As the network prepares to unveil its 2025-2026 primetime schedule to advertisers next week, NBC announced on Monday that it has renewed its popular #OneChicago franchise, comprised of “Chicago Med,” “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago P.D.”
Ranking as the most-watched drama franchise on broadcast television, collectively the shows have amassed nearly 46 million total viewers season-to-date across NBC and streaming service Peacock, with the broadcast network dominating Wednesday nights as a result.
Executive produced by Dick Wolf, Allen MacDonald, Stephen Hootstein and Peter Jankowski, “Chicago Med” is heading into Season 11, while “Chicago Fire,” executive produced by Wolf, Andrea Newman, Reza Tabrizi, Matt Whitney and Jankowski, is set to enter its 14th season on the network. Meanwhile, “Chicago P.D.,” executive produced by Wolf, Gwen Sigan, Chad Saxton, Gavin Harris, Jason Beghe and Jankowski, will head into the fall for Season 13.
According to a report by Deadline, the cost-saving measure put in place ahead of the 2022-2023 season, wherein the “minimum guarantees” for much of the show’s cast, including the “Law & Order” franchise cast, will remain in place. This means that series regulars will not appear in every episode produced. It’s said the range going into next season will see the episode count reduced by at least two to four episodes.
Additionally, it’s being reported that cast members are being asked to take up residence in Illinois. Those who choose not to do so can expect to see a further reduction. Separately, some cast members will not receive their annual 5% raises.
In terms of episode orders, while an official number has not yet been set, it’s understood that each series will also see an overall reduction in how many episodes will be produced as part of an industry-wide cost-cutting measure.
While the shows themselves have been renewed for next season, some veteran cast contracts are up for renewal this season, including “Chicago Fire” star Taylor Kinney (Lieutenant Kelly Severide). Negotiations are currently underway on new deals.
“Chicago Med” airs Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT, followed by “Chicago Fire” at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT and “Chicago P.D.” at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.
All three series are produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Wolf Entertainment.