The One Chicago franchise is gearing up for its most ambitious crossover event yet. Known for seamlessly blending its interconnected series, this year’s crossover promises to outshine all its predecessors. Fans are in for a thrilling ride, with every show and character getting their moment in the spotlight.
However, the storytelling structure for the 2025 crossover differs from the usual format, so viewers must tune in carefully to follow the action in the right order. Here’s everything you need to know to avoid confusion and enjoy this epic event to the fullest.
Why the Episode Order Is Different
Traditionally, the One Chicago series—Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago PD—air in that sequence on NBC’s One Chicago Wednesday. However, the 2025 crossover will shake things up. Instead of Med opening the night, Chicago Fire will take the lead, followed by Chicago Med, and finally, Chicago PD.
The decision to start with Fire makes sense given the storyline. The crossover’s central event kicks off with a major emergency that Firehouse 51 responds to, setting the stage for the drama that unfolds across all three shows. Structurally, it wouldn’t make sense for Med to begin the event since the medical team deals with the aftermath of the incident.
Interestingly, this structure mirrors the 2019 One Chicago crossover, where Chicago Fire also served as the opener for a storyline centered on a deadly virus. The decision to put Fire first worked then, and it’s poised to deliver the same seamless narrative flow this time around.
The Correct Order to Watch the 2025 Crossover
To follow the story properly, here’s the order you should watch:
- Chicago Fire (Part I: In the Trenches)
- Chicago Med (Part II: In the Trenches)
- Chicago PD (Part III: In the Trenches)
Each episode title reflects the event’s cohesive narrative, so skipping around or watching out of order could disrupt the experience.
Streaming and Rewatching Tips
For fans watching the crossover on Peacock or catching up later, it’s essential to watch all three episodes in the proper sequence. Unlike standalone episodes of Med, Fire, or PD, this crossover weaves a single storyline through all three series. Watching just one show in isolation will leave you with only part of the story—and a lot of unanswered questions.
For example, tuning into Chicago PD Season 12 without watching the earlier crossover episodes could drop you into the middle of the narrative, leaving you lost. The interconnected nature of this event echoes the logic behind massive superhero crossovers like The Avengers, where the full impact can only be felt when experienced as a whole.
What to Expect from the 2025 One Chicago Crossover
This year’s event, titled In the Trenches, is set to be a heart-pounding, emotionally charged experience. The One Chicago team excels at crafting high-stakes storylines that highlight the strengths and camaraderie of each show while weaving them together into a singular, unforgettable event.
From the chaos of the initial emergency tackled by Chicago Fire to the life-saving efforts of Chicago Med and the intense investigative work of Chicago PD, this crossover has something for everyone. Fans can expect the kind of teamwork, action, and emotional depth that have made the franchise so beloved.
