“The West Wing” is a political television drama that aired from 1999 to 2006 on the NBC network. The show offers an insightful portrayal of the inner workings of the White House’s Oval Office under the rule of the fictional President Josiah Battlet. Praised for its ability to depict the challenges and complexities of politics while shedding a positive light on aspects like public service and governance, “The West Wing” has been dubbed by many as one of the best shows to ever grace the television screens.
Viewers in Canada can stream all seasons of the “The West Wing” series on subscription-based streaming services like Max. Do take note that there are platforms like Max that are not accessible in Canada due to geo-restrictions, which would require users to subscribe to a VPN.
“The West Wing” series is available for purchase on video-on-demand (VOD) services such as Apple TV and Microsoft Store if you prefer a digital copy.
If you’re interested in physical home media formats, you can also opt to buy the complete “The West Wing” series on DVD.
In this article, we will walk you through each streaming option to identify which platform can give you a convenient and high-quality viewing experience.
Table of Contents
1. Max
You can stream all seven seasons and 156 episodes of “The West Wing” on the subscription-based streaming service, Max. On Max, “The West Wing” streams in HD with subtitles.
Devices like smartphones, smart TVs, computers, laptops, web browsers, media players like Roku and Apple TV, and game consoles like the Xbox series are all supported on Max. Max has stopped offering free trial promos since its relaunch, but you can still avail it if you get Max as an add-on on Hulu or Prime Video.
Unfortunately, Max is geo-restricted in Canada, so users must subscribe to a VPN to access the platform.
How to Watch “The West Wing” Series On Max In Canada
The only way to watch “The West Wing” series on Max in Canada is by using a VPN service:
- Subscribe to a VPN service. (ExpressVPN is our #1 recommendation)
- Download and install the VPN app on your preferred device.
- Connect to a server in the US.
- Open the Max website or app, then sign up for an account.
- Prepare a US-issued form of payment. Max accepts debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express) and PayPal.
- Search for “The West Wing” in its library, hit play, and start streaming.
Tip: A VPN is beneficial not only in bypassing geo-restrictions but also in masking IP addresses, protecting your data when browning in public networks, blocking malicious software from tracking your online activities, and even helping you secure discounted deals on certain online purchases.
The use of VPNs is legal in Canada, but Max is actively restricting IP addresses that are connected to VPNs from accessing its platform. But ExpressVPN, our top VPN recommendation, is a trusted and secure tool known for effectively and consistently bypassing Max’s geo-restrictions in Canada.
With ExpressVPN, you are eligible to avail of a 30-day risk-free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee if you click the link below:
To watch all seven seasons of “The West Wing” on Max, sign up for an account and subscribe to any of the following monthly plans:
Plan | Monthly | Annual | Simultaneous streams | Video resolution | Number of downloads |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ad-Lite | $9.99 | $99.99 | 2 streams | HD | None |
Ad-Free | $15.99 | $149.99 | 2 streams | HD | 30 titles |
Ultimate Ad-Free | $19.99 | $199.99 | 4 streams | HD to 4K | 100 titles |
2. Apple TV
On Apple TV’s video-on-demand platform, you can buy complete seasons of “The West Wing” series for CAD$68.99. You can stream the show in HD with subtitles and an inclusive Closed Caption (CC) feature.
3. Microsoft Store
Another fitting VOD option is the Microsoft Store. There, you can buy complete seasons of “The West Wing” series in SD or HD for CAD$14.99. Individual episodes are also available for purchase for CAD$2.49. The series includes Closed Captions (CC) in English.
What Is the Best Streaming Option to Watch The West Wing in Canada?
The best streaming option to watch “The West Wing” is through subscription-based streaming services – in this case, Max. Watching the series on Max would be more cost-effective and convenient. For only $9.99 to $19.99 per month, you will have unlimited access to all seasons and episodes of “The West Wing” on Max. Whereas buying the series digitally requires separate purchases for each season or episode, which is more expensive than a monthly subscription plan. Also, purchasing the series can stack up your device’s storage capacity, while subscription models allow you to stream their content anywhere and anytime as long as you have a stable Internet connection.
What Is The West Wing About?
“The West Wing” offers a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of the President of the United States, his senior staff, and their daily challenges in managing the nation’s affairs. Primarily set in the West Wing of the White House, the series showcases the struggles, triumphs, and moral dilemmas faced by fictional Democratic President Josiah Bartlet and his team as they navigate complex issues while striving to uphold their ideals and serve the American people.
Who Are the Creators of The West Wing?
The creator of “The West Wing” series is the award-winning producer Aaron Sorkin. Sorkin is best known for his works that explore politics. The show is produced under John Wells Productions and Warner Bros. Television.
Who Are in the Cast of The West Wing?
The cast of “The West Wing” series features well-known actors such as Martin Sheen from “Apocalypse Now” and Rob Lowe from Fox’s “9-1-1: Lone Star.” Here are the cast members of “The West Wing”:
- Martin Sheen as President Josiah Bartlet
- Rob Lowe as Sam Seaborn
- Allison Janney as C.J. Cregg
- Bradley Whitford as Josh Lyman
- Richard Schiff as Toby Ziegler
- John Spencer as Leo McGarry
- Janel Moloney as Donna Moss
- Dule Hill as Charlie Young
- Stockard Channing as Abigail Bartlet
- Joshua Malina as Will Bailey
- Mary McCormack as Kate Harper
- Alan Alda as Arnold Vinick
Who are the Main Characters of The West Wing?
The main characters of “The West Wing” series are:
- President Josiah Bartlet – The president of the United States, known for his intelligence and commitment to public service.
- Sam Seaborn – The White House’s Deputy Communications Officer with idealist visions and articulate communication skills.
- C.J. Cregg – The Press Secretary who is best known for her confidence and quick-witted press briefings.
- Josh Lyman – The passionate Deputy Chief of Staff with a brilliant political mind.
- Toby Ziegler – The occasionally gruff Communications Director with idealist views and a talent for writing.
- Leo McGarry – The seasoned Chief of Staff who holds a troubled past. He serves as a father figure for many of the staff.
- Diana Moss – Josh Lyman’s loyal and dedicated assistant.
Why Is The West Wing So Popular?
Throughout its television run, “The West Wing” gained a dedicated viewership and became a cultural phenomenon for its innovative approach to storytelling, rapid-fire dialogue, thought-provoking social themes, and the cast’s outstanding performances. More importantly, “The West Wing” set itself apart from other political shows by presenting a more idealized and positive depiction of American politics, which ultimately inspired audiences with an optimistic view of the government.
What Do Critics Say About The West Wing?
Critics and audiences alike have praised “The West Wing” for its intelligent and rapid-fire dialogue, engaging performances, and its ability to shed light on the complexities of politics and governance. The series has been applauded for its portrayal of public service and its exploration of ethical dilemmas faced by those in power.
“The West Wing” holds an overall approval rating of 81% on Rotten Tomatoes. See what critics say about the series:
- “In four minutes, series creator and writer Aaron Sorkin has masterfully established a handful of storylines and choreographed introductions to a range of the show’s sprawling cast of core characters.” – The Age (Australia)
- “Combining a powerhouse cast (Rob Lowe, Martin Sheen) with a crackling script from American President scribe Aaron-Sorkin, this show gels as one of the season’s best.” – Tampa Bay Times
How Many Seasons of The West Wing Are Available to Stream in Canada?
“The West Wing” had a seven-season run on the NBC channel from 1999 to 2006. All seasons can be streamed in Canada via Max with a VPN, and on VOD platforms like Apple TV and the Microsoft Store. Here’s what went down each season:
Season 1 (1999-2000)
The first season introduces President Josiah Bartlet and his staff as they confront the challenges of public service.
Episodes:
- Pilot
- Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc
- A Proportional Response
- Five Votes Down
- The Crackpots and These Women
- Mr. Willis of Ohio
- The State Dinner
- Enemies
- The Short List
- In Excelsis Deo
- Lord John Marbury
- He Shall, from Time to Time…
- Take Out the Trash Day
- Take This Sabbath Day
- Celestial Navigation
- 20 Hours in L.A.
- The White House Pro-Am
- Six Meetings Before Lunch
- Let Bartlet Be Bartlet
- Mandatory Minimums
- Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics
- What Kind of Day Has It Been
Season 2 (2000-2001)
The West Wing team faces the threat of a scandal and an international crisis, while navigating political criticism and personal troubles.
Episodes:
- In the Shadow of Two Gunmen: Part 1
- In the Shadow of Two Gunmen: Part 2
- The Midterms
- In This White House
- And It’s Surely to Their Credit
- The Lame Duck Congress
- The Portland Trip
- Shibboleth
- Galileo
- Noël
- The Leadership Breakfast
- The Drop-In
- Bartlet’s Third State of the Union
- The War at Home
- Ellie
- Somebody’s Going to Emergency, Somebody’s Going to Jail
- The Stackhouse Filibuster
- 17 People
- Bad Moon Rising
- The Fall’s Gonna Kill You
- 18th and Potomac
- Two Cathedrals
Season 3 (2001-2002)
The president suffers from health issues as the West Wing staff deals with pressing national and global issues.
Episodes:
- Isaac and Ishmael
- Manchester: Part 1
- Manchester: Part 2
- Ways and Means
- On the Day Before
- War Crimes
- Gone Quiet
- The Indians in the Lobby
- The Women of Qumar
- Bartlet for America
- H. Con-172
- 100,000 Airplanes
- The Two Bartlets
- Night Five
- Hartsfield’s Landing
- Dead Irish Writers
- The U.S. Poet Laureate
- Stirred
- Enemies Foreign and Domestic
- The Black Vera Wang
- We Killed Yamamoto
- Posse Comitatus
Season 4 (2002-2003)
The West Wing team navigates a tumultuous campaign as President Bartlet runs for re-election.
Episodes:
- 20 Hours in America: Part 1
- 20 Hours in America: Part 2
- College Kids
- The Red Mass
- Debate Camp
- Game On
- Election Night
- Process Stories
- Swiss Diplomacy
- Arctic Radar
- Holy Night
- Guns Not Butter
- The Long Goodbye
- Inauguration: Part 1
- Inauguration: Over There
- The California 47th
- Red Haven’s on Fire
- Privateers
- Angel Maintenance
- Evidence of Things Not Seen
- Life On Mars
- Commencement
- Twenty Five
Season 5 (2003-2004)
The results of the election bring changes to the administration as new members join the West Wing team.
Episodes:
- 7A WF 83429
- The Dogs of War
- Jefferson Lives
- Han
- Constituency of One
- Disaster Relief
- Separation of Powers
- Shutdown
- Abu el Banat
- The Stormy Present
- The Benign Prerogative
- Slow News Day
- The Warfare of Genghis Khan
- An Khe
- Full Disclosure
- Eppur Si Muove
- The Supremes
- A
- ccess
- Talking Points
- No Exit
- Gaza
- Memorial Day
Season 6 (2004-2005)
A new presidential campaign is introduced as President Bartlet’s final year approaches.
Episodes:
- NSF Thurmont
- The Birnam Wood
- Third-Day Story
- Liftoff
- The Hubbert Peak
- The Dover Test
- A Change Is Gonna Come
- In The Room
- Impact Winter
- Faith Based Initiative
- Opposition Research
- 365 Days
- King Corn
- The Wake Up Call
- Freedonia
- Drought Conditions
- A Good Day
- La Palabra
- Ninety Miles Away
- In God We Trust
- Things Fall Apart
- 2162 Votes
Season 7 (2005-2006)
The final season concludes with the election of Bartlet’s successor a new West Wing team.
Episodes:
- The Ticket
- The Mommy Problem
- Message of the Week
- Mr. Frost
- Here Today
- The Al Smith Dinner
- The Debate
- Undecideds
- The Wedding
- Running Mates
- Internal Displacement
- Duck and Cover
- The Cold
- Two Weeks Out
- Welcome to Wherever You Are
- Election Day: Part 1
- Election Day: Part 2
- Requiem
- Transition
- The Last Hurrah
- Institutional Memory
- Tomorrow
Where to Buy The West Wing Merch in Canada?
You can purchase unofficial, fan-made “The West Wing” merchandise like stickers, T-shirts, mugs, keychains, and more on Amazon.