When looking at ABC’s triumph at bringing 9-1-1 into the fold, it’s even more clear that FOX needs to find a successor for the procedural. ABC is thriving with stellar ratings for 9-1-1, which has just wrapped up its eighth season. There’s also a brand-new and much-anticipated iteration of the franchise, 9-1-1: Nashville, which will be premiering in the fall. Starring Chris O’Donnell and Jessica Capshaw, the series is set to introduce even more exciting emergencies under the backdrop of Music City. However, when it comes to FOX, the network has now been left with zero first responder dramas. There have been some rumors that the network is thinking of doing a Baywatch reboot (which sounds a little too similar to the now-defunct Rescue HI-Surf), but they’re certainly directionless when it comes to a line-up that’s a guaranteed success.
Most of the networks have already announced their official lineups for the 2025-2026 season. But the question remains whether FOX will ever be able to recapture the impressive ratings they once had with 9-1-1. Perhaps the network will decide to go in a completely different direction, as it seems like they’re opting to focus on straight-forward dramas (such as Doc) and going all in on animation (American Dad!, Bob’s Burgers) and reality shows (Beat Shazam, Don’t Forget the Lyrics, Fear Factor). As ABC flourishes with 9-1-1 (with ratings that continue to climb) though, those suits at FOX might still be filled with regret about letting that first responder drama go.
In the glittery, cutthroat world of broadcast television, one thing’s clear: FOX’s ‘9-1-1’ didn’t just raise the bar—it launched it into orbit. With pulse-pounding rescues, heartfelt drama, and a cast that felt like family, the show wasn’t just a hit—it became a phenomenon. So, what happens now that it’s moved to ABC? FOX is in the hot seat, scrambling to fill a void that no standard procedural might easily replace. Let’s break down why ‘9-1-1’ was lightning in a bottle, what makes it so hard to replicate, and what FOX might do next.
What Made ‘9-1-1’ a Must-Watch Procedural?
High Stakes, High Emotion
Each episode felt like a blockbuster. One minute you’re crying over a mother reunited with her child, the next, your heart’s pounding as firefighters rappel down a collapsing building. That emotional rollercoaster? Pure gold.
A Stellar Ensemble Cast
Angela Bassett. Peter Krause. Need we say more? This was no average procedural. The characters felt real—flawed, heroic, deeply human. And let’s be honest, Bassett carried the show with the force of a tidal wave.
Perfect Blend of Action and Heart
It wasn’t just emergencies. It was relationships, growth, loss, triumph. This balance created loyal fans who weren’t just watching for sirens—they cared deeply about the people behind the uniforms.
Why FOX Let ‘9-1-1’ Go – And Why It Hurts
Budget Battles Behind the Scenes
Despite killer ratings, ‘9-1-1’ was expensive. Action-heavy plots, top-tier talent, and big production values meant big bucks. That didn’t always align with FOX’s financial model after Disney took the 20th Television studio.
The Shift to ABC
Now owned by Disney, ‘9-1-1’ made the leap to ABC, where it fit more snugly into the studio’s plans. For FOX? That’s a major hole in their primetime lineup.
What FOX Needs in Its Next Procedural
A Hook That Grabs You Instantly
Procedurals can be predictable. FOX needs something fresh—think outside the squad car or ER. Could it be cybercrime? Paranormal rescue? AI-infused detectives?
Strong, Diverse Characters
Audiences crave connection. It’s not just about crime-solving; it’s about who’s doing the solving. Representation matters, and FOX would do well to mirror ‘9-1-1’s inclusive casting.
Watercooler Moments
In the age of streaming, a procedural still needs to make people talk. Think epic plot twists, cliffhangers, or scenes that go viral. FOX’s next show has to be binge-worthy and tweet-worthy.
Potential Concepts That Could Fill the Gap
A Psychological Rescue Series
Imagine a unit that handles psychological crises—a procedural that blends therapy, negotiation, and emergency care. Deep. Raw. Gripping.
Crime Meets Tech
What if the next procedural revolves around a team that investigates cyber emergencies? Data theft, AI manipulation, tech-driven crimes—it’s relevant and ripe for drama.
Climate Crisis Responders
With the real world facing wildfires, floods, and hurricanes, a team tackling environmental disasters could resonate emotionally and socially.
The Ratings Reality: Can Lightning Strike Twice?
Let’s face it—most procedurals never achieve ‘9-1-1’ status. It combined blockbuster drama with real heart. But FOX doesn’t need to copy it beat for beat; it just needs to recapture the emotion and urgency.
Procedurals That Tried (And Failed) to Be the Next Big Thing
‘Deputy’ (FOX)
Short-lived. Despite an intriguing lead, it didn’t stick. The emotional depth just wasn’t there.
‘The Mob Doctor’
Great idea. Flawed execution. Audiences need more than concept—they need compelling characters.
‘APB’
High-tech police drama that lacked human drama. Tech without heart is just cold.
What FOX Should Do Differently This Time
Listen to the Audience
Focus groups, social media buzz, Reddit threads—fans are literally telling networks what they want. Time to listen.
Invest in Writers, Not Just Concepts
Great writing makes average ideas soar. Weak writing sinks even the strongest concept.
Keep Production Values High
Audiences are used to HBO-level quality. Skimping on production screams “cheap.” Big moments need big visuals.
