The CW announced that Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent will premiere this fall, marking the network’s latest addition to the popular franchise.
The show represents the first Canadian installment in the Law & Order universe. It’s set to bring the familiar procedural format north of the border.
The CW has been expanding its programming slate with proven franchises. The network sees the Law & Order brand as a strong draw for viewers.
The Toronto-based series will follow the Criminal Intent format. This means focusing on the psychological aspects of crimes and the detectives who solve them.
Canadian television has been gaining more attention from U.S. networks recently. Shows filmed in Canada often benefit from production incentives and tax credits.
The fall premiere date puts the show in competition with other procedural dramas. Network television continues to rely heavily on crime shows for consistent ratings.
Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent will need to establish its own identity within the franchise. The original Criminal Intent series ran for ten seasons and developed a dedicated following.
The CW’s programming strategy has shifted toward proven content. The network has moved away from some of its younger-skewing original programming in recent years.
Toronto’s diverse locations should provide an interesting backdrop for the series. The city has served as a filming location for numerous television shows and movies.
The show will likely feature a mix of Canadian and American talent. Cross-border productions have become increasingly common in the television industry.
Details about the cast and specific premiere date weren’t immediately available. The network typically announces these details closer to the fall season.