The Dick Wolf universe isn’t just a TV lineup anymore—it’s a cinematic empire. As we move deeper into 2026, the One Chicago franchise is undergoing a massive, “Marvel-level” expansion that transcends Wednesday nights on NBC. From the launch of a high-octane companion podcast to rumors of a city-wide “anarchy” crossover, the world of 51, 21, and Gaffney is getting bigger, darker, and more immersive than ever.
Here is your all-access pass to the bizarre rituals and blockbuster plans shaping the future of the Windy City.
1. THE ONE CHICAGO PODCAST: A 360° Behind-the-Scenes Pass
Launched in late 2025 and hitting its stride in January 2026, the Official One Chicago Podcast has become the franchise’s secret weapon.
The “Marvel” Blueprint: Much like the MCU’s companion series, the podcast (hosted by a rotation of stars like Marina Squerciati and Steven Weber) offers a “360-degree view” of the creative engine.
The “Thursday Drop”: Fans no longer have to wait a week for more content. Every Thursday, long-form interviews with writers and stunt coordinators break down the “how-to” of the previous night’s explosions and medical miracles.
2. THE 2026 MEGA-CROSSOVER: “City-Wide Anarchy”
Rumors from the writers’ room suggest that the May 2026 finale will be the biggest crossover in 11 years.
The Riot Arc: Building on the Chicago Fire storyline of “49% unanswered emergency calls,” the 2026 crossover is rumored to involve massive, city-wide riots.
The Stakes: Unlike previous crossovers that focused on a single building collapse, this event is designed to overrun Gaffney Medical, paralyze the Intelligence Unit, and leave the 51 fighting a war on multiple fronts. It’s a logistical “experiment” intended to mirror the scale of an Avengers film.
3. HIDDEN CAST RITUALS: The Bizarre “Locker Room” Secrets
You know their characters, but you don’t know the “Hidden Rituals” that keep the cast sane during those 14-hour Chicago winter shoots.
The “Expired Cereal” Mystery: On the Chicago Fire set at Cinespace, a bizarre tradition has emerged where the cast keeps “lucky” boxes of expired cereal from as far back as 2011 in the common room. Nobody eats them; they’re treated like holy relics.
David Eigenberg’s “Candy Bunker”: Known as the heart of the set, David Eigenberg (Herrmann) reportedly keeps his real firefighter bunker gear stuffed with candy. Cast members from P.D. and Med often “raid” the 51 set specifically for David’s stash during night shoots.
Musical Jam Sessions: When the cameras stop, the music starts. Hanako Greensmith and Miranda Rae Mayo (both cellists) have been known to hold “secret” jam sessions in the trailers, often joined by Jesse Spencer (when he visits) on the banjo.
4. THE “SHADOW” CAST: The Real Firefighters of 2026
The expansion isn’t just about actors. To maintain its “Marvel-level” authenticity, the 2026 season has increased its use of real-life consultants.
Tony Ferraris: Did you know “Tony” on Squad 2 is a real-life CFD member? In 2026, his role has expanded to training the newer “recruits” on set, ensuring that every knot tied and every mask donned is 100% authentic to the craft.
