As the television industry moves deeper into the 2025–2026 season, networks are beginning to make critical decisions about which shows will stay, which will go, and which are still hanging in the balance. Among them, NBC finds itself at the center of attention once again, with a lineup that blends long-running procedural giants and promising new entries.
From the powerhouse franchises of Chicago franchise and Law & Order franchise to newer titles like The Hunting Party, Brilliant Minds, and Stumble, NBC’s renewal slate reflects both stability and experimentation.
Here’s a full breakdown of where things stand.
The Pillars Remain Strong: ‘Chicago’ Franchise
The Chicago universe—comprising Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med—continues to be one of NBC’s most reliable assets. Despite shifting viewing habits and increased competition from streaming platforms, these shows remain consistent performers both in live ratings and delayed viewing.
Insiders suggest that NBC has little hesitation in renewing all three series for another season. While minor cast adjustments and budget recalibrations are expected, the overall structure of the franchise appears secure.
What keeps the Chicago shows alive isn’t just their ratings—it’s their loyal fan base. These series have built a community that actively engages on social media, ensuring continued relevance even in a fragmented media landscape.
Additionally, the interconnected storytelling format allows NBC to maintain a shared universe that encourages cross-viewership. A fan tuning in for Chicago Fire is likely to stick around for Chicago P.D., creating a ripple effect that boosts the entire lineup.
Still a Heavyweight: ‘Law & Order’ Franchise
The Law & Order franchise remains another cornerstone of NBC’s programming strategy. With multiple iterations currently airing, including Law & Order, SVU, and Organized Crime, the brand continues to hold significant cultural weight.
Although ratings have slightly softened compared to peak years, the franchise still performs well enough to justify renewal—especially considering its strong international syndication value.
Sources close to the network indicate that NBC is leaning toward renewing all active Law & Order series, though discussions around episode counts and production costs are ongoing.
Interestingly, the franchise’s endurance lies in its adaptability. Storylines evolve with current events, keeping the content fresh while maintaining the familiar procedural structure audiences expect.
New Contender: ‘The Hunting Party’
Among NBC’s newer offerings, The Hunting Party has generated considerable buzz. Positioned as a high-stakes thriller with serialized storytelling, the show aims to capture audiences looking for something more intense than traditional procedurals.
Early ratings have been modest but stable, and streaming numbers tell a more encouraging story. Industry analysts believe NBC is taking a “wait-and-see” approach before making a final renewal decision.
Behind the scenes, there’s optimism. The show has been praised for its cinematic quality and character-driven narrative, elements that could help it grow in future seasons.
If renewed, The Hunting Party could represent NBC’s attempt to diversify beyond its procedural-heavy lineup and tap into a more binge-worthy format.
A Smart Bet: ‘Brilliant Minds’
Brilliant Minds has quietly emerged as one of NBC’s more intriguing freshman series. Blending medical drama with psychological storytelling, the show offers a fresh twist on a familiar genre.
Critics have responded positively, highlighting its emotional depth and unique case-of-the-week structure. While ratings haven’t been explosive, they’ve been consistent enough to warrant serious renewal consideration.
NBC executives reportedly see long-term potential in Brilliant Minds, particularly as audiences increasingly gravitate toward character-driven narratives.
If renewed, the show may receive a larger marketing push in its second season, positioning it as a key part of NBC’s evolving identity.
The Wild Card: ‘Stumble’
Perhaps the most uncertain title on NBC’s slate is Stumble. The comedy has struggled to find a strong foothold in both ratings and audience engagement.
While some viewers appreciate its offbeat humor, the show has yet to achieve the kind of breakout success needed to secure an easy renewal.
Industry insiders describe its status as “on the bubble,” meaning its fate could go either way depending on late-season performance and internal strategic decisions.
That said, NBC has occasionally surprised audiences by renewing underperforming comedies in the past, especially if they fill a specific niche within the schedule.
The Bigger Picture: Strategy Behind the Decisions
NBC’s renewal decisions are not made in isolation. They reflect broader industry trends, including:
- The shift toward streaming and on-demand viewing
- The rising cost of production
- The importance of franchise stability
- The need for fresh, original content
By renewing established franchises like Chicago and Law & Order, NBC ensures a stable foundation. At the same time, shows like The Hunting Party and Brilliant Minds represent calculated risks aimed at attracting new audiences.
Stumble, meanwhile, highlights the ongoing challenge of launching successful comedies in today’s competitive landscape.
What to Expect Moving Forward
While official announcements are expected in the coming months, current indicators suggest:
- The Chicago franchise will almost certainly return
- The Law & Order franchise remains safe, though possibly adjusted
- Brilliant Minds has strong renewal potential
- The Hunting Party is cautiously optimistic
- Stumble faces the greatest uncertainty
Ultimately, NBC’s decisions will shape not only its own future but also the broader television landscape.