NBC is turning up the heat on Wednesday nights. The One Chicago franchise—Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago P.D.—has officially received extended episode orders for the upcoming 2025–2026 season, signaling a renewed commitment to its flagship drama lineup.
According to insiders, each show will now produce 24 episodes, up from the typical 20–22. The move comes after a shortened Season 12 due to industry strikes, and NBC is eager to deliver more content to its loyal Wednesday audience.
So what does this mean for fans?
For starters, the expanded season allows for more in-depth character arcs and longer narrative payoffs. Storylines that may have been rushed—like the emotional aftermath of Jay Halstead’s departure on Chicago P.D. or the shifting leadership at Chicago Med—will now have room to breathe. Writers are also reportedly planning cross-show arcs that tie together the departments in more meaningful ways.
Production will face tighter turnarounds, but the cast and crew are said to be energized by the opportunity. “It’s ambitious, but the stories we want to tell this year deserve the space,” one source shared.
Critics have praised One Chicago for balancing high-stakes emergencies with grounded emotional storytelling. With more episodes, the franchise has a chance to dive even deeper—offering procedural drama fans more of what they love: high-octane rescues, romantic entanglements, moral dilemmas, and of course, cross-department chaos.
NBC’s message is clear: One Chicago isn’t just surviving—it’s expanding. And with 24 episodes per series, there’s never been a better time to tune in.
