Canada’s CBC Joins Microdrama Boom

Canada’s public broadcaster CBC is considering adding locally made vertical dramas to CBC Gem as it expands its digital originals. The move reflects growing competition for viewers’ attention from short-video platforms and microdrama apps.

New digital originals head Ariel Yang will commission short-form series under 15 minutes for adult audiences, and the CBC says suitable vertical dramas may also be considered. Canadian producers are making episodes in 60 to 90 second segments, often ending on cliff-hangers; the country’s production talent and tax credits are helping fuel the sector. CBC’s interest comes as YouTube leads ad-supported streaming reach in Canada.