What book series is the TV show Cardinal based on?

The Canadian crime drama is adapted from the John Cardinal series of novels written by author Giles Blunt. The show specifically adapts the plots of books like Forty Words for Sorrow and The Delicate Storm. The series aired on CTV from 2017 to 2020.

Who are the lead actors in the show Cardinal?

The series stars Billy Campbell in the titular role as Detective John Cardinal. He is paired with Karine Vanasse, who plays his partner, Detective Lise Delorme. The two actors' on-screen dynamic is central to solving the dark, often freezing cases in the fictional town of Algonquin Bay.

How many seasons of Cardinal were produced for CTV?

The television series Cardinal ran for four seasons, concluding in the year 2020. Each season is a self-contained mystery, adapting one or two of Giles Blunt's original novels. The show was critically acclaimed and won several Canadian Screen Awards during its run.

Where does the TV show Cardinal take place?

The series is set and filmed in the fictional northern Ontario city of Algonquin Bay. This setting is heavily inspired by the real-life city of North Bay, Ontario, where author Giles Blunt grew up. The cold, snowy, and isolated winter environments play a major role in the show's atmosphere.

Where does Cardinal rank on Lunoo?

Cardinal is ranked #11 in Lunoo's Best Police Procedural rankings with a score of 7.9/10.

How does Cardinal compare to competitors?

Lunoo provides objective, AI-powered comparisons. Use the comparison tool to see Cardinal side-by-side with any alternative.

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Cardinal

7.85

Good

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description Cardinal Overview

"Cardinal" is a Canadian crime drama television series that aired on CTV from 2017 to 2020, adapted from the John Cardinal novel series written by Giles Blunt. The show stars Billy Campbell as Detective John Cardinal and Karine Vanasse as Detective Lise Delorme, who work together to solve complex murders in the fictional northern Ontario city of Algonquin Bay. It is distinguished by its atmospheric cinematography, depicting harsh winter landscapes, and its focus on character-driven police procedural elements. The series targets audiences who appreciate dark, serialized crime dramas and Nordic noir aesthetics.

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How good is Cardinal?

Cardinal scores 7.85/10 (Good) on Lunoo, making it a well-rated option in the Police Procedural category. Critically respected Canadian crime drama with strong performances, atmospheric setting, and consistently solid audience scores.

What are the best alternatives to Cardinal?

See our alternatives page for Cardinal for a ranked list with scores. Top alternatives include: The Killing (Danish), Unnatural, MIU404.

How does Cardinal compare to The Killing (Danish)?

See our detailed comparison of Cardinal vs The Killing (Danish) with scores, features, and an AI-powered verdict.

Is Cardinal worth it in 2026?

With a score of 7.85/10, Cardinal is a solid option in Police Procedural. See all Police Procedural ranked.

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