If you loved the atmospheric storytelling of Broadchurch, Cardinal offers a similarly captivating experience with its rugged detective and chilling small-town crimes. Now available to stream in the UK, this Canadian drama has earned high praise for its smart plotting and intense performances.
- Canadian series set in a small Northern Ontario town
- Features a complex duo of detectives unfolding deep mysteries
- Available to stream now on U in the UK
What happened
Cardinal is adapted from Giles Blunt’s novels and centers on Detective John Cardinal, who rejoins the homicide team in the fictional Algonquin Bay after a forced demotion. His return aligns with the discovery of a missing girl's body, reigniting a cold case that haunts him. Partnered with Detective Lise Delorme, they dive into a series of intricate investigations filled with dark secrets, including corruption probes and personal hidden agendas.
The show spans four series that explore various intense cases, from a woman found with a bullet wound and amnesia to complex double murders and unsettling disappearances. Cardinal’s atmospheric setting and layered storytelling provide viewers with a richly detailed and immersive crime drama experience.
Why it feels good
Fans of Broadchurch will appreciate the similar slow-building tension, strong character development, and small-town isolation that give Cardinal its emotional depth. Billy Campbell’s portrayal of the tenacious yet troubled Detective Cardinal draws natural comparisons to other iconic TV detectives, emphasizing both vulnerability and determination.
The show also delivers a gripping narrative with slow reveals and a moody atmosphere, making it a perfect binge for armchair sleuths who enjoy piecing together clues alongside flawed, real-feeling characters. The chemistry between Cardinal and Delorme adds intriguing complexity to the investigative process, enhancing viewer engagement.
What to enjoy or watch next
All four series of Cardinal are now available to stream on U, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a new detective drama with depth and suspense. As you dive in, keep an eye on the evolving relationship between the detectives and the haunting beauty of the Northern Ontario backdrop.
For viewers eager to explore more mysteries, The Tower, available on ITVX, is another excellent option. It follows Detective Sarah Collins in southeast London as she unpacks a slew of dark revelations. Another recommended series is Case Histories, featuring Jason Isaacs as investigator Jackson Brodie, perfect for those who enjoy unconventional crime stories.