Why Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. Aren’t Airing New Episodes Tonight – And What’s Coming Next

This mid-season scheduling break isn’t entirely unexpected. Networks often pause airing new content due to production timelines, seasonal breaks, or to strategically build anticipation before a big storyline kicks off. The good news is this isn’t a long-term hiatus. Both Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. are officially scheduled to return with brand new episodes next week — on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

What to Expect When Chicago Fire Returns

When Chicago Fire returns, it will do so with Season 13, Episode 18, titled “Post-Mortem.” This episode is especially significant because it marks the return of one of the show’s original stars — Eamonn Walker as Wallace Boden. After stepping away from his full-time role, Boden’s return is set to stir up both emotional and professional tension at Firehouse 51. Longtime fans of the show can expect heartfelt reunions, strong leadership moments, and possibly a turning point in the season’s overarching plot. The storyline of Chicago Fire Season 13 has been an emotional rollercoaster already — juggling high-risk rescues, personal sacrifices, and changes in the firehouse’s dynamics. Boden’s return promises to anchor the team just when they need it most, and we may even see hints about his future with the department.

What’s Next for Chicago P.D.

Meanwhile, Chicago P.D. continues to push boundaries with its gritty, character-driven storytelling. Season 12 has delved deep into the emotional toll that working in Intelligence takes on the team. From Ruzek grappling with trauma to Upton navigating tough moral decisions, the show has not held back. While NBC hasn’t released the title or synopsis of next week’s P.D. episode just yet, fans can expect the high-stakes drama to continue. The unit is still facing new threats, dangerous criminals, and internal conflicts. There’s also buzz among fans about whether the show will begin teasing any significant departures or promotions as the season edges closer to its finale.

Where to Watch Until Then

Can’t wait until next week? You’re not alone. But there’s a silver lining — you can stream previous episodes of Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and even Chicago Med anytime on Peacock, NBC’s official streaming platform. It’s a great time to revisit earlier episodes, especially if you want to brush up on character arcs or rewatch some of the emotional scenes that made you a fan in the first place. You can also catch behind-the-scenes interviews, sneak peeks, and exclusive content on NBC’s official site or the One Chicago social media pages. And who knows? You might uncover a few hints about what’s coming next for your favorite characters.

Mark Your Calendars

So, while there are no new episodes tonight, rest assured — your mid-week Chicago fix is just around the corner. On April 16, 2025, both Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. return with new developments, returning faces, and gripping storylines that promise to keep you at the edge of your seat. In the world of One Chicago, absence makes the heart grow fonder — and next week, the city’s firefighters and police officers are coming back stronger than ever.