When it comes to covering streaming titles, Canada often gets the short end of the stick. This is evident when you get the news that a classic TV series you love is finally going to be available on streaming, only to learn it is US-only. For me, always writing about media, I have gotten used to always navigating that caveat and to double-checking availability up here for the Great White North when streaming news drops.
At the same time, this is why Crave has become one of the best streaming services in Canada: it is unique to the country and draws from both Canadian programming and HBO titles. Here, it is great to catch up on the latest addictive reality TV series, tune in for some Canadian-centric humor, then move to binge-watching some prestige TV from the States. Still, it can all be overwhelming to navigate the massive Crave catalog, so we have put together the best shows you will find on the streaming platform, all in one place.
'Resident Alien' (2021–25)
Harry Vanderspeigle is hiding the fact that he is an alien, having previously crash-landed on Earth and assuming the identity of the local doctor he accidentally killed. Landing in a small Colorado town, Harry's initial goal is to bring an end to humanity, but as he gets to know those around him, he begins to develop empathy for Earthlings.
Fan favorite Alan Tudyk gives his best performance to date in this series that perfectly blends dark humor, sci-fi, and heartfelt observations of what it means to be human. While developing a cult following, Resident Alien would end up facing various challenges, which ultimately led to its cancellation after the fourth season. Thankfully, fans of inventive and quirky sci-fi can catch all seasons on Crave.
'True Blood' (2008–14)
Set in the fictional small town of Bon Temps, Louisiana, True Blood follows waitress Sookie Stackhouse, whose power to read minds slowly draws her into the supernatural world, including Bill Compton, with whom she falls in love. Across 81 episodes and seven seasons, True Blood would explore various plotlines, blending romance, horror, and mystery to the appreciation of a fervent fanbase.
True Blood does an exceptional job of world-building over 7 seasons, even if it falters a little near the end. Starting as a straightforward romance story, familiar characters evolve, while new ones are introduced, making a single chance meeting at a small diner in the South the spark that has global effects. A phenomenal cast (including an earlier role for Alexander Skarsgård), and lots of twists and turns, kept the series exciting until its finale in 2014.
'The Trades' (2024–)
Set in a small-town Canadian refinery, The Trades centers on Todd Stool (Robb Wells), a pipefitter itching for a promotion and a better life. Yet when a shake-up sees his ambitions to become a manager fall flat, he has to contend with a new boss he resents. At the same time, Todd's sister, Audrey (Anastasia Phillips), navigates her own struggles as a carpenter.
Canadian content at its finest, The Trades takes a down-to-earth approach in exploring the challenges of the working class. Of course, it does not hurt that the authentic, heartfelt approach to capturing blue-collar life also captures the workplace tomfoolery and the camaraderie that comes with it. The cast also includes Canadian staples, making Crave the perfect home for the comedy series.
'House of the Dragon' (2022–)
Taking place approximately 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, House of Dragons follows the conflict known as the “Dance of the Dragons.” It begins with King Viserys I naming his daughter, Rhaenyra Targaryen, as heir, sparking internal conflict in the kingdom that leads to a violent, bloody civil war for the Iron Throne.
Serving as a prequel to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon had some pretty big shoes to fill, and there was much discussion around its release, especially as it would be competing with Prime Video's Lord of the Rings series; I think we all know who won that one. Indeed, the series successfully carried on the legacy of its inspiration, rich with fascinating characters, polished production values, thick with political intrigue, and plenty of violence; fantasy TV at its best.
'Buffy The Vampire Slayer' (1997–2003)
Buffy Summers, a seemingly average teenage girl, discovers she's the latest in a line of chosen "Slayers," destined to battle vampires and other demonic entities as humanity's savior. Under the tutelage of her mentor and with her group of tight-knit friends, Buffy battles various threats across the show's seven seasons.
With Buffy the Vampire Slayer getting rebooted, the popularity of the original on streaming is only certain to increase. Of course, it is not all just hype building up to something new, as the original series was a landmark in television, blending horror, action, and romance in a way that would set the groundwork for countless impersonators, some good, some bad. 144 episodes of content may seem like a lot, but once you dig in, the show is very addictive.
'Hacks' (2021–)
Taking audiences to the world of stand-up comedy, Hacks follows Deborah Vance, a seasoned veteran struggling to stay relevant. When her residency at the Palmetto Casino is threatened, she resentfully takes on a young comedy writer, Ava, to help her reinvent her act. The two have vastly different personalities, and it takes quite some time for them to see eye to eye.
Filled with biting humor and poignant insights, Hacks is a brilliant and character-driven comedy series. The highlight of the series is the dynamic between the quick-witted and jaded Deborah (played by Jean Smart) and the cynical yet vulnerable Ava (played by Hannah Einbinder). They’re a delight to watch as they seamlessly combine hilarious quips with heartfelt moments of self-reflection. The show spans four seasons, with a fifth in the works, and each season holds a near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score.
'The Sopranos' (1999–2007)
Created by David Chase, The Sopranos is one of the most influential crime dramas of all time. It centers on Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss who struggles to balance the demands of his criminal empire with the dysfunction in his family life. As he navigates his risky world, Tony faces betrayal and power plays. The only consolation he finds from his internal and external demons is through his therapy sessions with psychiatrist Jennifer Melfi.
The show changed the television landscape forever. It left an indelible mark on the industry with its outstanding character development, nuanced portrayal of morals, and glorious visual style. It’s a cultural touchstone of sorts. Chase dives deep into Tony’s psyche, painting him as both a protagonist and antagonist. The ensemble cast, led by James Gandolfini, delivers a career-defining performance and brings the rich story to authentic life.
'Suits' (2011–2019)
A highly addictive and stylish legal drama, Suits follows Mike Ross, a brilliant law school dropout who lands a coveted job with one of New York City’s top law firms, despite not having a degree, after he impresses the top-notch closer, Harvey Specter. The two form an exceptional team and together navigate the treacherous world of legal cases, office politics, and personal dilemmas, all while hiding the truth about Mike’s education.
Suits is a very entertaining drama. With its sharp dialogue, clever plot twists, and magnetic rapport between the lead characters, played by Patrick J. Adams and Gabriel Macht, the show creates a sleek and unparalleled viewing experience. Aaron Korsh created it, and each episode combines the high stakes of legal battles with rich character development in a glamorous and gritty way. The series ran for nine seasons and received positive reviews throughout. It has two spin-offs: the short-lived Pearson and Suits: L.A.
'Euphoria' (2019–)
Euphoria chronicles the disoriented but relatable lives of high school students. At the center is Rue Bennett, a complex and troubled teenager struggling with drug addiction and recovery following the traumatizing death of her father. The show also delves into how her journey intertwines with that of her peers, who are each grappling with their struggles and desires around love, identity, trauma, addiction, and self-discovery.
Nothing short of a transformation in recent television, Euphoria stuns all with its bold visuals and unapologetic storytelling. It is created by Sam Levinson, who does not shy away from exploring subjects like social media and mental health, and how they affect an individual’s sense of belonging in a hyperconnected world. The show is led by Zendaya, who won two Emmy Awards for her powerful, raw, and heart-wrenching performance as Rue. While the show sparked controversy, it was praised for its honesty and has fans eagerly waiting for a third season.
'The White Lotus' (2021–)
Intended as a limited series, The White Lotus became so popular that it evolved into an anthology. Each season is set in a different resort destination with a new cast (though there are some returning characters) and follows the antics of the well-to-do guests. Each season begins with the tragic death of an undisclosed guest, then goes back in time, so fans see the story from the beginning. Beyond the murder, there's so much else happening, from a newlywed couple in turmoil and a hotel manager on the brink of a breakdown in Season 1 to a lonely woman trying to navigate her new relationship and a complicated foursome of friends in Season 2.
The White Lotus shines as one of the best new shows of the decade. The series has earned 15 Primetime Emmy Awards, largely thanks to the clever storytelling and fantastic acting. The luscious vistas in each season, including Maui and Sicily, thus far, make the dark comedy-drama a sight to behold as well. The series has a knack for presenting characters that fans want to be sympathetic to and others that are downright atrocious.
