After more than a decade of thrilling storylines, unforgettable characters, and jaw-dropping crossovers, NBC has confirmed what fans have long hoped for: the One Chicago universe is expanding once again. This fall, a brand-new series will join the beloved franchise, marking an exciting new chapter in the shared universe that already includes Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med.
NBC made the official announcement earlier this week, confirming that production is underway on the yet-to-be-titled fourth installment. The new series promises to bring fresh energy and a new perspective to the One Chicago lineup, while still staying true to the franchise’s gritty realism, emotional depth, and action-packed storytelling.
Launched in 2012 with Chicago Fire, the One Chicago franchise quickly became a network juggernaut. The addition of Chicago P.D. in 2014 and Chicago Med in 2015 solidified its status as a must-watch block of television. For years, fans have spent their Wednesday nights immersed in the lives of Chicago’s firefighters, police officers, and medical professionals—stories grounded in heroism, heartbreak, and humanity. Now, with a new series officially greenlit for fall 2025, the universe created by television powerhouse Dick Wolf is growing once again—and it’s not just for the sake of expansion. According to insiders, this fourth show will fill a storytelling gap fans didn’t know they needed.
While the title and full cast have not yet been revealed, early reports suggest the show will center around the legal system in Chicago—possibly a Chicago Justice reboot or spiritual successor. It could focus on prosecutors, public defenders, and judges working within the Cook County legal system, highlighting the complexities of the courtroom and the difficult decisions made behind the scenes. Fans may recall that NBC previously aired Chicago Justice in 2017, which was canceled after just one season. However, with the franchise now more popular than ever and fans craving interconnected storylines, NBC may be revisiting the legal drama concept with a refined approach and stronger integration with the other One Chicago shows.
If this is indeed a reimagined legal series, it would complete a powerful quartet—fire, police, medicine, and law—mirroring the success of Dick Wolf’s Law & Order franchise, which spans police, legal, and FBI units. While NBC is keeping most of the details under wraps, here’s what has been confirmed or strongly hinted at:
-
The new show will premiere during NBC’s Fall 2025 lineup, airing on Wednesday nights alongside the other One Chicago series.
-
There will be crossover potential. Characters from Chicago P.D., Med, and Fire are expected to appear in the new series, especially in the pilot episode to help establish continuity and draw in fans.
-
At least one existing character from the One Chicago universe may transfer to the new show, either as a lead or recurring role.
-
Casting is currently underway, with a mix of familiar TV faces and fresh talent expected to join the ensemble.
-
Production will begin in Chicago this summer, with on-location shoots continuing the franchise’s commitment to realism and authenticity.
Unsurprisingly, the news has sent fans into a frenzy. Social media has been flooded with theories, wish lists, and pure excitement. Some are hoping for the return of fan-favorite characters like Peter Stone (played by Philip Winchester) or Anna Valdez (Monica Barbaro), while others are eager to meet a brand-new team of legal warriors.
The idea of watching Intelligence’s cases go from arrest to courtroom has longtime fans thrilled. “I’ve always wanted to see Voight’s cases play out in court,” one fan tweeted. “This could be the missing piece that brings everything full circle.” Even cast members from the other One Chicago shows have expressed their excitement. In a recent interview, Chicago Med’s Nick Gehlfuss said, “There’s always room for more stories in Chicago. I think this new series will add a whole new dimension to what we already do.”
There’s no denying that network television is changing. With streaming platforms dominating viewership, franchises like One Chicago continue to be rare success stories in live broadcasting. NBC knows the value of this universe—not just in terms of ratings, but in building loyal, emotionally invested audiences. Expanding the franchise is both a smart business move and a creative opportunity. After more than 500 combined episodes, the One Chicago universe still has plenty of stories to tell. By branching into new territory, the writers can explore timely issues like criminal justice reform, civil rights, systemic failures, and ethical dilemmas—grounded in the real-life challenges facing Chicago and cities across America.
Fans can expect more details in the coming months, including casting announcements, plot teasers, and—of course—a trailer. NBC is likely to promote the new series heavily during the fall premieres of Chicago Fire, P.D., and Med. Don’t be surprised if the new show is introduced with a major crossover event, following in the footsteps of One Chicago’s most iconic multi-show episodes. And if history is any indication, this won’t just be a show—it will be an event. Every One Chicago series has carved out its own identity while contributing to the larger narrative web. This new installment promises to be no different.
