The One Chicago universe has become one of NBC’s most reliable and ambitious programming blocks. What began with Chicago Fire in 2012 quickly expanded into a sprawling narrative ecosystem that now includes Chicago P.D. and Chicago Med. Each series has carved out its own identity—Fire tackling heroic rescues and personal sacrifices, P.D. diving deep into crime and justice, and Med exploring the emotional turmoil of modern healthcare.
Together, they’ve created a storytelling synergy rarely seen in network television. Their shared universe not only boosts weekly ratings but also deepens viewer engagement, as characters frequently cross over and major events ripple across all three shows. While individual season renewals have been typical, a multi-year deal like this signals confidence from NBC in the strength, stability, and continued relevance of the One Chicago brand.
Industry insiders suggest the renewal comes at a critical time for network television, which is fighting to retain live viewership in the age of streaming. Shows like those in the One Chicago lineup offer appointment viewing—fans tune in every Wednesday to follow interconnected stories that stretch across multiple shows. NBCUniversal Chairman Frances Berwick addressed the extension, saying, “The One Chicago franchise is a cornerstone of our scripted programming. The shows have passionate fan bases, and the talent—both in front of and behind the camera—continues to raise the bar season after season. We are thrilled to continue this journey.”
The timing of the announcement is strategic. With all three shows returning in Fall 2025 after a summer hiatus, the extension injects excitement and creative momentum into production. Showrunners can now plan longer arcs, revisit unresolved plotlines, and introduce new characters with the confidence that they have multiple seasons to flesh out those developments. With the multi-year deal now secured, rumors of a fourth One Chicago series have resurfaced. Though nothing has been officially confirmed, sources close to the franchise have hinted that a show focusing on the legal system—perhaps following prosecutors and public defenders who work closely with characters from Chicago P.D.—is on the table.
Fans have long speculated about a “Chicago Law” installment to complete the universe’s procedural trifecta (medicine, firefighting, law enforcement). This renewal gives producers the creative and financial flexibility to experiment with new formats or revisit past pilot concepts. Unsurprisingly, the One Chicago cast has responded with enthusiasm to the news. Marina Squerciati (Chicago P.D.’s Kim Burgess) posted on Instagram, “Another few years of love, loss, justice, and family. Buckle up!”
Meanwhile, Joe Minoso (Chicago Fire’s Joe Cruz) wrote, “What an incredible ride it’s been. And we’re not slowing down. Thank you to the fans who keep showing up for us every single week.” Behind the scenes, showrunners have hinted that this new runway allows them to take narrative risks that previously weren’t possible. “Knowing we have a few years ahead gives us the freedom to tell more layered stories,” said Gwen Sigan, executive producer of Chicago P.D.. “We can plant seeds now and let them grow over time.”
The next chapter of One Chicago promises to be its most ambitious yet. With NBC’s full backing, the creative teams can stretch beyond the traditional season format. We may see multi-season arcs, deeper character exploration, and perhaps even special crossover events that shake the very foundation of the shared universe. As we await the return of Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D. in Fall 2025, one thing is clear: One Chicago isn’t going anywhere—and its next few years are poised to be bigger, bolder, and even more emotionally gripping than ever before.
