Thumbs Down for Canadian Shows

American Idol. America’s Next Top Model. Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader? Project Runway. Top Chef. Wipeout.

What do these shows have in common? They all have direct Canadian counterparts.

The reason for having Canadian versions of these shows is obviously that the shows have proved their success and popularity. Not only have they captured the attention of American viewers but they have also attracted a lot of Canadian viewers. Given the level of success these shows, the television networks and producers probably saw the potential they could have even in Canada.

So why did they do poorly compared to their parent shows?

My honest opinion? The Canadian ones are never as good or as interesting as the American ones. Sure it has the same concept, but I always seem to find the Canadian versions of lower quality – everything seems to be the “next best thing” and never the “best”. I am not being a hater and I am proud to be Canadian, but I really wish Canada would stop trying to imitate its neighbour.

The viewers want something NEW, something EXCITING, something WORTHWHILE watching. I mean, isn’t that the whole point of marketing? Creating excitement and buzz among the consumers so they would want to try out the product. They certainly do not want a lower quality version of the same product. If it is absolutely necessary that there is a Canadian version of an American show, put some real thought into it and make it better – give better prizes, alter the concept, create new challenges, seriously ANYTHING.

I do get excited when I hear that there is going to be a Canadian version of one of my favourite shows, but my excitement (and everybody else’s) disappear real quick. I desperately hope that Top Chef Canada and Wipeout Canada do not disappoint me because I am really looking forward to them and they are two of my favourite shows!