Cats in the Plateau Crave series: Letterkenny Creator Launches Montreal-Based Satire

Canadian television network Crave has ordered a new comedy series titled Cats in the Plateau, created by and starring Letterkenny creator Jared Keeso. The production is currently filming on location in Montreal's iconic Plateau neighborhood, generating significant search interest and anticipation among Canadian television fans. The series serves as a satirical tribute to the neighborhood's unique local culture, gentrification dynamics, and famous feline residents, utilizing the dry wit and rapid-fire dialogue that has characterized Keeso's previous work. For Canadian television enthusiasts and comedy fans globally, the series and trailer previews are streaming on Crave platforms internationally.

Quick Facts

• Release Date: July 5, 2026

• Platform: Crave (Global)

• Director / Showrunner: Jared Keeso

• Runtime / Episode Count: 6 Episodes

• Top 3-5 Cast: Jared Keeso, Nathan Dales

• Status: Filming

A New Comedy Production in Montreal's Plateau Neighborhood

The launch of production on Cats in the Plateau represents a significant expansion of Jared Keeso's creative footprint in Quebec, transitioning his signature satirical style to the unique cultural landscape of Montreal. The Plateau neighborhood, known for its colorful duplexes, exterior spiral staircases, and artistic population, provides a visual setting that is central to the show's identity. The series explores the daily interactions of the residents, satirizing the stereotypes associated with the hipster culture, local businesses, and community organizers who define the area.

Filming on location in a busy urban neighborhood requires extensive coordination with local authorities and residents to manage street closures and minimize disruption. The production team has worked to engage the local community, hiring local crew members and featuring neighborhood spaces in the background of the scenes. The public's interest in the filming has been high, with fans sharing photos of the set on social media, driving search queries for details of the plot and the release schedule.

The series is produced in partnership with Bell Media, which has supported Keeso's projects through its streaming service Crave, establishing the creator as one of the network's most valuable assets. The investment in original Canadian comedy content is a key component of Crave's distribution strategy, offering unique programming that stands out in a market dominated by international streaming services. The initial response to the production indicates strong demand for Keeso's work, setting expectations for a successful launch.

Jared Keeso's Creative Legacy from Letterkenny to Shoresy

Jared Keeso has established himself as one of Canada's most successful and distinctive comedy writers, earning critical acclaim and a loyal international fanbase for his work on Letterkenny and its spin-off Shoresy. His creative style is characterized by a focus on regional subcultures, complex wordplay, and a fast-paced delivery that challenges the conventions of traditional television comedy. This unique approach has resonated with viewers who appreciate the authenticity and specific humor of his characters.

Letterkenny, which ran for twelve successful seasons, became a cultural phenomenon in Canada and the United States, generating catchphrases, merchandise, and live tours that demonstrated the strength of the brand. The series' focus on the daily life of a small Ontario town was praised for its sharp observations and warm heart, establishing Keeso's reputation as a talented creator. The subsequent success of Shoresy, which focused on senior hockey in Northern Ontario, proved that his formula could be successfully adapted to different settings and characters.

The development of Cats in the Plateau indicates a willingness to explore new formats and themes, moving from rural and athletic environments to the urban landscape of Montreal. The satirical focus on gentrification and local culture suggests a mature writing style that addresses contemporary social topics while maintaining the energetic humor that defined his early work. The progress of his career highlights the opportunities available for Canadian creators to build successful franchises that resonate with global audiences.

Satirizing the Plateau: Local Culture and Gentrification Themes

The satirical narrative of the series centers on the conflict between the traditional working-class residents of the Plateau and the newer wave of affluent professionals and influencers who have transformed the neighborhood. Keeso's screenplay utilizes the presence of the area's numerous alley cats as a metaphor for the struggle for space and identity, with the felines serving as observers and participants in the local disputes. This creative premise provides a lighthearted framework to address complex social issues like rising rents, business closures, and the loss of local character.

The characters include caricature figures from both sides of the gentrification debate, including artisanal cafe owners, community activists, and long-time residents who are struggling to adapt to the changing environment. The interactions between these groups generate the core conflict of the series, with the humor emerging from the misunderstandings and competing priorities of the residents. The focus on local detail, including specific streets, parks, and cultural references, ensures that the satire feels authentic to those who know the neighborhood.

The representation of Montreal's unique bilingual dynamic is also a feature of the writing, with the characters navigating English and French in their daily interactions. This linguistic realism adds texture to the setting, reflecting the multicultural identity of the modern city. The series' ability to balance these social observations with broad comedic appeal will be key to its success, offering a unique perspective on contemporary urban life.

The Growth of Canadian Streaming Original Programming

The ordering of Cats in the Plateau is a reflection of the growth of original programming in the Canadian streaming market, driven by regulatory changes and the need for local services to differentiate their offerings. Crave's investment in high-quality, local content has been essential in building its subscriber base, providing viewers with stories that reflect their own experiences and cultural reference points. The partnership with established creators like Keeso ensures a level of quality and brand recognition that supports these commercial goals.

The international distribution of Canadian comedy has also expanded, with streaming platforms introducing regional hits to global markets where they have attracted dedicated fanbases. The success of shows like Schitt's Creek and Letterkenny has demonstrated that localized humor can have global appeal, encouraging broadcasters to invest in projects with international potential. The production of the new series in Montreal is expected to draw interest from viewers who are fascinated by the city's culture, supporting the global branding of Canadian television.

As the production team completes filming and transitions to post-production, the marketing campaign is expected to launch, driving ongoing search queries and anticipation for the premiere. The journey of Cats in the Plateau highlights the potential of regional storytelling to build engaging and successful content in the digital streaming era.

FAQ

Where is the new Crave comedy series Cats in the Plateau being filmed?

The series is currently filming on location in the iconic Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood in Montreal, Quebec.

Who created the new comedy show?

The show was created by Jared Keeso, who is also famous for creating the hit Canadian comedy series Letterkenny and Shoresy.

What is the main satirical focus of Cats in the Plateau?

The series satirizes the local hipster culture, urban gentrification, and community dynamics of Montreal, using neighborhood alley cats as a central motif.

Where can international comedy fans watch the series?

The series will be available for streaming on Crave in Canada, with international distribution updates shared on entertainment portals globally.