As the 2025–2026 broadcast season barrels toward its finale, one question dominates Hollywood chatter and fan forums alike: Which NBC shows are coming back — and which are quietly heading for the exit?
The annual renewal bloodbath is always part ratings math, part strategic gamble. For NBC, 2026 feels especially pivotal. With shifting streaming habits, evolving franchise fatigue, and a fiercely competitive landscape across broadcast and streaming platforms, the network’s decisions will shape its brand identity for years to come.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the most likely renewals, the bubble shows, and the probable cancellations heading into 2026 — along with what it all means for viewers.
🔥 The Powerhouse Franchises: Almost Guaranteed Renewals
## Chicago Fire
The flagship of the One Chicago universe remains one of NBC’s most reliable performers. Despite cast shakeups in recent seasons, Chicago Fire continues to deliver steady live ratings and strong next-day streaming numbers on Peacock.
With its loyal fan base and syndication value, cancellation is highly unlikely. Expect at least one more season — and possibly further crossovers to boost franchise synergy.
Status: Very likely renewed.
## Chicago P.D.
While ratings have softened slightly compared to earlier seasons, Chicago P.D. remains a consistent Wednesday-night anchor. Its gritty tone continues to differentiate it from procedural competitors.
NBC values stability, and this show provides exactly that.
Status: Highly likely renewed.
## Chicago Med
The medical arm of the One Chicago trio has experienced the most fluctuation in ratings among the three. However, its international sales and streaming strength make it financially viable.
NBC has historically preferred keeping the trilogy intact.
Status: Likely renewed (though negotiations could tighten budgets).
🚔 The Law & Order Brand: A Mixed Bag
## Law & Order
The revival has been steady but not explosive. Still, the franchise’s legacy value is immense. NBC rarely walks away from a brand this iconic unless ratings collapse dramatically.
Status: Probable renewal.
## Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Now deep into its historic run, SVU continues to defy aging-curve expectations. Anchored by Mariska Hargitay, the show remains one of NBC’s strongest scripted performers.
The only real question is cast contracts — not audience interest.
Status: Almost certain renewal.
🧪 Bubble Territory: The Shows at Risk
## Quantum Leap
The reboot generated early buzz but has struggled to maintain momentum. Its ratings hover near the lower threshold for network survival.
Streaming performance could be its saving grace — but it’s a toss-up.
Status: On the bubble.
## Night Court
Multi-camera comedies are increasingly rare on broadcast TV. While Night Court benefits from nostalgia, its ratings are modest.
NBC must decide whether brand familiarity outweighs performance metrics.
Status: 50/50 chance.
📉 Likely Cancellations
## Extended Family
Despite a promising cast, the sitcom never gained significant traction. Viewership dropped sharply after its premiere.
Unless Peacock engagement numbers dramatically surprise executives, cancellation appears imminent.
Status: Likely canceled.
## Lopez vs Lopez
The George Lopez vehicle delivered solid cultural representation but struggled to compete in crowded comedy blocks.
NBC may opt to reallocate resources toward new comedy pilots.
Status: Likely canceled.
🎤 Reality and Unscripted: The Safer Bets
NBC’s reality slate remains comparatively stable.
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The Voice continues as a dependable tentpole.
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America’s Got Talent remains a summer juggernaut.
These franchises are virtually immune to cancellation unless ratings collapse — which currently seems unlikely.
📊 The Strategic Big Picture
NBC’s renewal strategy reflects broader industry realities:
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Franchise Loyalty Matters
Established brands provide predictable returns. -
Streaming Integration Is Key
Peacock performance increasingly influences renewal decisions. -
Cost Efficiency Over Volume
Fewer, stronger shows appear to be the 2026 strategy. -
Nostalgia Isn’t a Guarantee
Reboots must perform — brand recognition alone isn’t enough.
🎬 What This Means for NBC in 2026
If projections hold, NBC’s 2026 lineup will lean heavily on:
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The One Chicago universe
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The Law & Order brand
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Reliable reality competitions
Riskier scripted experiments may shrink in favor of strategic franchise reinforcement.
📝 Final Thoughts
Network television in 2026 isn’t just about ratings — it’s about ecosystem value. Syndication, streaming synergy, and production budgets all weigh heavily in renewal decisions.
For fans, that means beloved franchises are safe — but smaller, riskier shows face steeper odds.
As always, nothing is official until NBC makes its formal announcements. But based on current performance trends and industry patterns, the above outlook represents the most realistic snapshot of where the network is headed.
Stay tuned — because in television, surprises are always part of the script.
