Major broadcast networks have revealed their plans for the 2026 fall television season. The schedule includes several new series, returning favorites, and significant time slot shifts. This guide breaks down the key changes for ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and The CW.
New Series Coming to Broadcast Networks in Fall 2026
Each network is introducing fresh programming. ABC is adding a drama titled “Rescue HQ” from producer Shonda Rhimes. The show focuses on the professional and personal lives of first responders at a major city emergency dispatch center. It will air on Mondays at 10/9c.
CBS has ordered “Heartland Justice,” a legal drama set in a small Montana town. The series stars Michael Weatherly as a former big-city lawyer who returns to his hometown. It is scheduled for Fridays at 9/8c.
NBC is launching two new shows. A comedy called “The Mix-Up” will join the Thursday night lineup. Fox is bringing back the action genre with “Renegade,” a show about a former special forces soldier turned vigilante. The CW continues its strategy with “Gothic,” a supernatural teen drama based on a popular book series.
Major Schedule Changes and Returning Favorites
Several established shows are moving to new nights and times. On ABC, the hit drama “The Good Doctor” is shifting from Monday to Tuesday at 10/9c. This move is designed to anchor a stronger night of drama programming.
CBS is making a big change by moving “NCIS” from its long-standing Tuesday slot to Monday at 8/7c. This creates a powerful two-hour block with “NCIS: Hawai’i” remaining at 9/8c. The network’s popular comedy “Ghosts” will stay on Thursday nights.
NBC’s “Chicago” franchise (Fire, Med, P.D.) will remain in its dominant Wednesday night position. The network’s reality competition “The Voice” will continue to air on Monday and Tuesday nights. Fox is keeping “The Simpsons” and “Family Guy on Sunday, while its drama “9-1-1” stays on Monday.
Streaming and Midseason Plans for 2026-2027
Networks have also outlined their midseason replacement strategies. ABC has a medical drama, “Code Black,” and a reboot of the classic sitcom “The Nanny” ready for midseason. CBS is preparing a new “CSI” sequel series set in New York and a comedy starring Mayim Bialik.
NBC has a high-profile adaptation of the video game “The Last of Us” for midseason, though it is a separate project from the HBO series. Fox is developing a new culinary competition show and a drama based on a true crime podcast. The CW has several acquired international series and young adult dramas in reserve.
Industry analysts note that the 2026 schedules reflect a continued focus on reliable procedural dramas and franchise programming. The number of new scripted series is slightly lower than in previous years, with networks opting for safer bets in a competitive market.
“Our goal for the fall is stability with strategic innovation,” said an ABC executive in a recent press statement. “We have strong returning shows and are excited to introduce ‘Rescue HQ’ to our audience.”
Related:
How to Watch the 2026 Fall TV Season
New episodes will premiere on their respective broadcast networks. Viewers in the United States, Canada, and Australia can watch live on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and The CW via cable, satellite, or digital antenna. Episodes are typically available for streaming on each network’s official app and website the next day.
In the United Kingdom and India, new seasons of American broadcast shows often arrive on streaming platforms like Disney+, Paramount+, and Prime Video a day after the U.S. airing. Specific international release dates are usually confirmed closer to the fall premiere week.
For more updates on your favorite shows and the latest entertainment news, keep visiting VvipTimes.
Leave a Reply