TORONTO – CBC Television said Thursday that it is bringing back 14 shows to its primetime schedule next season, including popular series Arctic Air, Republic of Doyle and Mr. D.
But as the national broadcaster grapples with a 10% cut in government funding, it has dropped Michael Tuesdays and Thursdays, Insecurity, and The Debaters from its lineup (Connect With Mark Kelley was axed a few weeks ago). The fate of Battle of the Blades and Cover Me Canada is unknown at this time.
New programming joining the schedule includes Murdoch Mysteries; crime drama Cracked; historical drama Titanic: Blood And Steel; and Over The Rainbow, the live competition search for theatre’s newest 'Dorothy' for a new Wizard of Oz musical.
CBC’s full list of returning shows includes:
– 22 Minutes
– Arctic Air
– Doc Zone
– Dragons' Den
– George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight
– Heartland
– Marketplace
– Mr. D
– Republic of Doyle
– The Big Decision
– the fifth estate
– The Nature of Things
– The Rick Mercer Report
– The Ron James Show
“CBC Television’s commitment to developing entertaining, engaging Canadian programming was rewarded with record ratings last season,” said Christine Wilson, executive director, content planning for CBC English Services, in the announcement. “Despite financial challenges, the strength of those returning favourites combined with exciting new titles is setting the stage for an outstanding 2012-13 season.”
