UPFRONTS 2021: CBC UNVEILED NEXT SEASON’S NEW AND RETURNING SERIES

CBC presented its new and returning titles, its fall television and streaming schedule, and 2021-22 programming slate for CBC TV and CBC Gem at this year’s virtual 2021 Upfront event yesterday. The network revealed plans to air over 35 new and returning original series from Canadian creators, producers, and storytellers across all genres. “As we look ahead to a new broadcast year, we remain focused on serving all Canadians by delivering what no other media company in Canada can offer all in one place: the essential information audiences rely on each and every day, and authentic, engaging entertainment that reflects the diverse, fascinating spirit of our country,” said Barbara Williams, Executive Vice-President, CBC.

The 30-minute presentation featured discussions with co-creators and showrunners for series such as, and several trailers belonging to some of the titles that will air this Fall. The network has seen a significant increase in CBC network viewership from people between the ages of 25 and 54, and a drastic monthly reach and time spent on its CBC news app following the launch of “CBC News Live,” “Rosemary Garden Live” and its most recent weeknight news show, “Canada Tonight,” which goes beyond the news of the day and delves deeper into stories in various Canadian communities. The event featured the show’s host Ginella Massa. The new show has received positive feedback. "Every night we work hard to live up to the show’s mandate to reflect contemporary Canada in all of its diversity, going beyond the headlines and telling the stories of communities that aren't often seen or heard from,” Massa said.

This season, Canada's national broadcaster is prioritizing content that showcases underrepresented groups across the country and significant occurrences related to Canadian History. “Our new slate of original programming is an embodiment of our promise to better represent and reflect more people, places, and perspectives across the country in new ways, and we look forward to sharing this remarkable range of Canadian storytelling,” said Sally Catto, General Manager, Entertainment, Factual & Sports, CBC.

With a catalog including 95% Canadian original content and a majority of new titles, the network has also achieved a filling of its programming gaps with in-demand dramas, including its first family drama “Moonshine.” The event also included a few words from the co-creators and showrunners from “The Porter.” Set to premiere in the winter, filming for the show has begun today in Winnipeg. CBC representatives also pointed out returning series “War Of The Worlds” as its most-watched series across all genres. 

CBC will once again serve as the region’s main Olympics provider, featuring two Olympics game shows in Tokyo and Beijing. This year’s programming presents advertisers with an opportunity to secure valuable slots. Over 30 million people tuned in to the previous two summer and Olympic games.  The titles that will be offered by the network include four new comedies, “Sort Of” by creators Bilal Baig and Fab Filippo, set to debut on Tues. Oct. 5 on CBC Gem and Tues. Nov. 9 on CBC TV; 8x30, Sphere Media’s Sienna Films, “Strays” by Thunderbird Entertainment, set to premier on14th September on CBC TV and CBC Gem, “Run The Burbs” by Pier 21 Films and Project 10 Productions’ “Son Of A Crutch.”  

Returning comedies and festivals include “This Hour Has 22 Minutes,” “Tallboyz,” “Workin’ Moms,” “Ha! Fax Comedy Fest.”, “This Hour Has 22 Minutes,” “The New Wave of Standup,” and “Winnipeg Comedy Festival.” Original dramas include “Coroner,” “Pretty Hard Cases,” “Murdoch Mysteries,” and “Diggstown,” among others. CBC Kids will offer “Detention Adventure,” “Ukulele U,” “Gary’s Magic Fort,” and “Big Blue,” among others. 

By Karla Florez