Canadian TV doesn’t usually get the same spotlight as its American counterpart, but over the years, plenty of homegrown shows have left a real mark — from the charm of Corner Gas to the global success of Schitt’s Creek. And while some series wrapped up neatly on their own terms, others disappeared from our screens way too early.
With that in mind, we recently asked MTL Blog readers on Facebook to name a Canadian series they wish had never been cancelled. As hundreds of nostalgic comments came pouring in, it became clear that plenty of viewers are still missing some favourites.
Here are nine Canadian shows that didn’t get the goodbye they deserved, according to the people that watched them.
Kim’s Convenience (2016–2021)
We got a ton of comments regarding this heartfelt comedy about a Korean-Canadian family running a Toronto convenience store.
While not officially “cancelled,” the CBC show ended after five seasons in 2021 when its creators stepped away, but many fans felt it still had more stories to tell.
So You Think You Can Dance Canada (2008–2011)
This high-energy spin-off of the U.S. hit gave Canadian dancers a national stage and pulled in big viewership in its early seasons. Despite its popularity, the show was cancelled by CTV in 2011 after four seasons due to declining ratings and shifting network priorities.
Anne with an E (2017–2019)
A darker, more modern take on Anne of Green Gables, this Netflix and CBC co-production drew international fans. It was cancelled in 2019 after just three seasons, sparking a massive online debate
Big Wolf on Campus (1999–2002)
A supernatural comedy about a teenage werewolf protecting his town. What’s not to love?
Though it ran for three seasons on YTV and Fox Family, fans were left howling when it wasn’t renewed.
The Listener (2009–2014)
This CTV drama followed a paramedic with telepathic powers who used his abilities to solve crimes. It built a loyal fanbase in Canada and abroad, but after five seasons, CTV announced its cancellation.
ReBoot (1994–2001)
One of the first fully computer-animated shows on TV, ReBoot was set inside a digital world and became a cult favourite for its clever writing and ahead-of-its-time visuals. Unfortunately, the series ended on a major cliffhanger. In a later interview, co-creator Gavin Blair confirmed they knew cancellation was coming, which forced last-minute story changes and left a lot unresolved.
Yvon of the Yukon (2000–2005)
A quirky animated comedy about a 17th-century French explorer thawed in modern-day Yukon territory, Yvon of the Yukon ran for three seasons and 52 episodes. Its final episode aired in January 2004, and the series officially ended that year after YTV chose not to renew it.
Canadian Idol (2003–2008)
Our version of the global singing competition aired for six seasons and helped launch the careers of artists like Jacob Hoggard and Kalan Porter. CTV pulled the plug on it in 2009, citing financial reasons.
SCTV (1976–1984)
One of Canada’s most influential comedy exports, SCTV helped launch the careers of John Candy, Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short, Eugene Levy, and more. Set in the fictional world of a struggling TV station, the sketch comedy series ran for six seasons across multiple networks and production partners.
Despite its cult status and U.S. pickup by NBC, the show eventually ended in 1984 after moving to cable.
