If you’re anything like me, the return of fall TV feels like Christmas morning. After months of reruns, streaming binges, and fan theories keeping us alive, our favorite broadcast shows are finally making their way back to the screen. Whether you’re a die-hard 9-1-1 fan, a loyal CBS drama follower, or someone who just can’t live without NBC’s crime thrillers, this guide will give you the exact dates you need. Let’s dive in and map out when ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC are dropping their biggest hits this fall. Spoiler alert: it’s going to be a packed season.
Why Fall TV Premieres Matter More Than Ever
Fall TV isn’t just about new episodes—it’s about tradition. For decades, networks have used September and October to roll out their biggest shows. It’s when families gather on the couch, Twitter trends explode, and the office water-cooler talk comes alive again.
But with streaming wars heating up, networks are stepping up their game. Expect more cliffhangers, more crossovers, and more surprises designed to keep you hooked.
The Big Question: When Does 9-1-1 Return?
ABC scored a major win when it picked up 9-1-1 after Fox canceled it. Since then, the show has only gotten bigger. Fans of Athena, Bobby, and the entire first responder squad are eagerly waiting for the season premiere.
Premiere Date: 9-1-1 returns Thursday, September 25th, 2025 at 8 PM ET on ABC.
ABC Fall 2025 Premiere Schedule
ABC has a packed lineup this fall, from thrillers to comedies. Here’s a quick rundown of the biggest shows:
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9-1-1 – Thursday, Sept. 25 at 8 PM
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Grey’s Anatomy – Thursday, Sept. 25 at 9 PM
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Station 19 (Final Season) – Thursday, Sept. 25 at 10 PM
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The Good Doctor – Monday, Sept. 29 at 10 PM
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Abbott Elementary – Wednesday, Oct. 1 at 9 PM
ABC is clearly keeping Thursdays as their “can’t-miss” drama night, led by 9-1-1.
CBS Fall 2025 Premiere Schedule
CBS is sticking to what works: big franchises and fan favorites. If you love procedural dramas, CBS is your home base.
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NCIS – Monday, Sept. 22 at 9 PM
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NCIS: Hawai’i – Monday, Sept. 22 at 10 PM
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FBI – Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 8 PM
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FBI: International – Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 9 PM
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FBI: Most Wanted – Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 10 PM
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Young Sheldon (Final Season) – Thursday, Sept. 25 at 8 PM
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Survivor – Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 8 PM
CBS continues to dominate with consistency. Fans know exactly what to expect, and that’s why they keep tuning in.
NBC Fall 2025 Premiere Schedule
NBC has leaned heavily into crime, law, and medical dramas. The “One Chicago” and “Law & Order” franchises are basically cultural institutions now.
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The Voice – Monday, Sept. 22 at 8 PM
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Law & Order – Thursday, Sept. 25 at 8 PM
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Law & Order: SVU – Thursday, Sept. 25 at 9 PM
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Law & Order: Organized Crime – Thursday, Sept. 25 at 10 PM
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Chicago Fire – Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 9 PM
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Chicago P.D. – Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 10 PM
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Chicago Med – Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 8 PM
NBC knows how to keep fans hooked with back-to-back drama blocks.
Fox Fall 2025 Premiere Schedule
Fox has been experimenting with more reality TV, animation, and sports-heavy programming, but it’s still got some solid scripted shows.
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The Masked Singer – Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 8 PM
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9-1-1: Lone Star – Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 9 PM
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The Simpsons – Sunday, Sept. 28 at 8 PM
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Family Guy – Sunday, Sept. 28 at 9 PM
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Bob’s Burgers – Sunday, Sept. 28 at 9:30 PM
Fox might not have the same drama depth as the other networks, but it owns the animation and reality lane.
How Networks Are Competing Against Streaming Giants
Let’s be honest: streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ are stiff competition. But broadcast networks have something streaming can’t always deliver—event television. When 9-1-1 airs live, fans take to Twitter, TikTok, and Reddit instantly. That shared moment is something streaming shows rarely capture.
Why Thursdays Are the New Prime TV Night
Once upon a time, Sunday nights were the crown jewel of TV. Now, Thursday is king. With ABC, CBS, and NBC all stacking their top dramas on Thursday nights, it’s become the ultimate battleground.
Think of it like three heavyweight boxers entering the same ring. Someone might come out on top, but the real winners are the viewers.
Biggest Premieres to Watch This Fall
If your DVR (or streaming app) can’t handle it all, here are the absolute must-watch premieres:
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9-1-1 on ABC
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Law & Order: SVU on NBC
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NCIS on CBS
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The Masked Singer on Fox
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Grey’s Anatomy on ABC
Fan-Favorite Shows That Won’t Return
Not every show makes the cut. Sadly, a few fan favorites didn’t survive the renewal process. Here are the biggest ones that won’t be back this fall:
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The Rookie: Feds (ABC)
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CSI: Vegas (CBS)
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La Brea (NBC)
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Call Me Kat (Fox)
How to Keep Track of All These Premieres
With so many shows, it’s easy to lose track. Pro tip: set reminders on your phone, follow the official network pages on Instagram, and keep a shared family calendar. That way, you’ll never miss a premiere night.
Crossover Events Are Coming
One of the biggest fall TV trends is crossover events. ABC has hinted at a possible 9-1-1 x Grey’s Anatomy crossover. CBS could bring together the FBI shows for another massive storyline. And NBC? Expect at least one “One Chicago” mega event this season.
Why 9-1-1 Remains the Show to Beat
There’s a reason why 9-1-1 keeps trending season after season. The mix of high-stakes emergencies, emotional storytelling, and relatable characters makes it unbeatable. It’s not just a show—it’s an adrenaline rush wrapped in human drama.
Conclusion
Fall 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting TV seasons in years. From 9-1-1 on ABC to NBC’s crime block and CBS’s procedural powerhouses, the broadcast networks are ready to remind us why fall premieres still matter.
Grab your snacks, set your DVRs, and clear your weeknights—because your favorite shows are finally back.
FAQs
1. When does 9-1-1 return on ABC?
9-1-1 returns on **Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, at 8 PM ET.
2. What night is Law & Order: SVU on NBC?
It premieres on **Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, at 9 PM ET.
3. Is Young Sheldon ending this fall?
Yes, CBS has confirmed the final season of Young Sheldon premieres Thursday, Sept. 25.
4. Which network airs The Masked Singer?
The Masked Singer airs on **Fox, premiering Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, at 8 PM ET.
5. Are there any planned crossovers this fall?
Yes, networks are teasing crossovers across the FBI shows (CBS) and possible 9-1-1 and Grey’s Anatomy (ABC) collaborations.
