Fall television is back, and let’s be honest — nothing beats that moment when your favorite shows reclaim their time slots and your week suddenly makes sense again.
After months of reruns, cliffhangers, and endless speculation, the Fall TV 2026 premiere calendar is finally coming into focus.
Whether you’re loyal to ABC dramas, hooked on CBS procedurals, addicted to FOX reality hits, or devoted to NBC’s must-see TV, this complete breakdown of Fall TV 2026 return dates has you covered.
So grab your planner — or your phone — because this is the guide you’ll be coming back to all season long.
Why Fall TV Still Matters in 2026
Streaming may dominate headlines, but broadcast television still owns the fall season.
The Power of Fall Premieres
Fall remains the most competitive and high-stakes time of year for networks. It’s when:
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Ratings are won or lost
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New series are tested
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Fan-favorite shows make their long-awaited returns
Think of fall TV like opening night on Broadway — everyone brings their best.
Fall TV 2026: When Does the Season Officially Start?
The Traditional Fall TV Window
For decades, networks have followed a predictable rhythm:
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Late September: Scripted dramas and comedies return
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Early October: Reality competition and unscripted shows roll out
Fall TV 2026 sticks closely to that tradition, with premieres spread across September 21 through October 12, 2026.
ABC Fall TV 2026 Premiere Dates
ABC continues to lean into emotional storytelling, high-concept dramas, and reality juggernauts.
ABC’s Strategy for Fall 2026
ABC is focusing on:
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Established franchises
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Character-driven dramas
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Event-style reality programming
Major ABC Show Return Dates
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Monday, September 21, 2026 – Flagship dramas and reality favorites
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Tuesday, September 22, 2026 – High-rated procedural series
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Thursday, September 24, 2026 – Must-see drama night
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Sunday, September 27, 2026 – Family and reality programming
ABC clearly wants viewers settled in early — and staying put all season.
CBS Fall TV 2026 Premiere Dates
CBS remains the undisputed king of consistency.
Why CBS Wins the Fall Every Year
CBS doesn’t chase trends — it perfects formulas:
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Procedural dramas
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Multi-camera comedies
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Franchise stability
CBS Fall 2026 Premiere Highlights
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Monday, September 28, 2026 – Comedy and drama lineup returns
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Tuesday, September 29, 2026 – Procedural powerhouse night
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Wednesday, September 30, 2026 – Reality competition launches
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Thursday, October 1, 2026 – Flagship franchises reclaim primetime
CBS plays the long game — and Fall 2026 is no exception.
FOX Fall TV 2026 Premiere Dates
FOX brings the heat early with reality dominance and animated staples.
FOX’s Fall Programming Identity
FOX thrives on:
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Event television
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Reality competitions
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Animation blocks
FOX Premiere Schedule for Fall 2026
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Wednesday, September 23, 2026 – Reality juggernauts return
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Sunday, September 27, 2026 – Animation Domination resumes
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Monday, October 5, 2026 – Scripted dramas roll out
FOX uses staggered premieres to keep momentum high well into October.
NBC Fall TV 2026 Premiere Dates
NBC continues to build its fall around trusted franchises and live-event energy.
NBC’s Must-See TV Approach
NBC focuses on:
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Franchise nights
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Live audience engagement
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High-stakes dramas
NBC Fall 2026 Return Dates
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Monday, September 21, 2026 – Franchise drama night
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Tuesday, September 22, 2026 – Procedural lineup
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Wednesday, September 23, 2026 – Reality competition premieres
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Thursday, September 24, 2026 – Iconic drama block
NBC wastes no time reclaiming its place in the ratings race.
How to Watch Fall TV 2026 Without Missing a Thing
Live TV vs Streaming Apps
Most shows will air:
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Live on broadcast TV
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Next-day on network streaming platforms
Best Tip for Busy Viewers
Set recurring reminders — fall schedules move fast, and missing a premiere is like walking into a movie halfway through.
What’s New About Fall TV in 2026
Shorter Seasons, Bigger Stories
Expect:
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Tighter episode counts
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Faster pacing
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Fewer filler episodes
Why That’s a Good Thing
Quality beats quantity — and audiences agree.
How Networks Are Competing Harder Than Ever
Ratings Aren’t the Only Metric
Success now includes:
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Social media engagement
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Streaming replays
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Fan loyalty
Fall TV 2026 isn’t just about numbers — it’s about noise.
Why You Should Lock These Dates In Now
Because fall TV is like a train — once it starts moving, it doesn’t slow down. Miss the premiere, and suddenly you’re dodging spoilers like landmines.
Conclusion: Fall TV 2026 Is Shaping Up to Be Unmissable
Fall TV 2026 proves one thing loud and clear: broadcast television isn’t going anywhere. With smart scheduling, beloved franchises, and strategic rollouts, ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC are delivering a season built for loyalty, conversation, and comfort.
If television is your weekly ritual, Fall 2026 is about to feel like home again.
FAQs: Fall TV 2026
1. When does Fall TV 2026 officially begin?
Fall TV 2026 begins the week of September 21, 2026, with premieres rolling through early October.
2. Which network premieres shows the earliest?
ABC and NBC kick off their fall schedules during the third week of September.
3. Are all shows returning at the same time?
No. Networks stagger premieres to maintain momentum and ratings.
4. Will shows be available on streaming platforms?
Yes, most episodes will stream next-day on their respective network apps.
5. Is Fall TV still relevant in the streaming era?
Absolutely. Fall remains the most important season for broadcast television.