Introduction

The relationship between American and Canadian TV shows is closer than ever, with the two countries sharing a mutual love for popular television programming. Despite Canada having its own broadcasting councils and networks, the preference for American shows remains strong. This article explores the TV shows that Canadians enjoy, particularly those similar to American favorites.

Understanding the Shared Viewing Habits

In the realm of television, the United States and Canada maintain a close connection. This can largely be attributed to their shared language, cultural ties, and geographic proximity. Consequently, the TV viewing habits of Canadians often mirror those of their American counterparts. Reports on domestic viewership in the US frequently include Canadian viewership numbers, and the success of American films often includes box office revenues from Canada.

It is worth noting that the line between Canadian and American entertainment is often blurred. The Canadian Film or Television Program Production Tax Credit, as well as the integration of Canadian talent into mainstream Hollywood, has led to Canada being considered part of the USA entertainment landscape.

My Personal Viewing Experiences in 2018

Allow me to share some insights from my own television viewing habits during the fall of 2018. Here is a typical week of what I watched:

Monday

Murdoch Mysteries - CBC Frankie Drake Murder Mysteries - CBC

Murdoch Mysteries and Frankie Drake Murder Mysteries are two popular Canadian TV series that offer a blend of mystery and crime investigations. They are known for their captivating storylines and production values, making them a favorite among Canadian viewers.

Tuesday

Still Standing - CBC 22 Minutes - CBS Baroness von Sketch - CBC

Still Standing is a comedy series that revolves around a multicultural family's struggles and triumphs. 22 Minutes, produced by CBC, is a satirical news program that often leads to outfitting great laughs. Baroness von Sketch is a comedy sketch show known for its comedy sketches featuring a diverse cast of actors.

Thursday

The Big Bang Theory - CBS Young Sheldon - CBS Moms - CBS Murphy Brown - CBS

Continuing with the American shows, The Big Bang Theory is a beloved sitcom centered around a group of scientists and their unconventional lives. Young Sheldon is a spin-off of The Big Bang Theory, focusing on the younger life of the main character. Moms, on the other hand, is a more realistic comedy series that explores the lives of mothers of teen and young adult children. Murphy Brown, a long-standing CBS drama, deals with the personal and professional challenges of a newscaster in a fictional television network.

Saturday

Saturday Night Live - NBC

Saturday Night Live is a popular American sketch comedy show that brings together a mix of talented actors and comedians. It has been a staple in the American television landscape for decades, and its popularity has also been felt in Canada.

Sunday

The Simpsons - Fox Bob's Burgers - Fox Family Guy - Fox

For animated shows, The Simpsons, Bob's Burgers, and Family Guy are beloved series that provide a mix of laughs and entertainment. If no new episodes of these shows were airing, I would opt to watch Columbo, a classic crime drama series known for its mystery and suspense.

The Role of Canadian Networks

It's important to mention that my television viewing habits are slightly different from the norm for Canadians. Many Canadians tend to watch exclusively American programs, with the major US networks being readily available on cable. However, with the rise of streaming services and the popularity of Canadian programs, the landscape is changing. CBC, for example, has become a significant player in the Canadian television market, offering a wide range of compelling programs that often match the quality and entertainment value of their American counterparts.

Although I watch a higher percentage of CBC shows, it is vital to recognize the ongoing shift in Canadian viewing habits. Streaming services such as Netflix, Crave, and ShpenTV have contributed to the diversification of the shows Canadians watch, paving the way for a more diverse and engaged viewing audience.

Conclusion

The relationship between American and Canadian TV shows is rich and complex. While many Canadians enjoy American shows as much as their American counterparts, it is fascinating to see how Canadian networks and programs are becoming an integral part of the entertainment landscape for Canadians. By examining viewing habits and preferences, we can better understand the cultural and entertainment ties that bind the United States and Canada.

Competencies and Resources

For more information on this topic, you can consult reports from reputable sources such as Netflix’s quarterly earnings reports, which often include data on international viewership, or Canadian government data on broadcasting trends. Additionally, resources like the Canadian Television Production Fund (CTPF) can provide insights into the production and distribution of Canadian content.