ABC is doubling down on proven hits this midseason, announcing a dynamic lineup led by Will Trent and The Rookie — two fan-favorite dramas that have become cornerstones of the network’s brand. Alongside other returning titles and a few bold new experiments, the network’s 2026 midseason slate reflects both stability and ambition in an increasingly competitive television landscape.
The announcement came during ABC’s annual Television Critics Association (TCA) presentation, where executives emphasized the network’s commitment to “character-driven storytelling with heart, humor, and high stakes.”
The Rookie: A Veteran That Keeps Evolving
Now entering its eighth season, The Rookie continues to be one of ABC’s strongest performers in both live ratings and streaming. The procedural drama, starring Nathan Fillion as LAPD officer John Nolan, has defied the typical lifespan of a network drama — not just surviving, but thriving through reinvention.
Season 8 promises to be one of the show’s boldest yet, with a more cinematic tone, higher stakes, and emotionally layered character arcs. ABC Entertainment President Craig Erwich praised the show for its adaptability: “The Rookie continues to surprise us. It’s a series that evolves with its audience — it’s heartfelt, it’s exciting, and it has an incredible cast that delivers every week.”
The show’s international success also plays a part in ABC’s strategy, as The Rookie remains a top performer on Hulu and in international syndication markets. The network plans to pair the show with Will Trent in several time slots throughout the season, hoping to capitalize on overlapping audiences who love intelligent procedural dramas.
Will Trent: The Breakout Success
Based on the bestselling novels by Karin Slaughter, Will Trent has quickly become one of ABC’s breakout successes, praised for its unique mix of mystery, humor, and emotional storytelling. Ramón Rodríguez stars as the titular Georgia Bureau of Investigation agent with a keen eye for detail and a troubled past.
The series’ second season ended on a cliffhanger that left fans craving answers — and ABC is more than happy to deliver. The network confirmed that Season 3 will expand on Will’s backstory while introducing new cases that test his loyalty and relationships.
Critics have credited Will Trent for blending procedural elements with serialized storytelling — a balance that ABC hopes will continue to attract both loyal fans and new viewers.
“Will Trent is a perfect example of what ABC does best,” said Erwich. “It’s smart, emotionally rich, and anchored by a cast that feels real. It’s the kind of show that audiences watch together — and talk about afterward.”
A Midseason Built on Strength
Beyond its two headline dramas, ABC’s midseason slate features returning favorites like Grey’s Anatomy, Station 19, and The Good Doctor, along with a new family comedy Home Economics: Rebuilt and an anthology crime series True North.
But the network’s confidence clearly lies in the balance between stability and freshness. With The Rookie providing emotional resonance and Will Trent delivering psychological intrigue, ABC aims to dominate both procedural and character-driven storytelling in early 2026.
TV analyst Riley Evans summarized the strategy succinctly: “ABC isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel — they’re perfecting it. By building around their two strongest dramas, they’re ensuring that viewers stay invested week after week.”
The Future of ABC Dramas
While streaming competition has reshaped viewing habits, ABC remains one of the few broadcast networks successfully adapting without losing its identity. With shows like The Rookie proving that longevity doesn’t mean predictability, and Will Trent attracting new demographics, ABC’s drama lineup feels more confident than ever.
As Erwich put it during the TCA session: “Our goal is simple — stories that matter, characters that endure, and worlds that feel alive.”
For longtime Rookie and Will Trent fans, that promise means one thing: a midseason packed with emotion, intrigue, and must-see television.
