NBC is making waves again, and this time, it’s all about reigniting one of its most beloved franchises: One Chicago. In a recent media address, NBC Chairman Mark Lazarus pulled back the curtain on an ambitious strategy to take the franchise—comprised of Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med—to new heights. His vision is clear: to not only preserve the legacy of One Chicago, but to transform it into a global television powerhouse.
For over a decade, One Chicago has captivated audiences with emotionally gripping narratives centered around the city’s firefighters, police officers, and medical staff. It has become a midweek ritual for millions of viewers who tune in every Wednesday to follow the lives of these dedicated public servants. But as television enters a new era of streaming wars and changing viewer habits, Lazarus emphasized that standing still is not an option. “We’re evolving,” he said. “The world is changing, and One Chicago must grow with it.”
One of the most immediate and exciting parts of NBC’s strategy involves a creative overhaul. While the existing shows will retain their signature style and tone, new voices are being brought in to enrich the storytelling. Lazarus confirmed that a team of fresh writers, producers, and directors is joining the creative process to ensure the franchise feels contemporary, relevant, and emotionally grounded. According to Lazarus, “We’re diving deeper into our characters’ personal journeys—exploring the sacrifices they make, the trauma they carry, and the relationships that keep them going. This is where our strength lies.”
NBC isn’t just thinking about what happens on-screen—it’s also focusing on how audiences access the content. A significant component of the strategy is expanding One Chicago’s digital and international footprint. In addition to continuing its presence on Peacock, NBC is actively negotiating partnerships with global streaming services to make the franchise available to a wider, worldwide audience. Lazarus noted that select episodes and full seasons will soon appear on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime in several regions, introducing new viewers to the universe for the first time.
“We believe that One Chicago has the power to connect with audiences far beyond North America,” Lazarus said. “The themes of bravery, duty, and humanity are universal. By making the franchise globally accessible, we’re setting the stage for international growth like never before.”
