If you’re a die-hard fan of OneChicago, brace yourself — fall 2025 is going to be a wild ride. NBC’s trio of power dramas — Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago P.D. — are coming back, and this season is packed with surprise returns, shocking exits, and a few curveballs no one saw coming.
Let’s break it all down: who’s returning, what you can expect, and how many episodes you’ll be bingeing this fall.
The OneChicago Universe: Still Going Strong
It’s rare for a franchise to keep up its momentum year after year, but OneChicago has mastered it. Built on gritty storytelling, character-driven plots, and inter-series crossovers, this shared universe has something for everyone — firefighters, doctors, detectives, and all the drama in between.
Why This Fall Feels Bigger Than Ever
The 2024 writers’ and actors’ strikes might’ve cut last season short, but that only made the anticipation stronger. With full episode orders this fall, each show is set to deliver more emotional punches, explosive action, and much-needed answers.
Big Returns in Chicago Fire
Let’s get to the good stuff. Who’s coming back?
Taylor Kinney Is Officially Back as Kelly Severide
That’s right — after a long absence, Kinney is back full-time. Fans have missed Severide’s brooding charm and high-stakes rescues. Expect him to rejoin Truck 81 and re-ignite some unresolved tensions with Stella Kidd.
Miranda Rae Mayo Returns as Stella Kidd
Their dynamic has always been electric, and this season promises deeper exploration of their marriage, especially after Severide’s sudden exit last season.
Full Episode Count: 22 for Chicago Fire
NBC is going all in. Expect 22 action-packed episodes full of emotional arcs, firehouse drama, and high-adrenaline rescues.
Chicago P.D.: A Shift in Power and Familiar Faces
Jason Beghe Returns as Hank Voight
Voight isn’t done yet. This season, we’ll see a more introspective Voight, facing personal demons while leading Intelligence through murky waters.
Tracy Spiridakos Is Back for Her Final Season
Yes, it’s true — Hailey Upton will return for one last run. Her arc promises closure, emotional weight, and possibly a shocking twist.
Patrick John Flueger Returns as Adam Ruzek
After surviving a near-fatal shooting, Ruzek is back — stronger, more vulnerable, and ready to challenge Voight in unexpected ways.
Full Episode Count: 22 for Chicago P.D.
More case-of-the-week thrillers, but with a deeper dive into long-term arcs. Expect a powerful farewell arc for Upton.
Chicago Med: Fresh Blood and Familiar Faces
Nick Gehlfuss Not Returning as Will Halstead
That heartbreak still stings. Halstead’s departure last season created a big hole, but Med is filling it with new characters and more ensemble storytelling.
Marlyne Barrett Returns as Maggie Lockwood
After a health-related hiatus, Barrett is back to ground the ED. Expect storylines that mirror her real-life strength and resilience.
Dominic Rains Returns as Crockett Marcel
Crockett’s charisma, complexity, and questionable choices return in full force. Look for him to step into more leadership and personal challenges.
New Cast Additions on the Way
While names haven’t been confirmed yet, several fresh faces are expected to join the team — adding fresh energy and new conflicts.
Full Episode Count: 22 for Chicago Med
Medical crises, ethical dilemmas, and romance are on full display in a complete 22-episode run.
What’s New Across the Franchise
Crossovers Are Back (Sort of)
No mega-crossover has been confirmed, but subtle interwoven plots and character crossovers will sprinkle across the season.
More Personal Arcs
All three shows will dig deeper into character backstories, offering a more intimate look at your favorite heroes.
High Stakes, Real-World Themes
From gun violence and PTSD to healthcare burnout and systemic injustice, OneChicago doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff.
Who Won’t Return This Fall?
Sadly, a few favorites are missing from this fall’s lineup:
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Jesse Lee Soffer (Jay Halstead) still hasn’t confirmed any return.
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Yaya DaCosta is focused on other projects, so no Natalie Manning in Med.
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Kara Killmer’s (Sylvie Brett) future on Fire remains unclear after last season’s exit.
Behind-the-Scenes Buzz
Dick Wolf’s Vision Continues
The legendary producer remains hands-on, promising to keep the franchise grounded in real-life heroism and emotional complexity.
Episode Production Back on Track
Post-strike, writers’ rooms are buzzing, production is steady, and fans can expect consistent air dates and minimal breaks.
Why OneChicago Still Dominates Prime Time
Simple: it feels real. The heartbreak, the chaos, the impossible choices — they hit close to home. Whether you’ve followed since the pilot or just jumped in during lockdown, the emotional stakes pull you in and don’t let go.
What Fans Are Saying
Social media is lit with reactions to the returns. Taylor Kinney’s comeback especially caused a Twitter/X frenzy. And Tracy Spiridakos’ goodbye has fans grabbing tissues already.
The Verdict: OneChicago Fall 2025 Will Be Must-Watch TV
Three shows. 66 total episodes. Countless moments to laugh, cry, and scream at your screen. Whether you’re Team Fire, Med, or P.D., this season is going to deliver everything you love — and more.
So get ready to cancel your Wednesday night plans… OneChicago is back and better than ever.
