After months of anticipation and swirling speculation, NBC has finally given One Chicago fans something to celebrate. As all three beloved series—Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago P.D.—gear up for their highly anticipated return, the network has confirmed some major updates that will energize long-time viewers and newcomers alike.
First things first: NBC has confirmed that Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D. will all return on the same night this fall, preserving the powerful “One Chicago Wednesday” tradition that fans have come to love. This scheduling decision ensures that viewers can continue to immerse themselves in the interconnected stories of Chicago’s first responders without interruption.
One of the biggest concerns fans had entering the 2025 season was whether their favorite characters would be back. Thankfully, NBC has confirmed that the majority of the core cast from all three series will return—bringing stability and familiarity to storylines that have often been disrupted by unexpected exits in the past. Over on Chicago P.D., Jason Beghe is officially back as Hank Voight, the gritty and morally ambiguous leader of the Intelligence Unit. He’ll be joined once again by LaRoyce Hawkins (Kevin Atwater), Marina Squerciati (Kim Burgess), Patrick John Flueger (Adam Ruzek), and Benjamin Levy Aguilar (Dante Torres). However, fans should brace themselves—Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton) has confirmed that this season will be her last, setting the stage for a potentially heart-wrenching sendoff.
Chicago Fire is also coming back strong. Taylor Kinney, who took a temporary hiatus in Season 11, is returning full-time as Lieutenant Kelly Severide, much to the delight of loyal viewers. Other familiar faces include Miranda Rae Mayo (Stella Kidd), David Eigenberg (Herrmann), Joe Minoso (Cruz), and Hanako Greensmith (Violet Mikami). While Kara Killmer (Sylvie Brett) exited earlier this year, her legacy will continue to echo throughout Firehouse 51.
Fans craving more than just onscreen action will be pleased to know that production is already underway for all three series. Set photos have surfaced showing reunions between cast members, fresh filming locations, and even a few surprises that hint at crossover episodes. The showrunners have promised that this season will bring “bigger emotional staks, stronger character arcs, and some of the most dramatic scenes the franchise has ever delivered.” One Chicago’s strength has always been in its cross-show storytelling, and fans will be thrilled to hear that more crossover episodes are on the way. NBC has teased at least two major crossover events this season, which will likely unite Chicago Fire, Med, and P.D. characters for high-stakes rescues and emotionally charged emergencies.
While much of the cast is staying intact, producers have confirmed that new characters will also be introduced across the board. These additions are expected to shake things up—professionally and personally. Chicago Fire will see a new paramedic stepping into the void left by Brett’s departure. Chicago Med is adding a new trauma surgeon with a controversial past, and Chicago P.D. will reportedly introduce a federal agent that could become both an ally and an antagonist to Voight’s unit.
In an era where many long-running shows struggle to keep their audience engaged, One Chicago has remained a ratings powerhouse. Part of that success comes from the emotional connection viewers have built with these characters over the past decade. Fans tune in not just for explosions or surgeries, but to watch these flawed, courageous people grow, stumble, and find their footing again.
The return of familiar faces, the promise of major crossovers, and the emotional weight of confirmed exits all point to a season filled with passion and intensity. Social media platforms are already buzzing with theories, fan art, and tribute videos. Reddit threads and Facebook fan groups are counting down the days until premiere night. In short, the One Chicago fandom isn’t just loyal—they’re deeply emotionally invested. And NBC seems to be honoring that loyalty with a season designed to reward long-time viewers while still attracting new audiences.
With its new seasons just around the corner, the One Chicago franchise is poised for one of its most exciting chapters yet. NBC has clearly heard the fans, delivering the kind of updates that generate buzz, build excitement, and renew faith in the longevity of these interconnected shows. From confirmed cast returns to new characters, from dramatic storylines to emotional exits, One Chicago is firing on all cylinders. Whether you’re a die-hard fan who’s watched since Day 1 or a newcomer ready to dive into the Windy City’s most compelling dramas, this is the perfect time to (re)join the ride.
