Popular Canadian Television Shows: 25 All-Time Favorites

Canada boasts a rich history of producing captivating television shows that have garnered both national and international acclaim. From heartwarming comedies to gripping dramas, these series showcase Canadian talent and storytelling at its finest. Based on a reader poll conducted by The Gate, here are 25 of the most Popular Canadian Television Shows of all time.

Spanning Genres and Eras: Canada’s Top 25 TV Shows

This list represents a diverse range of genres, from classic family favorites to groundbreaking contemporary series, reflecting the evolution of Canadian television. Shows like Schitt’s Creek have achieved global recognition, demonstrating the universal appeal of Canadian humor and storytelling. Others, like Hockey Night in Canada, are deeply ingrained in Canadian culture, representing national pastimes and shared experiences.

A Celebration of Canadian Talent: From Mr. Dressup to Schitt’s Creek

This countdown includes iconic series featuring some of Canada’s most beloved actors and comedians. The list encompasses both long-running programs that have entertained generations and newer shows that have quickly captured the hearts of viewers.

Honorable Mentions: Shows 25 – 11

These shows, while not cracking the top 10, still hold a special place in the hearts of many Canadians. Each offers unique storylines, memorable characters, and contributions to the Canadian television landscape.

• 25. The Beachcombers: This long-running drama followed the adventures of log salvagers on the British Columbia coast.

• 24. Trailer Park Boys: This mockumentary comedy series garnered a cult following for its outrageous characters and situations.

• 23. Due South: This quirky crime drama paired a Mountie with a Chicago detective, leading to humorous cultural clashes.

• 22. Degrassi Junior High: This teen drama tackled important social issues and launched the careers of many Canadian actors.

• 21. Anne of Green Gables: This classic miniseries adaptation of the beloved novel captured the spirit of Prince Edward Island.

• 20. Murdoch Mysteries: This period drama follows a detective solving crimes in Toronto at the turn of the 20th century.

• 19. The Littlest Hobo: A German Shepherd dog travels across Canada helping people in need in this heartwarming series.

• 18. Red Green Show: This sketch comedy show parodied Canadian stereotypes and DIY culture.

• 17. Kim’s Convenience: This sitcom about a Korean-Canadian family running a convenience store resonated with audiences for its humor and heartwarming moments.

• 16. Baroness Von Sketch Show: This sketch comedy series offered a witty and female-centric perspective on contemporary life.

• 15. SCTV: This groundbreaking sketch comedy show launched the careers of many comedic legends.

• 14. Fraggle Rock: This children’s show featuring Jim Henson’s Muppets explored themes of friendship and understanding.

• 13. Breakfast Television: This morning show provides news and entertainment to Canadians starting their day.

• 12. Royal Canadian Air Farce: This political satire show kept Canadians laughing for decades.

• 11. Hockey Night in Canada: This iconic broadcast is a staple of Canadian culture, bringing the excitement of hockey to viewers across the country.

Top 10 Canadian TV Shows

These shows represent the pinnacle of Canadian television, each having made a significant impact on the industry and popular culture.

• 10. The Nature of Things: This documentary series explores the wonders of the natural world, hosted by the legendary David Suzuki.

• 9. Corner Gas: This sitcom about life in a small Saskatchewan town captured the hearts of Canadians with its relatable characters and gentle humor.

• 8. Dragons’ Den: Aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of investors in this reality show.

• 7. The Kids in the Hall: This sketch comedy troupe pushed boundaries with their absurdist humor and innovative characters.

• 6. Just For Laughs: This comedy festival showcases both established and up-and-coming comedians from around the world.

• 5. Orphan Black: This sci-fi thriller starred Tatiana Maslany in multiple roles as clones, earning critical acclaim for her performance.

• 4. Mr. Dressup: This children’s show hosted by Ernie Cosell entertained and educated generations of Canadians.

• 3. Rick Mercer Report: This satirical newsmagazine show offered a humorous take on Canadian politics and culture.

• 2. This Hour Has 22 Minutes: This long-running sketch comedy show satirizes Canadian politics and current events.

• 1. Schitt’s Creek: This critically acclaimed comedy about a wealthy family who loses everything and must rebuild their lives in a small town won numerous awards and achieved international success.

The Enduring Legacy of Canadian Television

These 25 shows represent just a small sampling of the incredible talent and creativity within the Canadian television industry. They continue to entertain, inform, and inspire audiences both at home and abroad. From coast to coast, Canadian television continues to thrive, reflecting the country’s diverse voices and stories.