When the common British mystery shows and more unexplored offerings from Italy, Japan, Mexico, Ireland, New Zealand, Wales, Scotland, Germany, France, and all the Nordic countries don't seem to excite you anymore, why not turn your eye to something a little closer to home? Canada might not be the most exotic locale, but don't let their friendly reputation fool you—they have some of the most gripping crime dramas on TV.
In the mood for something historical? Maybe something chock-full of high stakes thrills? We've got you covered. Here are seven Canadian crime dramas you can stream tonight on Hulu, Amazon Prime, Paramount+, and Apple TV!
Cardinal
Set in the fictional Canadian city of Algonquin Bay, Cardinal is based off a series of novels by author Giles Blunt. The series follows police detective John Cardinal (Billy Campbell) and his partner, Lise Delorme (Karine Vanasse) as they investigate violent and disturbing crimes. As the tensions of their cases unfold, Cardinal pushes forward to make amends for his own past wrongs.
Running from 2017 to 2020, this series consists of four seasons and 24 episodes. Enjoy it now on Hulu!
Coroner
Based on the Jenny Cooper book series by M. R. Hall, this show is centered on the recently widowed Dr. Jenny Cooper (Serinda Swan). As a newly appointed coroner in Toronto, it's up to her to find the answers behind a string of mysterious deaths in the city.
Currently, there are four seasons and 38 episodes. As Swan decided to step away from the series in mid-2022, options are being discussed for the future of the show. Stream now with a premium Hulu subscription!
Motive
This police procedural is set in Vancouver, British Columbia. At the forefront is Angie Flynn (Kristin Lehman), a homicide detective and single mother. As she and her partner, Detective Oscar Vega (Louis Ferreira) hunt down cunning killers, the audience already knows the culprit and the victim. This reverse whodunnit focuses on the investigation, the cover up, and the events leading up to the murder.
This four-seasons series ran from 2013 to 2016 and consists of 52 episodes. Stream now on Amazon Prime with Freevee!
King
King is set in Toronto and follows veteran police officer Jessica King (Amy Price-Francis). When her boss has a televised breakdown, King finds herself promoted to the head of the Major Crimes Task Force. Though her personal life can be a mess, she's determined to prove she's the best cop in town.
With two seasons and 21 episodes, this series is available now on Amazon Prime with Freevee!
Frankie Drake Mysteries
Set in 1920s Toronto, this series focuses on the city's only all-female detective agency. Frankie Drake (Lauren Lee Smith) herself takes center stage, alongside her partner Trudy Clarke (Chantel Riley). As these women probe into tough cases, they face off against flyboys, gangsters, rum-runners, and speakeasies.
This show ran from 2017 to 2021, racking up 41 episodes across four seasons. Stream it now on Amazon Prime with PBS Masterpiece!
Flashpoint
This series is inspired by the real-life Emergency Task Force of Toronto. An elite group of cops—the fictional Strategic Response Unit—must resolve extreme and intense conflicts that ordinary officers aren't capable of handling. The outcomes of hostage situations, bomb threats, and armed criminals are decided by split-second decisions.
This popular show ran from 2008 to 2012, consisting of five seasons and 75 episodes. The series is available to stream now on Paramount+!
Endgame
After the tragic death of his fiancée, chess master Arkady Balagan (Shawn Doyle) has developed agoraphobia and become a self-imposed prisoner of a luxury hotel in Vancouver. When financial pressure is applied, Balagan uses his brilliant mind and analytical skills to solve crimes. Terrified to step outside, he relies on a group of hotel employees and fanatics to do his legwork.
This unique series only ran for one season and 13 episodes. Stream it now on Apple TV!
