The Fifth Estate

The Fifth Estate (1979- )

RunningDocumentary show

For four decades the fifth estate has been Canada's premier investigative documentary program. Hosts Bob McKeown, Gillian Findlay and Mark Kelley continue the tradition of provocative and fearless journalism which began with Adrienne Clarkson, Warner Troyer and Peter Reilly in 1975.

Each week the fifth estate brings in-depth investigations that matter to Canadians – delivering a dazzling parade of political leaders, controversial characters and ordinary people whose lives were touched by triumph or tragedy.

In 2014, the fifth estate won an International Emmy® Award for its investigation into the Rana Plaza collapse in Bangladesh, titled Made in Bangladesh. For the third year in a row, the fifth estate was named Canada's Best News Information Series at the Canadian Screen Awards.

Network
Scheduleevery Friday at 21:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

Smash & Grab
Season 51Episode 660 min

Smash & Grab

A crime wave is hitting jewelry stores across Canada. Smash-and-grabs are going viral on social media, but who's really behind these robberies? We reveal how adults are playing the system by luring kids into violent crime with lifelong consequences.

Nov 21, 2025

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S51E06Smash & GrabNov 21, 2025
S51E05The War on Safe DrugsNov 14, 2025
S51E04Dawson Creek: Behind the FearOct 31, 2025
S51E03Dying to RecoverOct 24, 2025
S51E02Funding the OccupationOct 17, 2025
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'The Fifth Estate' premiere?

'The Fifth Estate' premiered on September 16, 1979.

Who were the main cast members of 'The Fifth Estate'?

The main cast members of 'The Fifth Estate' included Adrienne Clarkson, Warner Troyer, and David Suzuki.

What was the genre of 'The Fifth Estate'?

'The Fifth Estate' was a news and current affairs television show.

Who were the executive producers of 'The Fifth Estate'?

The executive producers of 'The Fifth Estate' were Mark Starowicz and Peter Herrndorf.

Which network aired 'The Fifth Estate'?

'The Fifth Estate' aired on CBC Television.

What was the format of 'The Fifth Estate'?

'The Fifth Estate' followed a documentary-style format, often featuring investigative journalism.

How many episodes were produced in the first season of 'The Fifth Estate'?

The first season of 'The Fifth Estate' consisted of 14 episodes.

Did 'The Fifth Estate' focus on Canadian or international stories?

'The Fifth Estate' primarily focused on Canadian stories, but also covered international topics.

Did 'The Fifth Estate' use reenactments in its episodes?

Yes, 'The Fifth Estate' occasionally used reenactments to illustrate certain events or situations.

Did 'The Fifth Estate' feature interviews with notable figures?

Yes, 'The Fifth Estate' often included interviews with notable figures, including politicians, activists, and experts.

Did 'The Fifth Estate' cover controversial topics?

Yes, 'The Fifth Estate' frequently covered controversial topics, aiming to shed light on important issues.

Did 'The Fifth Estate' win any awards?

Yes, 'The Fifth Estate' received several awards and nominations throughout its run, including multiple Gemini Awards.

Did 'The Fifth Estate' have a specific target audience?

'The Fifth Estate' targeted a broad audience, as it aimed to inform and engage viewers with its investigative journalism.

How long was each episode of 'The Fifth Estate'?

Each episode of 'The Fifth Estate' had a runtime of approximately one hour.

Did 'The Fifth Estate' have a significant impact on Canadian television?

Yes, 'The Fifth Estate' is considered a groundbreaking show that had a significant impact on Canadian television, setting the standard for investigative journalism.

Cast

Bob McKeown

Bob McKeown

plays himself
Gillian Findlay

Gillian Findlay

plays herself
Mark Kelley

Mark Kelley

plays himself
View all cast

Characters

Co-Host

Co-Host

played by Bob McKeown
Co-Host

Co-Host

played by Gillian Findlay
Co-Host

Co-Host

played by Mark Kelley
View all characters

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