ABC has officially announced the renewal of several popular TV series for the upcoming 2025–26 broadcast season. Fans of dramas and comedies alike can rejoice as favorites such as 9-1-1, The Rookie, and Grey’s Anatomy return with new seasons.
The list of renewed shows includes:
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9-1-1 (Season 9)
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Grey’s Anatomy (Season 22)
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The Rookie (Season 8)
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Shifting Gears (Season 2)
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Will Trent (Season 4)
These renewals join earlier confirmations of Abbott Elementary (Season 5) and High Potential (Season 2). ABC’s programming will also feature the highly anticipated spin-off 9-1-1: Nashville, starring Chris O’Donnell. These titles will make up the network’s core primetime lineup for the 2025–26 TV season.
Doctor Odyssey’s Fate Still Unclear
One show remains in limbo: Doctor Odyssey, starring Joshua Jackson. While the medical drama draws a respectable 4.9 million viewers per week, it retains only 77% of the audience from its lead-in, 9-1-1. That’s only slightly better than Grey’s Anatomy’s retention in the same time slot last season.
Despite this, ABC is reportedly still engaged in ongoing creative discussions with the show’s producers about a potential second season. A final decision on its future will be made later. Doctor Odyssey stands as the only major scripted series from ABC this season without a confirmed renewal or cancellation.
Ratings Breakdown: Which Shows Are Thriving and Which Are Struggling?
ABC aired six scripted drama series this season. Here’s how they stack up in terms of audience:
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High Potential tops the list with an average of just over 7 million weekly viewers, including Live+7 playback numbers.
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Will Trent comes in second place, continuing its steady momentum from previous seasons.
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9-1-1, despite being a recent addition to ABC’s lineup after moving from FOX, ranks third.
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The Rookie holds the fourth spot, remaining a reliable performer.
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Doctor Odyssey follows in fifth place, leaving Grey’s Anatomy at the bottom of the rankings this season.
Grey’s Anatomy, once a ratings juggernaut, appears to be slowing down. Though still popular, the show is now being outperformed by newer titles and spin-offs.
Shifting Gears Becomes ABC’s Comedy Standout
ABC’s sitcom lineup has seen a notable standout this season: Shifting Gears. As the most-watched comedy on the network this year (among three sitcoms), it has established itself as a strong contender in the genre.
On a broader scale, Shifting Gears currently ranks No. 3 among all broadcast network sitcoms, behind only CBS’ hits Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage and Ghosts. Its blend of heart and humor seems to have resonated well with audiences, positioning it for even greater success in Season 2.
What to Expect from ABC in 2025–26
ABC’s upcoming season promises to balance fan-favorite legacy series with fresh content. The continued success of High Potential and Will Trent proves that audiences are hungry for engaging, character-driven stories.
Meanwhile, returning staples like Grey’s Anatomy, The Rookie, and 9-1-1 will provide viewers with the familiarity and continuity they’ve come to expect from ABC’s primetime lineup.
The new spin-off, 9-1-1: Nashville, is expected to breathe new life into the franchise, with Chris O’Donnell leading a fresh cast and a new setting that could offer exciting storylines and emotional drama.
As for Doctor Odyssey, its uncertain fate leaves a gap that could be filled by midseason pickups or new series in development. If renewed, it may undergo retooling to improve retention and storytelling.
Final Thoughts: A Season of Evolution and Risk
The 2025–26 broadcast season signals a bold shift for ABC. With a lineup blending legacy programming and promising new titles, the network appears committed to both innovation and audience loyalty.
From powerful medical dramas and fast-paced procedurals to heartfelt comedies and high-stakes spin-offs, ABC’s schedule is shaping up to offer something for everyone. Whether viewers stick with the classics or dive into the new, it’s clear ABC is aiming to stay at the forefront of primetime entertainment.
Stay tuned — especially to see what happens with Doctor Odyssey.
