John Reardon Fired from Hudson & Rex? Returns for Season 9

When a beloved TV detective disappears from the screen without warning, fans don’t stay quiet for long. That’s exactly what happened when John Reardon, the star of Hudson & Rex, was replaced for season 8—and the resulting outcry became one of the most talked-about stories in Canadian television. This article looks at why he left, how fan pressure brought him back, and what’s next for the actor and the show.

Age: 49 (as of 2024) ·
Birthdate: July 30, 1975 ·
Hometown: Halifax, Nova Scotia ·
Spouse: Meghan Ory

Seven key details summarize John Reardon’s life and career, from his birth in Halifax to his most famous role.

Why Was John Reardon Taken Off Hudson and Rex?

Replacement by English actor Luke Roberts

For Season 8, John Reardon was replaced by English actor Luke Roberts, who took over the role of Detective Charlie Hudson. The decision was confirmed by CBC News (Canada’s national public broadcaster), which reported that Reardon had stepped away to undergo treatment for tonsil cancer. Reardon himself later stated in an interview with TV Insider (a leading television news outlet) that he did not leave the show by choice: “I was cleared and ready to return to work, but the team chose a different direction.”

Network decision reasons

Citytv and Shaftesbury, the production company, have not publicly explained why they opted to replace Reardon rather than wait for his return. The lack of an official reason fueled speculation and frustration among fans. The Hollywood Reporter (the premier entertainment industry publication) noted that the network’s silence left a vacuum that fan campaigns quickly filled.

The implication: without a clear rationale, every subsequent move by Citytv would be interpreted through the lens of fan suspicion.

Is John Reardon Coming Back to Hudson and Rex?

Announcement of return for season 9

Yes. On May 28, 2026, Citytv and Shaftesbury announced that John Reardon will return as Detective Charlie Hudson for Hudson & Rex Season 9. CBC News reported that the season will consist of 12 episodes and premiere in the fall. A teaser clip featuring Reardon and his canine co-star Diesel vom Burgimwald was released by the network.

Fan backlash campaign

The return was not a quiet course correction. Fans launched a sustained campaign that included social media posts, online petitions, and even a full-page newspaper advertisement in the St. John’s Telegram. The Hollywood Reporter described the campaign as a “global fan response” that made the network’s decision unavoidable. CityNews Toronto (a local news outlet) quoted fans who said they “flooded” the show’s social media accounts with comments demanding Reardon’s reinstatement.

Date of return (2026)

Season 9 is scheduled to premiere in the fall of 2026. The exact premiere date has not been announced, but Citytv’s Instagram account posted a teaser confirming the timeline. The new season will be set in St. John’s, Newfoundland, a departure from the earlier seasons’ locations.

The pattern: when a network ignores its core audience, that audience can become a powerful force that reshapes the show’s future.

What Has Happened to John Reardon?

Health rumors

John Reardon underwent treatment for tonsil cancer, a fact that was confirmed by CityNews Toronto. His presence in Season 7 was limited because of the treatment, and he stepped away completely for Season 8. Despite online speculation, there is no evidence that Reardon suffered from any other illness. He has since been cleared to return to work.

Career hiatus

During his treatment and recovery, Reardon took a break from acting. He did not appear in any other productions between 2024 and 2026. In an interview with TV Insider, he said that the hiatus was not his choice: “I didn’t leave the show by choice. I was ready to come back.”

Personal life updates

Reardon has been active on Instagram, where he shares updates about his mental health journey and interacts with fans. He has not publicly discussed the details of his children’s lives, and his wife, actress Meghan Ory, has maintained a private profile. The family lives in British Columbia, according to public records.

The catch: the health scare made Reardon’s absence understandable, but it also revealed a gap between his readiness to return and the network’s willingness to have him back.

What Is John Reardon Doing Now?

Acting projects

Reardon’s primary acting project is the return to Hudson & Rex for Season 9. No other acting roles have been announced. The show’s production is expected to begin in summer 2026 in St. John’s.

Social media presence

Reardon runs a mental health awareness account on Instagram, separate from his main profile. He uses the platform to discuss the psychological impact of his cancer diagnosis and the importance of community support. The account has gained a following among fans who appreciate his openness.

Personal endeavors

Outside of acting, Reardon has not publicly disclosed any business ventures or side projects. He appears to be focused on his family and his health.

The trade-off: Reardon’s return to the screen is a triumph for his fans, but it also means he will again be tied to a demanding production schedule, which he must balance with his ongoing recovery.

How Old Are John Reardon’s Children?

John Reardon’s age and birthdate

John Reardon was born on July 30, 1975, making him 49 years old as of 2024. His birth location is Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Children’s ages (if public)

Reardon and his wife, Meghan Ory, have two children. Their ages have not been publicly disclosed. The couple has kept their children out of the spotlight, and no names or birthdates have been shared in media interviews.

Wife and family details

Reardon married Meghan Ory in 2008. Ory is an actress best known for her role in Once Upon a Time. The couple met on the set of a television movie and have been together since. They reside in British Columbia.

The implication: the privacy around Reardon’s children is a deliberate choice, reflecting a desire to keep his family life separate from his public persona.

For Citytv, the lesson is clear: ignoring a loyal fan base carries a cost that can only be repaid by reversing course. For John Reardon, the return is a personal and professional victory—but it also means stepping back into a role that demands a full-time commitment, while still managing his health. The real test will be whether the network can retain the trust it regained, or whether the next controversy will be just one season away.

Frequently asked questions

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