The One Chicago franchise—comprising Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D.—has been a cornerstone of NBC’s Wednesday night lineup for years. Fans were recently buzzing with concern when reports surfaced suggesting these beloved shows were about to be pulled from the schedule. Fortunately, it’s not a cancellation or permanent removal. Instead, it’s a temporary hiatus due to major programming priorities: the 2026 Winter Olympics coverage on NBC.
In this in-depth article, we’ll break down exactly what’s happening, when the shows will be off the air, why this schedule change is occurring, what fans can expect upon their return (including an exciting crossover event), and how this fits into the bigger picture for the One Chicago universe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the firefighters, doctors, or Intelligence Unit, here’s everything you need to know.
Understanding the One Chicago Franchise
The One Chicago series, created by Dick Wolf, forms an interconnected universe set in the Windy City. Launched with Chicago Fire in 2012, the franchise expanded to include Chicago P.D. (2014) and Chicago Med (2015). These procedurals blend high-stakes drama, emotional storylines, and frequent crossovers, making Wednesday nights a must-watch for millions.
- Chicago Fire (currently in Season 14) follows the firefighters and paramedics of Firehouse 51, tackling intense rescues while navigating personal challenges.
- Chicago Med (Season 11 ongoing) dives into the chaotic world of Gaffney Chicago Medical Center, exploring ethical dilemmas in healthcare.
- Chicago P.D. (Season 13) centers on the elite Intelligence Unit, dealing with crime, corruption, and moral gray areas in law enforcement.
The shows regularly feature guest appearances from each other’s casts, building a rich, shared world that keeps viewers hooked season after season.
The Schedule Change: When Are Chicago Fire, Med, and PD Being Pulled?
According to NBC’s official programming announcements and reliable sources like One Chicago Center, the three shows will be temporarily removed from the Wednesday night schedule starting February 11, 2026. They will remain off the air through Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
This break aligns perfectly with NBC’s extensive coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics, which take priority over regular scripted programming. The Olympics, held in Milan-Cortina, Italy, will dominate NBC’s primetime slots during this period, featuring live events, highlights, and special programming.
After the Olympics wrap up, the One Chicago block returns stronger than ever on March 4, 2026, with a massive three-hour event that fans have been anticipating.
Why the Break? The Role of the Winter Olympics
NBC has a long history of preempting regular series for Olympic coverage. Major sporting events like the Winter Games draw huge audiences and advertising revenue, often leading to temporary pauses in scripted shows.
In this case:
- The hiatus begins after the episodes airing in early February 2026.
- No new episodes of Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, or Chicago P.D. will air from February 11 to March 3.
- This gives NBC uninterrupted time to broadcast Olympic events without splitting viewer attention.
It’s worth noting this isn’t unusual. Similar breaks occurred during past Olympics (Summer and Winter), and the shows have always returned successfully afterward. The current seasons are performing solidly in ratings, with no indication of cancellation—NBC has already positioned them for long-term success.
The Big Return: 2026 One Chicago Crossover Event
The most exciting part? The shows don’t just come back quietly—they explode back onto screens with a full three-show crossover on March 4, 2026.
NBC has confirmed that the evening will feature back-to-back-to-back episodes across Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D., following one continuous storyline. This event promises high drama, as characters from all three series team up to handle a city-wide crisis (details on the plot are still emerging, but expect emergency response, medical urgency, and investigative tension).
Notably, the air order has seen a shakeup for this special night:
- Chicago Fire airs first at 8/7c (a departure from the usual Med-led block).
- Chicago Med follows at 9/7c.
- Chicago P.D. closes out at 10/7c.
This adjustment allows the crossover to flow naturally from fire/rescue elements into medical and police action. It’s a rare treat for fans, as full three-show crossovers are highlights of the franchise.
How to Watch During the Hiatus and Beyond
While the shows are off NBC’s linear schedule:
- Catch up on past episodes via Peacock (NBC’s streaming service), where new episodes typically drop the day after airing.
- Reruns or marathon blocks may appear on USA Network or other NBCUniversal channels.
- For international viewers, check local broadcasters or streaming platforms like Netflix (availability varies by region).
When they return in March:
- Tune in Wednesdays at 8/7c on NBC.
- Stream next-day on Peacock.
- Stay tuned for official NBC promos teasing the crossover.
Fan Reactions and What This Means for the Future
Social media and fan communities (including Reddit, X, and dedicated sites like One Chicago Center) have been abuzz since the announcement. Many expressed initial worry that “pulled from the schedule” meant cancellation—thankfully, it’s just a short Olympic break.
Long-term, the franchise looks healthy:
- Renewals for the current seasons.
- Strong ensemble casts.
- Consistent crossovers and event programming.
The temporary pause actually builds anticipation, especially with the crossover serving as a “welcome back” blockbuster.
Conclusion: Don’t Panic—One Chicago Is Just Pausing for Gold Medals
In summary, Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago P.D. are indeed being pulled from NBC’s schedule starting February 11, 2026, but only temporarily. The break lasts until March 4, 2026, due to the 2026 Winter Olympics. When the shows return, they’ll deliver one of the biggest events in franchise history: a three-series crossover airing back-to-back.
For loyal fans, this is an opportunity to rewatch favorites, speculate about crossover plots, and gear up for more heart-pounding Chicago drama. The One Chicago universe isn’t going anywhere—it’s simply making room for the Olympics before roaring back stronger.
Stay tuned to NBC and Peacock for updates, and mark your calendars for March 4. Chicago’s heroes will be back before you know it.
