, at 7:30 pm.
  23. [23]
    Crash & Bernstein (TV Series 2012-2014) - TMDB
    Rating 7.8/10 (38) Mary Birdsong as Mel Bernstein. Mary Birdsong. Mel Bernstein. 19 Episodes ... Season 2 of Crash & Bernstein premiered on October 7, 2013. Double Header.
  24. [24]
    https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2273734/episodes/?season=1
  25. [25]
    "Crash & Bernstein" Crash Lands (TV Episode 2012) - IMDb
    Rating 7.7/10 (39) Crash Lands: Directed by Bruce Leddy. With Cole Jensen, Tim Lagasse, Landry Bender, Mary Birdsong. Wyatt Bernstein is taken to a Build-A-Bestie.Missing: pilot | Show results with:pilot
  26. [26]
    Crash & Bernstein (Series) - TV Tropes
    The series centers around a teenaged boy named Wyatt Bernstein (Cole Jensen) who, having three sisters, wishes to have a brother.
  27. [27]
    Crash & Bernstein (TV Series 2012–2014) - Episode list - IMDb
    S2.E1 ∙ The Nosejob Job · S2.E2 ∙ Health-o-ween · S2.E3 ∙ Crash Is Having a Baby · S2.E4 ∙ Escape from Bigfoot Island · S2.E5 ∙ Frat Chance · S2.E6 ∙ Action Zero · S2 ...
  28. [28]
    https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/46697-crash-bernstein/season/2
  29. [29]
    Crash & Bernstein: Season 2, Episode 8 | Rotten Tomatoes
    As Hanukkah approaches, the Bernstein family teaches Crash the traditions of the holiday and explains that different cultures celebrate various holidays in many ...Missing: notable special
  30. [30]
    "Crash & Bernstein" Double Header (TV Episode 2014) - IMDb
    Rating 6.6/10 (21) Double Header: Directed by Marian Deaton. With Landry Bender, Oana Gregory, Cole Jensen, Tim Lagasse. The boys set out to pop Crash's giant pimple, ...
  31. [31]
    Review: Crash and Bernstein - "Double Header" - Bubbleblabber
    Aug 12, 2014 · When Crash and Tucker start fighting over their body, Wyatt suggests that everyone starts insulting Tucker. Of course, since most people hate ...Missing: finale plot
  32. [32]
    Exclusive: Disney XD Announces Premiere Date for Crash & Bernstein
    Aug 29, 2012 · Earlier this month, Disney XD announced plans to air Crash & Bernstein, a buddy comedy that will combine live-action and puppetry. Now, the show ...
  33. [33]
    Crash & Bernstein
    ### Summary of Crash & Bernstein U.S. Broadcast Details
  34. [34]
    Season One Review: Crash and Bernstein - Bubbleblabber
    Aug 30, 2013 · The main drawbacks of the series really are the poorly-written dialogue, tired story lines, and Aaron Landon as 'Pesto'.
  35. [35]
    Crash & Bernstein: Season Two for Disney XD Series
    Apr 15, 2013 · ... April 15, 2013. CRASH & BERNSTEIN Disney XD has renewed their Crash & Bernstein sitcom for a second season. Production on the new episodes ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  36. [36]
    Disney XD Launches “Non-Stop Summer” June 17 With Premieres ...
    via Disney XD press release: DISNEY XD ... Crash & Bernstein” and “Lab Rats.” Additionally ... nose at DisneyXD.com/Crash beginning Monday, July 29.
  37. [37]
    https://www.bubbleblabber.com/2013/08/season-one-review-crash-bernstein/
  38. [38]
    Disney XD's CRASH & BERNSTEIN Returns for Second Season ...
    In celebration of the season two premiere, HYPERLINK "http://www.DisneyXD.com" DisneyXD.com will launch the new game "Crash & Bernstein: Cluck n' Chuck ...
  39. [39]
    Disney XD's 'Crash & Bernstein' Returns for Second Season in ...
    Sep 4, 2013 · As part of the season two premiere celebration, DisneyXD.com is launching the “Crash & Bernstein: Cluck n' Chuck” game where fans – playing ...
  40. [40]
    Crash & Bernstein | Disney XD
    Explore the Crash & Bernstein site for games, full-length TV episodes, videos, characters, pictures, hidden surprises and more.<|control11|><|separator|>
  41. [41]
    Celebrity Take with Jake: On the Set of Crash and Bernstein
    Radio Disney's Jake visits the set of new Disney XD series Crash and Bernstein to get the scoop on the show's premiere season!
  42. [42]
    Disney XD Orders Comedy Pilot 'Commando Crash' - Deadline
    Jul 10, 2014 · Crash & Bernstein creator, Emmy-nommed Eric Friedman (Austin & Ally, I'm In The Band) penned the pilot and executive produces along with Jim ...
  43. [43]
    https://video.disney.com/watch/disneyxd-on-the-set-of-crash-and-bernstein-4cb922c989435f04f53fd3e2