Canadian Television Shifts Focus to Skilled Trades with New Comedy and Documentary Series
While scripted television has long been captivated by the extravagant lifestyles of the wealthy and powerful—think Succession, The White Lotus, Billions, and The Gilded Age—two new Canadian productions are turning the spotlight toward a different kind of protagonist: the skilled trades worker.
From Glamour to Hammer: A Changing Television Landscape
For years, audiences have been treated to characters indulging in leisure activities, multimillion-dollar deals, designer wardrobes, lavish estates, and gourmet dining. Television has served as a form of escapism, offering glimpses into worlds of opulence and privilege. However, entertainment value can also be found in circles that are typically less romanticized, and Canadian television is now celebrating those who literally get their hands dirty to keep cities functioning.
The Trades Returns for Third Season on Crave
The blue-collar comedy series The Trades returned for its third season on March 20, available exclusively on Crave. The show follows pipefitter Todd Stool, portrayed by Robb Wells of Trailer Park Boys fame, as he navigates the complexities of work, family, and friendship. The first two episodes are currently streaming, with six additional episodes scheduled for release on subsequent Fridays.
Created by Ryan J. Lindsay, who grew up in Sarnia, Ontario, the series was inspired by stories from his carpenter and pipefitter brothers. After returning to Sarnia nearly a decade ago, Lindsay conducted interviews with local tradespeople and pitched the concept to Wells, who joined as lead actor, producer, and writer. This season features guest appearances by notable figures including Mary Walsh, Jon Lovitz, and Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson.
Blue Collar Docuseries Debuts on Crave
Crave has also launched the new docuseries Blue Collar, which premiered on March 27. The series stars Dan Petronijevic—who coincidentally plays Backwoods on The Trades—as he immerses himself in Canada's essential industries. Across ten episodes, Petronijevic works alongside skilled professionals in various fields, including waste management and recycling, commercial fishing, sanitation, pest control, and firefighting.
Addressing Canada's Skilled Trades Shortage
These television productions arrive at a critical time, as Canada faces a significant shortage of skilled trades workers. Various initiatives, such as government funding for training programs and large-scale infrastructure projects, aim to attract more individuals to these professions. Interestingly, this shift could potentially transform the economic landscape, with skilled trades workers emerging as the new affluent class in coming decades.
Ralph Cerasuolo, founder of the Ontario-based Skilled Trades College, highlighted this trend in an interview with BNN Bloomberg last August, stating, "There's a new type of idea that the next generation of millionaires are in the skilled trades, because of its ease to get into your own space, and into your own business." He added, "The next generation, they're calling them the toolbelt generation for obvious reasons because they see the opportunity and they see that AI has become a force and is going to replace a lot of jobs."
As television continues to evolve, these Canadian series not only provide entertainment but also shed light on the vital roles played by skilled trades workers in society, offering a refreshing alternative to the traditional focus on wealth and glamour.
