As fall television returns in full swing, fans of NBC’s One Chicago franchise—Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago P.D.—are buzzing with anticipation. With cliffhangers still lingering from last season’s finales and big changes looming for several characters, viewers are eager to know which cast members are returning and how many episodes they can expect from each show this upcoming season. Fortunately, NBC has finally revealed the key details for the 2025-2026 season, and we’ve got the scoop.
Let’s break down who’s coming back, which surprises are in store, and how many episodes each series will bring to your screen this fall. The ER is buzzing with returning faces and a few noticeable absences. After a surprising departure last season, Chicago Med is re-centering itself around its remaining core cast. Fans will be pleased to know that Dominic Rains (Dr. Crockett Marcel), S. Epatha Merkerson (Sharon Goodwin), and Marlyne Barrett (Maggie Lockwood) will continue their vital roles. Jessy Schram (Dr. Hannah Asher) is also confirmed to return, with her character expected to take on more leadership responsibilities as the hospital evolves. However, following the exits of longtime characters like Dr. Will Halstead and Dr. Ethan Choi in recent years, Med will introduce at least one new attending physician and a fresh batch of residents to breathe new life into Gaffney Chicago Medical Center.
All three One Chicago shows will air 18 episodes this fall—a number that balances viewer demand with production efficiency. Coming off several years of industry instability due to strikes and scheduling disruptions, the 18-episode model allows for compact, high-quality seasons that maintain momentum without dragging out storylines. NBC executives have emphasized their commitment to keeping the One Chicago franchise strong and sustainable. Shorter seasons mean fewer filler episodes, tighter pacing, and better creative direction—all of which have been praised by fans and critics alike in recent years.
No One Chicago season would be complete without the possibility of a heart-pounding crossover event. While nothing has been officially confirmed, insiders suggest that a limited crossover—possibly a two-part event involving Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D.—is on the table for early 2026. In past seasons, crossovers have been used to highlight major emergencies or unify character arcs across the three shows. Given the transitions many characters are facing, a crossover could serve as a narrative bridge and a fan-favorite moment of unity.
Even with cast changes and evolving storylines, One Chicago remains one of the most dependable franchises on network television. Created by Dick Wolf, the franchise has not only maintained strong ratings but also built a dedicated fan community across platforms. With Season 13 of Chicago Fire, Season 11 of Chicago Med, and Season 12 of Chicago P.D. on the way, NBC is signaling that there’s still plenty of fuel in the tank. The returning cast members bring with them years of character development, emotional investment, and fan loyalty. And with new blood entering the scene, the franchise is clearly committed to keeping things fresh while honoring the elements that made it a hit in the first place.
As autumn arrives and Wednesdays once again become synonymous with heart-stopping rescues, life-and-death decisions, and morally complex cases, One Chicago fans can rest assured that their favorite shows are in good hands. With all three series returning for 18 episodes and a solid mix of familiar faces and exciting changes, the 2025–2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most emotionally satisfying yet. Whether you’re Team Firehouse 51, a die-hard fan of the Med gang, or loyal to the Intelligence Unit, this fall’s return of One Chicago promises stories that matter, characters that evolve, and moments that will stick with viewers long after the credits roll.
