As the 2025–26 broadcast season heads into its final stretch, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: NBC is doubling down on its most reliable franchises. The network’s powerhouse brands — the trio of Chicago dramas and the iconic Law & Order duo — are widely expected to secure renewals for the 2026–27 television season, reinforcing NBC’s long-standing strategy of betting on stability, brand loyalty, and procedural storytelling that continues to resonate with audiences.
Industry insiders suggest that while official announcements may still be weeks away, negotiations are well underway, and all signs point toward another multi-show pickup that will keep Wednesday and Thursday nights firmly anchored by Dick Wolf’s television empire.
Let’s break down what’s happening — and why NBC’s likely renewal slate says so much about the current state of network television.
The Chicago Franchise: Still a Ratings Backbone
🚒 Chicago Fire
Premiering in 2012, Chicago Fire remains the flagship of NBC’s Chicago universe. Over a decade later, it continues to perform steadily in both live ratings and delayed streaming viewership. While ratings across broadcast television have naturally declined over the years, Chicago Fire has shown remarkable durability — a testament to its loyal fanbase and strong ensemble storytelling.
The drama’s ability to refresh its cast while maintaining its emotional core has been key to its longevity. Even with character exits and evolving storylines, the series continues to balance high-stakes rescues with deeply personal arcs.
Renewing Chicago Fire for 2026–27 would extend its impressive run and further cement it as one of the longest-running firefighter dramas in primetime.
🏥 Chicago Med
As the medical arm of the franchise, Chicago Med continues to thrive by focusing on character-driven ethical dilemmas layered atop intense hospital emergencies. Medical dramas are nothing new to television, but Chicago Med has carved out its niche by staying grounded in emotional realism.
Despite cast turnover over the years — common in long-running series — the show maintains a cohesive identity that appeals to both procedural fans and viewers invested in long-form character development.
NBC’s willingness to keep Chicago Med on its schedule signals confidence in the franchise’s brand consistency and cross-show synergy.
👮 Chicago P.D.
Perhaps the grittiest of the trio, Chicago P.D. has evolved significantly since its debut. The series has shifted toward darker, more psychologically complex storytelling in recent seasons, reflecting broader changes in crime drama narratives.
While police procedurals face increasing scrutiny in today’s cultural climate, Chicago P.D. has adapted by focusing more on internal conflicts, moral gray areas, and character-driven investigations rather than simplistic hero narratives.
Its consistent performance in the coveted 18–49 demographic makes it a valuable asset in NBC’s lineup — and a likely candidate for renewal once again.
The Law & Order Duo: A Franchise That Refuses to Fade
⚖️ Law & Order
Few television brands carry as much recognition as Law & Order. Originally premiering in 1990, the series was revived by NBC in 2022 — and the gamble paid off. Nostalgia combined with modernized storytelling has kept the show relevant for contemporary audiences.
The revived series leans into its classic format: the first half investigating the crime, the second half prosecuting it. That formula remains comforting in an era of increasingly serialized television.
Renewing Law & Order for 2026–27 would not only continue its historic run but also signal NBC’s commitment to procedural storytelling as a cornerstone of broadcast television.
🕵️ Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
If any series defines longevity in modern television, it’s Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Now well into its historic run, the series remains one of NBC’s most recognizable properties.
Led by Mariska Hargitay, the show continues to anchor Thursday nights and deliver steady ratings. While viewership has naturally evolved in the streaming era, SVU’s brand equity remains unmatched.
A 2026–27 renewal would extend its record as one of the longest-running primetime dramas in television history — and reaffirm NBC’s faith in character continuity as a long-term asset.
Why NBC Keeps Betting on These Franchises
In today’s fragmented media landscape, stability is currency.
Streaming platforms may dominate headlines, but broadcast networks still rely heavily on dependable, repeatable content that attracts both linear viewers and streaming audiences via Peacock and other platforms.
Dick Wolf’s franchises provide:
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Built-in audience familiarity
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Crossovers that boost live ratings
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International syndication value
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Strong performance in delayed and digital viewing
The Chicago and Law & Order brands are also advertiser-friendly, offering predictable storytelling structures and consistent weekly engagement — a rare quality in today’s experimental TV climate.
Budget Considerations and Cast Negotiations
Long-running series often face rising production costs. Veteran cast members command higher salaries, and production expenses increase over time. In recent seasons, NBC has navigated these financial realities through episode count adjustments and cast restructuring.
Sources suggest similar negotiations are happening behind the scenes for the 2026–27 season. However, none of these talks appear to threaten the overall continuation of the franchises.
Instead, strategic cost management is expected to ensure sustainability without compromising core storytelling.
The Bigger Picture: Broadcast Television in 2026
Renewing all five shows would send a strong message: traditional broadcast dramas still matter.
While new series struggle to break through in a crowded entertainment landscape, established franchises offer something invaluable — audience loyalty built over years, even decades.
NBC’s likely renewals aren’t flashy. They’re strategic.
And in today’s unpredictable television economy, strategy often beats spectacle.
