Larry Newton, a retired teacher from Welland, Ont., shared how the Canadian cop-and-dog drama, “Hudson & Rex,” held a significant place in his family’s heart. The show became a cherished tradition for Newton, his wife, daughter, and grandson, even after his wife’s passing. However, the latest season of the show brought unexpected changes as lead actor John Reardon was replaced by Luke Roberts. This casting shakeup sparked a wave of backlash from fans worldwide, leading to petitions and social media outcries for Reardon’s return.
Reardon revealed that his departure was not voluntary, citing a diagnosis of tonsil cancer during Season 7 as the reason for his absence. Despite being cleared by doctors to resume filming, the production team opted to move in a different direction, ultimately casting Roberts in the role of Detective Charlie Hudson for Season 8. Fans like Newton and Elaine Byrne expressed feeling emotionally attached to Reardon’s character, emphasizing the impact of his sudden exit on their viewing experience.
The show’s production company, Shaftesbury Films, defended their decision, stating that they had extensive discussions with Reardon during his treatment period. With concerns about the uncertainty of Reardon’s return, the producers made the tough choice to continue without him to provide clarity and support to the show’s cast and crew. While Shaftesbury expressed openness to collaborating with Reardon on future projects, fans like Byrne felt misled and betrayed by the abrupt change in the show’s lead actor.
The discontent among viewers has spread globally, with fans from different countries expressing disappointment and frustration over the casting alteration. Some fans, like Joana Almeida from Portugal and Frida Widegren from Sweden, have decided to stop watching the show altogether due to the perceived mishandling of Reardon’s departure. The recasting of both the lead actor and the dog who played Rex in Season 7 has stirred controversy among loyal viewers, reminiscent of past instances in television history where such changes led to negative repercussions for series longevity.
While the situation surrounding “Hudson & Rex” remains contentious, there is speculation that a potential return of Reardon to the show could offer a narrative opportunity and potentially reignite viewer interest. TV columnist Bill Brioux highlighted the risks associated with replacing key characters in long-running series, emphasizing the importance of maintaining viewer loyalty and engagement in such storytelling decisions. As discussions continue within the fan community and the production team, the future trajectory of the show hangs in the balance, with the possibility of a dramatic reunion on the horizon.
