The One Chicago franchise is reaching an important milestone tonight, November 12, as it airs its fall finales. For fans of these beloved series, it’s both an exciting and bittersweet evening, as viewers may have to brace themselves for a wait before the shows return with new episodes on NBC. Tonight’s lineup promises plenty of drama and suspense, starting with Chicago Med at 8:00 p.m. ET, which will feature a brand-new episode titled “Double Down.” Following that, at 9:00 p.m. ET, Chicago Fire will present its latest episode, “Pierce the Vein,” before the night concludes with Chicago P.D. at 10:00 p.m. ET, showcasing a new installment called “Impulse Control.” Each series promises intense storylines and cliffhangers that are sure to leave fans eagerly anticipating what comes next.
However, the big question on everyone’s mind is: when exactly will these shows return, and why are they going on a break in the first place? NBC has not issued an official confirmation regarding the return dates, but industry insiders and fans alike are speculating that the series may resume in January 2026.
While a multi-week hiatus might feel disappointing for viewers eager to continue following the drama at Firehouse 51 or within the halls of Chicago Med, such breaks are actually a common practice in television scheduling. Networks often pause their shows during the busy holiday season, which encompasses Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, to accommodate family celebrations, special programming, and to give production teams a breather.
This year, it seems NBC has opted for a longer hiatus than usual, allowing several weeks between the fall finales and the midseason premieres. This extended break not only provides the network with flexibility for holiday programming but also gives the cast and crew time to recharge, ensuring that when the One Chicago franchise returns in the new year, it comes back with fresh energy and compelling storylines to keep audiences hooked.
