G’day, viewers! CBC, Canada’s cultural powerhouse, is making waves down under with a selection of shows that’ll have you hooked. Whether you’re diving into the political drama of The Border or enjoying the delightful charm of Workin’ Moms, CBC offers a unique blend of storytelling that resonates with the viewers spirit. Join the growing community of Aussie CBC fans and explore the best of Canadian television. It’s time to embrace the diverse stories and relatable humour that make CBC best shows so special.
Why are the best shows on CBC considered best?
What sets CBC’s best shows apart from the rest? It’s a combination of IMDb’s popularity rankings and stellar ratings that makes these series truly exceptional. By sorting shows based on IMDb’s popularity metrics, CBC ensures that you’re always tuning in to what’s hot and trending. But it’s not just about popularity; it’s about quality too. These shows have earned their IMDb acclaim through outstanding storytelling, stellar performances, and top-notch production values. So, when you watch CBC in Australia, you’re guaranteed a TV experience that’s not just popular, but also immensely satisfying.
1. Malory Towers (2020- Ongoing)
- IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
- Genre: Drama, Family
- Stars: Ella Bright, Jennifer Wigmore
- Runtime: 27m/episode
Malory Towers is a drama and family series based on Enid Blyton’s classic novels. The show is set in an all-girls boarding school and focuses on the adventures and friendships of the students. Beloved scenes often revolve around the camaraderie among the girls and their school activities. While the series may not have traditional plot twists, it features heart-warming moments and life lessons as the characters grow and learn. The show is also available to watch on ABC iView in Australia. You can also gain access to some of the best movies on ABC iView, if you subscribe to the platform.
2. Manayek (2020- Ongoing)
- IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Stars: Elham Ali, Ahmed Amin
- Runtime: 1h/episode
Manayek is a crime drama and mystery series that follows the investigations of Dr. Adam, a forensic doctor. The show combines elements of medical forensics and crime-solving. Beloved scenes often involve the intriguing forensic work and Dr. Adam’s dedication to solving crimes. In crime dramas like this, plot twists typically arise from the complex cases Dr. Adam encounters, with each episode presenting a new mystery to solve. You can also enjoy the show on SBS On Demand in Australia.
3. Bad Banks (2018- 2020)
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Stars: Paula Beer, Barry Atsma
- Runtime: 52 minutes/episode
Bad Banks is a crime drama and thriller series that explores the world of high finance and corporate espionage. The show is known for its tense and suspenseful atmosphere. Beloved scenes often involve the power struggles and moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Major plot twists in Bad Banks revolve around financial intrigue and the ruthlessness of the corporate world, creating a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on edge. The show is also available to watch on Hulu platform. Moreover, you can gain access to some of the best shows on Hulu, if you subscribe to the platform.
4. Nirvanna the Band the Show (2016- Ongoing)
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
- Genre: Comedy
- Stars: Jay McCarrol, Matt Johnson
- Runtime: 23 minutes/episode
Nirvanna the Band the Show is a comedy series that follows the misadventures of two friends, Matt and Jay, as they try to achieve their dream of getting a gig at a famous Toronto nightclub. The show is known for its unique blend of scripted comedy and real-life interactions with unsuspecting people on the streets of Toronto. Beloved scenes often involve the hilarious and sometimes awkward encounters Matt and Jay have with the public. While there may not be traditional plot twists, each episode is filled with unexpected and comedic situations.
5. Hudson (2019- Ongoing)
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- Stars: Felicity Huffman, John Bedford Lloyd
- Runtime: 30 minutes/episode
Hudson is a comedy-drama series that revolves around the life of Hudson, a charming and unconventional private investigator. The show combines humour with elements of mystery-solving. Beloved scenes often feature Hudson’s witty and unorthodox approach to solving cases. Plot twists in Hudson typically arise from the various mysteries and cases he takes on, making each episode a delightful puzzle to unravel.
6. Workin’ Moms (2017- 2023)
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
- Genre: Comedy
- Stars: Catherine Reitman, Dani Kind
- Runtime: 30m/episode
Workin’ Moms is a comedy series that delves into the lives of four friends who are trying to balance their careers with the challenges of motherhood. The show’s humor and authenticity make it relatable to many. Beloved scenes often involve the characters’ witty banter and candid discussions about the highs and lows of parenting. One significant plot twist occurs when one of the main characters faces a career-changing decision in Season 4, and the repercussions ripple through the group of friends. Moreover, the show is also available to watch on Netflix platform in Australia. You can also gain access to American Netflix in Australia, with some very basic steps.
7. Murdoch Mysteries (2008- Ongoing)
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Stars: Yannick Bisson, Thomas Craig
- Runtime: 48 minutes/episode
Murdoch Mysteries is a long-running Canadian crime drama series set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The show follows Detective William Murdoch as he solves complex murder cases using innovative forensic techniques. Beloved scenes often revolve around the historical backdrop, Victorian-era technology, and Murdoch’s ingenious crime-solving methods. Major plot twists in the series frequently come from the intricate murder mysteries and character developments, keeping viewers engaged over multiple seasons. The show is also available to watch on various platforms in Australia, including AMC+, Acorn TV and 7Plus.
8. Kim’s Convenience (2016- 2021)
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
- Genre: Comedy
- Stars: Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, Jean Yoon
- Runtime: 22 minutes/episode
Kim’s Convenience is a beloved comedy series that revolves around the Kim family, who run a convenience store in Toronto. The show is known for its humor, heart-warming family dynamics, and cultural insights. Beloved scenes often involve the interactions between family members and their customers. While the show doesn’t have dramatic plot twists, it explores relatable themes of family, identity, and cultural clashes. The series is also available to watch on Netflix and SBS On Demand in Australia.
9. Schitt’s Creek (2015- 2020)
- IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
- Genre: Comedy
- Stars: Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara
- Runtime: 22m/episode
Schitt’s Creek is a heart-warming comedy series that follows the wealthy Rose family as they lose their fortune and are forced to live in the quirky town of Schitt’s Creek. The show is filled with humorous and touching moments, but one of the most beloved scenes is the slow-burning romance between David Rose (Dan Levy) and Patrick Brewer (Noah Reid), culminating in their heartfelt wedding in the series finale. Throughout the show, the characters’ growth and change make for a delightful journey. You can also fetch the show on Netflix, if you wish to watch the show on the go!
10. Anne With An E (2017- 2019)
- IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
- Genre: Drama, Family
- Stars: Amybeth McNulty, Geraldine James
- Runtime: 44 minutes/episode
Anne With An E is a coming-of-age drama series based on the classic novel “Anne of Green Gables.” The show follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, a spirited orphan, as she grows up on Prince Edward Island. Beloved scenes often revolve around Anne’s vivid imagination, her friendships, and her struggles for acceptance. While the series stays true to the source material, it also introduces new elements and character developments, providing fresh perspectives on Anne’s journey. Moreover, you can also access the show conveniently on Netflix platform in Australia.
Our top recommendations!
If you’re looking for more entertainment beyond the shows we’ve mentioned, we recommend exploring some additional popular CBC shows that are currently making waves. You can find these recommendations on JustWatch.com’s popular show list, which offers a curated selection of top-rated series.
| Show | IMDb Rating | Release Year Till |
|---|---|---|
| Happy Valley | 8.5/10 | 2014- 2023 |
| Call the Midwife | 8.6/10 | 2012- Ongoing |
| Normal People | 8.4/10 | 2020 |
| Frankie Drake Mysteries | 6.8/10 | 2017- 2021 |
| Luther | 8.4/10 | 2010- 2019 |
| The Great British Bake Off | 8.6/10 | 2010- Ongoing |
| The Tudors | 8.1/10 | 2007- 2010 |
| The Office | 9.0/10 | 2005- 2013 |
| The Great Canadian Baking Show | 7.6/10 | 2017- Ongoing |
| The Missing | 8.2/10 | 2014- 2016 |
| Out House | 6.3/10 | 2022 |
| The Ex-Wife | 6.4/10 | 2022 |
Rounding up!
Dear Australian friends, we know you have a deep appreciation for great storytelling, and CBC best shows have something special to offer. From the heart-warming Schitt’s Creek, where you’ll join the Roses on their journey to rebuild their lives, to the thrilling Burden of Truth, which unveils gripping legal mysteries, CBC’s shows are a delightful addition to your watchlist. These stories resonate with universal themes while offering a unique perspective. Dive in, explore, and savour the stories that bridge the gap between our nations.
