Hudson & Rex Season 8 Confirmed With Even More Crimes To Sniff Out
Last Updated on August 6, 2026
If you’ve ever wished your favorite police procedural had more wagging tails, heartwarming moments, and a dash of Newfoundland charm, then you’re probably already a fan of Hudson & Rex.
And if you’re not, well, pull up a chair, because this cozy Canadian whodunit is about to embark on its eighth season, and there’s never been a better time to join the adventure.
Let’s sniff out everything you need to know about this beloved series, from its origins and characters to its worldwide appeal, and, of course, the scoop on the much-anticipated Season 8.
Kommissar Rex to St. John’s
Hudson & Rex first bounded onto Canadian screens in 2019, but its roots stretch all the way back to Europe.
The show is a fresh, distinctly Canadian adaptation of the Austrian-Italian hit Kommissar Rex, which ran from 1994 to 2004 and won legions of fans with its canine detective.
The Canadian version, created by Ken Cuperus and Will Dixon, found its home on Citytv, with the rugged beauty of St. John’s, Newfoundland, providing a scenic backdrop that’s become as much a character as any of the cast.
The premise is simple but irresistible: Detective Charlie Hudson, a sharp but empathetic major crimes detective, is paired with Rex, a highly trained German Shepherd from the K9 unit, after the tragic loss of Rex’s original handler.
Together, they form an unstoppable team, solving crimes that range from kidnappings and murders to art heists and poisonings, all while navigating the quirks of their colleagues and the city they serve.
Season 8: Renewal, Release Dates, and What’s Next
Now for the news everyone’s been waiting for: Hudson & Rex has officially been renewed for Season 8!
Citytv announced the renewal just before the Season 7 finale in March 2025, a testament to the show’s enduring popularity and loyal fan base.
Filming for Season 8 began in St. John’s in May 2025 and wrapped in late July, and the new episodes will premiere on September 22nd 2025 in Canada.
International releases typically follow a few months later (around May in the UK on Alibi), depending on local broadcasters and streaming platforms.
The News That Shocked Us All
John Reardon, who played Charlie Hudson on Hudson & Rex, is officially not returning for season 8, as his role has been taken over by Luke Roberts, who now plays Mark Hudson, Charlie’s brother and the new lead detective.
This exit appears not to be Reardon’s personal decision; rather, it was driven by changes from the show’s producers and network.
John Reardon was diagnosed with tonsil cancer in late 2024 and took time off to focus on treatment.
He shared his successful recovery on social media and showed eagerness to return to Hudson & Rex, but production moved forward without him. That is also why there are only 8 episodes in season seven.
Even though Reardon has recovered from his cancer diagnosis and expressed his desire to return to work, his contract was not renewed for season 8.
I am stunned by that decision and I’m not alone. Fans have voiced disappointment, speculating that his departure is linked to production choices following both his cancer recovery and the passing of the original Rex dog actor.
I mean, come on! Charlie and Sarah are supposed to get married!
Plot Teasers
So those of us who love the light-heartedness of Hudson and Rex may be in for a bit of shock in season 8.
The powers that be have decided to go with a noticeably darker, more suspenseful atmosphere, shifting the stakes with more complex investigations and deeper emotional themes.
The series will now centers on Mark Hudson, stepping up as Rex’s new detective partner after Charlie Hudson’s departure.
The season will explore shifting alliances, as friends and trusted colleagues may become suspects or adversaries, blurring the lines of who can be relied upon during investigations.
Early episodes hint at a larger, underlying threat connecting multiple cases with a shadowy force pulling strings in the background that challenges the detectives in ways not seen before.
And, both Mark and Rex face personal danger, posing weighty questions about how far one will go to protect their partner, and the emotional cost of solving cases that hit close to home.
We have been promised more personal insights and vulnerability but the show is definitely moving into edgier territory!
Meet the Main Cast
The show’s magic lies in its ensemble, a group of characters whose chemistry is as cozy as your favorite blanket.
Detective Charlie Hudson (John Reardon): The heart of the series, Charlie is a lifelong mystery buff with a knack for finding the truth, and for forming deep bonds, both human and canine.
In the first season, we meet him as he returns to his hometown post-divorce, ready for a new start and a new partner.
Rex (Diesel vom Burgimwald and successors): The soulful German Shepherd at the center of it all.
Diesel, the original dog actor, was a true star, bringing intelligence, empathy, and a bit of mischief to every scene.
After Diesel’s passing in 2024, his nephews Dylan and Dante stepped in to carry on the legacy, ensuring Rex remains as lovable as ever.
Sarah Truong (Mayko Nguyen): The forensics chief who’s as brilliant in the lab as she is compassionate in the field.
Sarah and Charlie share a subtle, slow-burn connection that’s kept fans guessing for seasons.
Superintendent Joe Donovan (Kevin Hanchard): The wise, steady leader of the team, juggling high-stakes cases with his own family drama.
Joe’s guidance keeps the squad grounded, and his dry wit is always welcome.
Jesse Mills (Justin Kelly): The IT specialist and resident tech wizard.
Jesse’s quick with a computer and even quicker with a joke, often lightening the mood when things get tense.
Supporting players like Sergeant Jan Renley (Raven Dauda), Dr. Karma Poole (Bridget Wareham), and Detective Mark (Luke Roberts) round out the cast, each bringing their own flavor to the Major Crimes Unit.
The Dynamic Duo
What really sets Hudson & Rex apart is the partnership at its core. Charlie and Rex aren’t just colleagues, they’re best friends, confidantes, and, at times, each other’s lifeline.
Their communication goes beyond words: a look, a gesture, or a simple “Rex, you know what to do” is often all it takes for the dog to spring into action.
Rex isn’t just a tool for sniffing out clues; he’s a fully realized character. He comforts victims, chases down suspects, and even has a knack for detecting when someone’s hiding something.
The show does a wonderful job of highlighting the real emotional intelligence and empathy that working dogs possess.
The Crimes: Cozy, Clever, and Always Canadian
Each episode delivers a self-contained mystery, but with enough ongoing storylines to keep you invested in the characters’ lives.
The crimes are varied and clever – kidnappings, poisonings, art thefts, double murders, and smuggling rings have all been on the docket.
The writers keep things fresh by weaving in local color, Newfoundland folklore, and the occasional offbeat twist.
But don’t expect gritty violence or grim despair. Hudson & Rex is a cozy procedural at heart, balancing suspense with warmth and humor.
The editing is brisk, the dialogue snappy, the suspects plentiful, and it’s just enough to keep you guessing without losing the show’s signature charm.
The show is also created by Shaftesbury Films, which, in addition to Hudson & Rex, has also produced Murdoch Mysteries, Departure, and the Frankie Drake Mysteries – so you already know it’s top-notch quality!
More Than Just Partners
While the cases are front and center, the show never forgets its characters’ personal lives. Charlie’s past, including his divorce and complicated family ties, is explored with sensitivity.
Sarah and Charlie’s friendship (and maybe something more?) provides a slow-burning subplot that’s as satisfying as any solved case.
Superintendent Donovan’s role as a single father adds depth, and Jesse’s banter keeps things lively.
The relationships extend to Rex, too, as he’s not just Charlie’s dog, but a beloved member of the whole team.
Whether he’s comforting a witness, helping Sarah in the lab, or just being the office mascot, Rex is the glue that holds the group together.
Popularity and Worldwide Appeal
Hudson & Rex isn’t just a hit in Canada. The show’s appeal has crossed borders, with strong demand in the United States (about 59% of its Canadian audience) and growing fan bases in Europe and beyond.
Its universal themes of friendship, loyalty, and the thrill of the chase all translate well, and the show’s cozy tone makes it a favorite for viewers seeking comfort as much as suspense.
The series has inspired a loyal following, with fan clubs, social media groups, and even international streaming deals.
Why We Love Hudson & Rex
At its heart, Hudson & Rex is a show about partnership – between detective and dog, colleagues and friends, and a community that rallies together in the face of adversity.
It’s cozy without being corny, suspenseful without being grim, and always anchored by the warmth of its characters and the beauty of its setting.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, Season 8 may be going in a new direction but still promises more of what makes the show special: clever mysteries, heartfelt moments, and the kind of companionship that only a dog (and a good friend) can provide.
So grab your popcorn, and maybe a treat for your own four-legged sidekick, and get ready for another season of crimes to sniff out, one paw print at a time.
![Hudson & Rex: Season 1-5 [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51gDrE+dtZL._SL500_.jpg)
![Hudson & Rex: Season 1 [DVD] [2019]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51EGjYTuDiS._SL500_.jpg)
![Hudson & Rex: Season 2 [DVD] [2021]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51jI+xBvV2L._SL500_.jpg)
![Hudson & Rex: Season 3 [DVD] [2021]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51zdPu8OxUL._SL500_.jpg)
![Hudson & Rex: Season 4 [DVD] [2022]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41I7CenWLYL._SL500_.jpg)
No John Reardon, no more show!
Oh, I agree I won’t be watching it. John Reardon was the best. I was looking forward to him, getting married to Sarah.!!! Very disappointed!!!!!
Helt enig Skjønner ikke det er lov og si opp personer grunnet fikk kreft Dette er så simpelt. Tror mange seere uteblir fra Hudson og Rex serien fra serie 8 Det var et fantastisk team i seriene 1 til og med serie 7 Vi fleste skjønte vel det var skjedd John Reardon (Charlie) noe Men ikke at det var så alvorlig som det dessverre John fikk føle på kroppen Så skal han bli straffet for og blitt frisk og ikke få komme tilbake Så sovner Rex inn Vi håpet jo på en hyggeligere episode 8 Jeg er spent hvordan seer tallene blir uten Rex og John Anne-Lise fra Norge
Translation: “Totally agree I don’t understand that it’s legal to fire people because they got cancer This is so simple. I think many viewers are missing the Hudson and Rex series from series 8. It was a fantastic team in series 1 through series 7. Most of us probably understood that something had happened to John Reardon (Charlie) But not that it was as serious as what unfortunately John felt on his body. Then he will be punished for it and get well and not be allowed to come back. Then Rex falls asleep. We were hoping for a nicer episode 8. I’m excited how the viewer numbers will be without Rex and John Anne-Lise from Norway”
Sono perfettamente d’accordo senza John Reardon non sarà più lo stesso ed anch’io non lo guarderò amavo troppo tutto i personaggi specialmente Charly e Sara e volevo vederli sposati Produzione mi avete deluso non vi Guarderò
Translation: I totally agree without John Reardon it will never be the same and I won’t watch it either I loved all the characters too much especially Charly and Sara and I wanted to see them married Production you disappointed me I won’t watch you
I’m not sure if I will watch. It isn’t Luke Robert’s fault that he is taking John Reardon’s place so I’d like to give it a chance. It won’t be the same. John was Hudson. Great guy and great actor. Maybe Luke is too. You never know.
We will miss you JOHN AND REX
Agreed! It will never be the same!
I don’t think I can watch Hudson and Rex anymore. It will not be the same. Him getting sick is not a reason to let him go. I tried watching Luke, and it was so different. I didn’t like it. I cancelled my subscription.
True. I cannot believe the showrunners have done this to the star. I hope everyone turns off. I am surprised his Co stars haven’t spoke up and just continued. Its disgusting. From what I’ve read John did nothing wrong. I have no idea why they have been so cruel. I understand it must have been difficult to come up with a story line for his absence but it was flimsy. Sarah and he lived together. He asked her in the episode about the dog show to take rex if anything happened to him but she simply hands the new rex over to mark. Diesel was given no respect. A ridiculous tribute like they had done to a dog and horse that had appeared in 1 episode. Dillion appeared in a film K9 mystery. Sherlock bones where he barely appeared. So the wonderful dog actors and John Reardon were treated the same! Disgraceful!
Can they give Charlie (John Reardon) a good sendoff at least? Trying to remain positive!
Just bought a subscription to this channel. I will be cancelling it if Charlie does not return……
Good for you.
No Charlie, No Diesel, NO HUDSON & REX. Simply getting rid of John Reardon without any reasonable “good bye” to the character, any good reason for his being gone is just horrible. Chasing his brother and disappearing in Belize? Ridiculous. Now I suppose Sarah and Mark will become a couple? NO, NO, NO.
The show will not last without John Reardon. The bond between him and Rex was so special. It was so comforting to
watch. The connection between the entire cast was very evident. Please bring John Reardon back. If not I will just have
to watch the first six Seasons and part of Season 7.
That’s what I’ve been doing. Obviously we knew that Diesal had doubles. They were never credited. Mind you they barely recognised Diesal.
So disappointed replacing John Reardon. I found the show and love it. I’m only in season 2 and I will keep watching until season 7. Why replace John? Use Mark with John and Rex. So glad, when I was going through cancer treatments my employer didn’t dump me!
No John Reardon? No love story with Sarah. More edgie shows. No more fun watching this series. Not watching season 8.
Hudson and Rex has become one of our favorite shows. It gives up hope and comfort in this crazy world we are living in now. We cried when we heard the original Rex passed but his nephews are doing a good job. They’re just not Rex. And not bringing John Rearden back is the worst! What in the world are you thinking?
Agree
I was a new watchers of Hudson and Rex. I am just now getting to Season 8 and I am not happy because the lead actor is not there. Too bad you lost a viewer. I was a good show. Not that you care… you made a huge mistake. I would be very surprised if you make it past season 8. CANCEL IT!!!!
Bring back John Reardon!! Won’t be the same without him?
Probably will stop watching it!
The producers of this show certainly made a mistake in getting rid of John. I watched Season 8 Episode 1 online and was appalled at the lack of warmth among the characters. Without the camaraderie between Diesel and John, this is just another cop show with no heart. Please cancel this show so that we at least can remember how good it once was.
Will not be watching after John Reardon’s departure from the show.
The Producers are complete idiots for dumping John Reardon. I agree with ALL the people who are complaining about the change. The Producers HAD a hit show until you dumped John. I’m sure you’ve heard of the expression “IF IT AIN’T BROKE DON’T FIX IT.’ STUPID DUMBA** CANUCK PRODUCERS.
My wife and I have always looked forward to watching each show and looked forward to watching the two stars getting married sometime in the future. The show will never be the same. So, moving forward we will find another show to watch and turn off Hudson & Rex until John is returned to the show!!! Big mistake on your part to change anything!!! Good bye.
John Reardon beat cancer. He was fired for that!!! What a travesty!
That was definitely the wrong thing to do. I won’t buy any DVD after season 7. You’ve lost a regular viewer.
I won’t watch it without John. I have seen every episode and record it but not anymore. I even downloaded up tv to follow all the episodes. Will cancel.
I am a regular viewer and will not be watching because John Reardon is not in it.
It really is a completely new show and I believe they made some really bad decisions on this series.
I am so sorry that John Reardon no longer a part of the show is, what a mistake ! He make the serie sommething speciale, not to much macho man like the new one. It is now something like any other series without any heart. They try, but it does not come across. I was a regular vieuwer but not anymore.
Did Charlie have more than one brother? I recall the episode when his brother was introduced as a professional boxer. When did he become a policeman? It all sounds too contrived.
I don’t want to watch another “dark” police procedural. Hudson & Rex was different from all the others. The chemistry between Charlie & Rex was key.
When & if season 8 hits the American airwaves I will give it a shot but knowing how John Reardon was summarily dropped from the cast will challenge my acceptance of the ‘substitute Hudson’.
The “new producers” have totally missed the point. Its taken years to generate a loyal base. Were these new guys brought in to shut it down?? Managed closure??? There is no other rationale. John and Rex ARE the name of those show. How do you VOLUNTARILY remove the main character??? Rex i get. Why add to the misery?? Your show is dead. And i have no plans to watch. It was a good clean fun show. I hope someone else can figure out how to be successful with this storyline.
I commented here a while ago. I tried to give the benefit of the doubt & watched season 8. I initially thought that was it after the 8th episode, but they just had their mid-season break. So I made it through episode 9. I’ll watch the others, mostly because I love GSDs, but it is “ruff” as they say.
Observations:
1) Lack of chemistry; lack of warmth, plus little camaraderie between the characters. They’ve tried a little bit w/Mark & Jesse – so we’ll see. BTW, still no answer on the same “Hudson” name. Guess St. John’s has a few of them – like the name Jones lol.
2) Now Sara has no significant other – it would’ve been nice to have a resolution – also the writers could’ve explored a storyline that shows her processing the loss of Charlie, but they missed an opportunity.
3) I do like that Dillon & Dante fill in nicely for Rex, but they’re no Diesel. Diesel definitely had acting chops & “swagger!”
4) Regarding Luke Roberts – he’s actually a good actor; he hides his accent well. I don’t think he’s had a fair shake since everybody is so pro-John, so that has been tough in & of itself. I also think Luke would’ve been a great bad guy in the series.
5) Last but not least – John Reardon VERY definitely deserves to come back to the show! It’s horrible that he’s gone – it almost feels as though writers, producers & TPTB purposely tanked the show.
I don’t know if it was a chemistry thing between John & Diesel then not having either star, but please – for the love of dog – have John Reardon come back & do a proper denouement or conclusion for his storyline. They could easily make it a guest arc so we see some closure.
Just my 2¢ – thx!