Television fans, take a deep breath. If you’ve been anxiously refreshing social media waiting for renewal news, you’re not alone. According to fresh industry buzz, ABC is preparing to renew several of its most-watched scripted series—including 9-1-1, The Rookie, and nine additional fan favorites.

But what does this really mean? Are these renewals guaranteed? And which shows are most likely to survive the network’s next big programming shuffle? Let’s break it down.

ABC’s Renewal Strategy: Why Timing Matters

Network renewals aren’t random. They’re chess moves. ABC looks at ratings, streaming performance, international sales, and social media traction before making decisions. It’s not just about who’s watching live anymore—it’s about who’s binge-watching later.

With streaming and delayed viewing dominating the landscape, shows that build loyal digital audiences now carry more weight than ever.

Why 9-1-1 Is Practically a Lock

When 9-1-1 moved to ABC, some fans worried. Would it keep its fire? Would viewers follow?

They did. In fact, it became one of ABC’s strongest-performing dramas.

Strong Ratings and Streaming Power

The show consistently delivers:

• High live viewership

• Strong DVR numbers

• Solid Hulu performance

• Heavy social media engagement

Procedural dramas with emotional arcs? That’s a winning formula.

Franchise Value Matters

ABC isn’t just investing in a show—it’s investing in a brand. The 9-1-1 universe still has expansion potential, and networks love expandable franchises.

The Rookie’s Staying Power

Let’s talk about The Rookie. What started as a modest procedural has grown into a dependable ratings anchor.

Consistent Growth Over the Years

Unlike many shows that fade after Season 3, The Rookie gained momentum. Word-of-mouth spread. Streaming helped new fans discover it. Suddenly, it wasn’t just surviving—it was thriving.

Star Power and Stability

Having Nathan Fillion leading the series doesn’t hurt. His built-in fan base continues to draw viewers, while the ensemble cast keeps storylines fresh.

What Other ABC Shows Could Be Renewed?

While final decisions aren’t public yet, reports suggest up to nine more scripted series are in strong renewal contention. These likely include a mix of:

• Long-running medical dramas

• Character-driven procedural series

• Family-focused dramedies

• High-performing midseason replacements

ABC is prioritizing stability. In uncertain times, predictable hits are gold.

How Ratings Influence Renewal Decisions

Live Ratings vs. Delayed Viewing

Gone are the days when overnight ratings ruled everything. Now networks factor in:

• Live+3 and Live+7 numbers

• Streaming completions

• Social buzz

• International licensing revenue

A show may look average on premiere night but explode online later.

The Streaming Factor: Hulu’s Role

ABC’s relationship with Hulu dramatically impacts renewals. Shows that dominate Hulu charts gain leverage. Why? Because digital performance equals long-term revenue.

If fans binge-watch it, ABC notices.

Production Costs vs. Profit Margins

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: even popular shows get canceled if production costs outweigh revenue.

Why Established Shows Often Survive

Long-running series:

• Have stable production pipelines

• Maintain predictable advertising revenue

• Generate syndication value

That makes shows like 9-1-1 and The Rookie safer bets.

Fan Engagement: The Hidden Renewal Weapon

Want your favorite show renewed? Tweet about it. Post clips. Engage.

Social engagement now influences perception. Networks track:

• Trending hashtags

• Fan campaigns

• Online petition activity

• Viral clips

Audience passion can tip the scales.

Why ABC Is Leaning Into Procedurals

Procedurals are comfort food for television audiences. You know what you’re getting: a problem, tension, resolution.

In a chaotic world, that structure feels reassuring. ABC understands this psychology well.

Are Any Shows at Risk?

Even in positive renewal cycles, some shows remain vulnerable:

• Expensive new dramas

• Low-rated freshman series

• Shows with declining year-over-year viewership

Networks balance risk with reward.

The Competitive Landscape in 2026

Broadcast TV is fighting streaming giants. Every renewal decision is strategic.

ABC needs:

• Stable ratings anchors

• Strong digital performance

• Reliable advertising revenue

• International market appeal

Renewing proven performers makes financial sense.

What This Means for Cast and Crew

Renewals don’t just impact fans. They mean job stability for hundreds of cast and crew members. Writers’ rooms stay open. Production continues. Story arcs expand.

It’s a domino effect of opportunity.

What Fans Should Watch For Next

Keep an eye on:

• Official ABC press releases

• Upfront presentations

• Cast contract renewals

• Social media hints

Renewals often leak before formal announcements.

Why This Renewal Wave Feels Different

This isn’t a panic year. It’s a consolidation year.

ABC appears to be doubling down on reliability rather than chasing risky experiments. That’s good news for established fan-favorite dramas.

Final Thoughts: Is Celebration Premature?

While no renewal is official until ABC confirms it, the indicators are strong. 9-1-1 and The Rookie sit comfortably in renewal territory, and several other scripted shows appear poised to join them.

For fans, this likely means more rescues, more patrol shifts, more emotional arcs, and more nights glued to the screen.

And honestly? That’s exactly what we wanted.

Conclusion

Television renewal season always feels like waiting for exam results. Will your favorite pass or fail? But based on current reports and industry signals, ABC appears ready to renew 9-1-1, The Rookie, and up to nine additional series. Strong ratings, streaming growth, franchise value, and fan engagement all point toward stability rather than surprise cancellations. While we wait for official confirmation, one thing is clear: ABC isn’t ready to let its biggest hits go anytime soon.