For over a decade, Chicago Fire has reliably premiered each fall, starting with its debut in October 2012. Season 11 continued that tradition in September 2022. However, the upcoming Season 12 breaks this pattern, marking the first time the series will premiere outside of the fall TV season.
Why the Delay?
Originally slated for its usual fall slot in 2023, Chicago Fire Season 12 has been pushed to 2024. According to People, this change is due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, which have disrupted production schedules across the entertainment industry. NBC has yet to announce a specific release date for the new season, likely because the timeline depends on the resolution of negotiations between the unions and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).
The delay also impacts the other shows in the One Chicago franchise, Chicago Med and Chicago P.D., which have also been rescheduled for 2024 premieres.
NBC’s Reshuffled Fall Lineup
The delay of Chicago Fire is part of a broader shakeup in NBC’s fall programming. Popular series like Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and Night Court have also been postponed until 2024. To fill the gap, NBC has moved up the release of the second half of Magnum P.I. Season 5, which was initially planned for winter 2023.
Additionally, two new original series, The Irrational and Found, are proceeding as planned, providing fresh content for viewers amidst the schedule reshuffle.
When Can Fans Expect Chicago Fire Season 12?
While NBC has not provided a precise premiere date for Chicago Fire Season 12, fans can expect the series to return sometime in 2024. The timing depends on when the strikes are resolved and production can resume. As one of NBC’s most beloved dramas, the network will likely aim to bring it back as soon as feasible.
This extended wait is certainly disappointing for fans eager to return to Firehouse 51. However, the delay underscores the broader challenges facing the TV industry during the strikes, highlighting the importance of fair negotiations for the professionals who bring these stories to life.
