Every Canada Day, we raise a toast to maple syrup, Tim Hortons, and, increasingly, world-class television. Canadian TV has long been a steady undercurrent in the entertainment world, but over the past two decades, it’s broken through to mainstream American audiences with force. From grounded family dramas to outlandish comedies and gripping thrillers, these shows offer something distinct: authenticity, relatability, and just enough quirk to stand out in a crowded global market.
Here’s a look at the Canadian shows that have crossed the border and captured American hearts—plus a few newer titles well on their way.
Schitt’s Creek
This family-centered comedy felt like a warm hug from start to finish and Netflix gave it wings. When the Roses lost their fortune and landed in a rundown motel, viewers across North America were drawn in by its charm, empathy, and humour. The binge culture and viral memes fueled its popularity, culminating in a historic 2020 Emmy sweep—securing all seven major comedy awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series and acting accolades for its leads.
Letterkenny
What began as a feisty YouTube series evolved into a sharp, dialogue-heavy binge hit. Set in rural Ontario, Letterkenny thrives on quick wit, clever wordplay, and its inclusive approach to diverse topics, from Indigenous representation to drug addiction. Its distinctly Canadian humour plays well on Hulu, with American critics praising it as “marvelously goofy” and refreshingly intelligent
Degrassi: The Next Generation
Before teen dramas got gritty, Degrassi was already there. It became a U.S. staple thanks to its fearless approach to real teen issues, launching the careers of stars like Drake along the way.
Trailer Park Boys
Crude, chaotic, and completely addictive, Trailer Park Boys found cult status via Netflix. Its low-budget aesthetic only added to its authenticity, turning Sunnyvale’s misfits into unlikely folk heroes.
Orphan Black
A sci-fi thriller with a brain and a heart, Orphan Black became a critical darling on BBC America. Tatiana Maslany’s genre-defying, multi-character performance earned her an Emmy and a global fan base.
Rookie Blue
Often dubbed “Grey’s Anatomy with cops,” this procedural drama gained a loyal following on ABC. It offered emotional stakes, character depth, and a fresh take on police work from a Canadian lens.
Transplant
NBC picked up this medical drama during the pandemic, and it quickly proved it had legs. Anchored by Hamza Haq’s powerful performance as a Syrian refugee doctor navigating life in Canada, Transplant brings both urgency and emotional depth to the genre.
Kids in the Hall
This sketch comedy troupe earned a cult following in the U.S. with their original HBO run and later CBS episodes. Zany, bold, and occasionally surreal, The Kids in the Hall offered smart satire that inspired future American comedy talents. Its revival on Amazon Prime proves the original still packs a comedic punch .
Sight Unseen
Blending procedural drama with character-driven storytelling, this newer series follows a blind former detective solving crimes with the help of a virtual assistant. It’s gaining buzz for its fresh concept and emotional core.
Sullivan’s Crossing
This CTV original, now airing on The CW in the U.S., combines small-town drama, emotional healing, and romance in a style reminiscent of Virgin River. Its scenic backdrops and grounded storytelling are already winning over U.S. viewers. It doesn’t hurt that CW favourites Chad Michael Murray and Scott Patterson are two of the leads.
Wild Cards
A playful crime-solving dramedy with a con artist-meets-cop twist, Wild Cards recently landed a deal for U.S. distribution. With undeniable chemistry between its leads and clever plotting, it’s set up to be the next Canadian breakout.
SkyMed Think Grey’s Anatomy in the sky. This action-packed medical drama set in remote northern Canada delivers high-stakes rescues and complicated relationships. It’s now streaming on Paramount+, expanding its reach beyond Canada.
Why Canadian Shows Click in the U.S. Canadian television brings something refreshingly different to the table. These shows often feature: -Character-first storytelling: Less about spectacle, more about relationships, growth, and nuance. -Real-world themes: Immigration, identity, healthcare, and community are common threads, handled with care. -Humor with heart: Even in its comedies, Canadian TV tends to favor warmth over cynicism. -Cultural crossover appeal: Canadian shows keep their identity but offer universal stories that resonate anywhere.
Streaming platforms have made it easier than ever for these series to reach global audiences. And with every Schitt’s Creek or Orphan Black success, more eyes turn north in search of the next breakout.
So this Canada Day, if you’re looking to celebrate, consider binging your way through the best of Canadian TV. It’s heartfelt. It’s smart. And in many cases, it’s better than some TV shows south of the border.
Happy Canada Day and happy viewing!
