John Reardon is a name that’s been lighting up screens both big and small, and for good reason. The Canadian actor has been a familiar face for fans of the Hallmark Channel and the hit series Hudson & Rex, where he plays the lead role of Detective Charlie Hudson. But beyond his acting career, Reardon has recently been in the spotlight for a very personal reason — his battle with tonsil cancer in 2024. Whether you're a longtime fan or just learning about him, there's a lot to uncover about this versatile performer's life and journey.

From his early days growing up in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to his time studying theater in Dublin, Reardon’s path has been anything but ordinary. He’s not just an actor — he’s also an athlete, a family man, and now, a cancer survivor. His story is one of resilience, strength, and determination. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at his life, his career highlights, and the health journey that’s touched many hearts.

If you’ve ever wondered what makes John Reardon such a compelling figure in the world of television and film, you’re not alone. His recent openness about his personal struggles has sparked a lot of interest, and many are eager to learn more about the man behind the characters. So, let’s dive into the life of this talented Canadian actor and discover what makes him so special.

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Table of Contents

• John Reardon’s Biography
• Early Life and Education
• Career Highlights
• Personal Life
• John Reardon’s Health Journey
• FAQs

John Reardon’s Biography

John Henry Reardon was born on July 30, 1975, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. He’s one of three siblings and comes from a massive extended family with over 300 cousins. Known for his roles on screen, Reardon has become a household name in Canadian and American television. His career spans decades, with appearances in popular shows such as Arctic Air and, more recently, the Citytv series Hudson & Rex, where he plays Detective Charlie Hudson alongside a German Shepherd named Rex.

He’s also made appearances in Hallmark Channel movies, including the heartwarming Believe in Christmas. Whether he’s solving crimes or warming hearts with holiday romance, Reardon’s on-screen presence is hard to miss. Off-screen, he’s just as intriguing — especially now that he’s opened up about his health challenges.

Early Life and Education

Growing up in Halifax, John was always active and sporty. He played football and basketball, which helped shape his disciplined and focused nature. His love for sports was matched only by his passion for acting. After high school, Reardon took his talents to the Lir Academy of Dramatic Arts in Dublin, Ireland, where he honed his craft and laid the foundation for his future in the entertainment industry.

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It’s safe to say that his athletic background contributed to his physical presence in action-heavy roles, but it was his training in theater that gave him the emotional depth and versatility needed to tackle complex characters.

Career Highlights

Reardon’s career began to take off when he landed a recurring role as Blake Laviolette on the CBC series Arctic Air before 2015. That role helped establish him as a reliable and talented actor in Canadian television. Since then, he’s appeared in a number of projects, both on TV and in film.

One of his most well-known roles to date is as Detective Charlie Hudson in the hit Canadian procedural drama Hudson & Rex, which he joined in 2019. The show follows Charlie and his canine partner Rex as they solve crimes in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Season 7 officially wrapped on March 11, 2025, and fans were left wondering about his character’s future after some speculation about Reardon’s departure from the show.

Outside of Hudson & Rex, Reardon has also starred in several Hallmark Channel movies, including Believe in Christmas, which added to his growing fan base and further solidified his presence in feel-good television.

Personal Life

John Reardon is not just a public figure — he’s also a private person who values his family and personal time. Growing up in a large family, he learned early on the importance of support, connection, and shared experiences. His openness about his health in 2024 has only made fans feel closer to him, as they admire his honesty and strength.

John Reardon’s Health Journey

In late 2024, Reardon made a heartfelt announcement on Instagram, revealing he had been diagnosed with tonsil cancer. He shared a photo of himself smiling for the camera, explaining the significance of that moment. It was a snapshot of resilience — a symbol of hope during a tough time.

Thankfully, Reardon has since shared that he’s in recovery, which is great news for fans who have been following his journey closely. His post detailed how his support system played a crucial role in his healing process. He also noted that things had been challenging during that year, especially after the initial diagnosis, but his positivity and determination never wavered.

His openness about his cancer battle has sparked a lot of conversation online. Fans have expressed their admiration for his courage and have been sending him messages of support. It’s not every day you see a beloved actor being so candid about something so personal, and for that, Reardon has earned even more respect.

What’s Next for John Reardon?

As of 2025, Reardon is focused on recovery and getting back into the swing of things. Season 7 of Hudson & Rex was a big moment for him, and while there was speculation about his future on the show, fans are hopeful he’ll return for future seasons. He’s also likely to continue working on Hallmark projects, which have become a staple of his career and a favorite among audiences.

Reardon’s Instagram updates have given fans a peek into his life beyond the spotlight. His recent posts reflect a sense of gratitude and a renewed appreciation for life. Whether he’s working on set or enjoying quiet moments with family, John Reardon continues to inspire with his resilience and positive outlook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is John Reardon leaving Hudson & Rex?

There has been some speculation about Reardon’s future on the show, especially after Season 7 wrapped in March 2025. However, there’s no official confirmation that he’s leaving the series. Fans are hopeful that Detective Charlie Hudson will return in future seasons.

What type of cancer did John Reardon have?

John Reardon was diagnosed with tonsil cancer in 2024. He shared the news with his followers on Instagram, giving a candid update about his health and recovery process. As of early 2025, he is in recovery and doing well.

Where can I watch John Reardon’s latest movies and TV shows?

You can watch Hudson & Rex on Citytv in Canada and on various streaming platforms depending on your location. His Hallmark movies, including Believe in Christmas, are available on the Hallmark Channel and streaming services like Amazon Prime and Apple TV.

Learn more about Hudson & Rex on our site, and check out this page for in-depth coverage of his acting career.