Broadcast television is entering a period of relative stability, with the major networks largely maintaining course heading into the 2026-27 season. After a year of recovery, the “big four” networks – ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC – are prioritizing a consistent lineup, though a shift towards sports programming is reshaping primetime schedules. This strategic move is impacting space for scripted and unscripted series, prompting a careful evaluation of existing shows and a cautious approach to new development.
The increasing prominence of sports is a key factor in this landscape. NBC is dedicating Tuesdays and post-NFL Sundays to NBA coverage, followed by baseball in the spring and summer. ABC has solidified Monday Night Football as a fall staple, and Fox continues to prioritize sports on Fridays and Saturdays. This expansion of sports programming is creating a competitive environment for entertainment content, potentially leading to the cancellation of underperforming series. However, NBC’s renewed interest in pilot season signals an openness to expanding its scripted offerings.
The evolving media landscape, including Paramount CEO David Ellison’s emphasis on linear networks and the potential acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, adds another layer of complexity. These developments could significantly impact the studio side of the television business. Below is a comprehensive guide to the current status of shows across the four major networks, as of March 6, 2026, offering insight into what’s returning, what’s ending, and what’s new.
ABC Renewals and Cancellations
ABC has made several key decisions regarding its lineup. Returning favorites include 911, renewed for a tenth season, and Abbott Elementary (produced by 20th Television/Warner Bros. TV), which will be back for a sixth season. Grey’s Anatomy continues to be a cornerstone of the network’s schedule, while High Potential has earned a renewal for a third season. The Rookie (Lionsgate TV/20th) is likewise set to return. New series 911: Nashville has been picked up for a second season. Several unscripted shows are also confirmed, including American Idol, America’s Funniest Home Videos, and The Bachelorette, with season 22 premiering March 22, 2026. Celebrity Jeopardy! will return for an all-star season on March 13, 2026, alongside Celebrity Wheel of Fortune and Dancing With the Stars. Shark Tank remains a popular choice, and The Golden Bachelor will also be back. New unscripted additions include The Greatest Average American. Currently, ABC has no series orders for the 2026-27 season.
CBS Lineup Updates
CBS is also demonstrating a commitment to established programming. FBI (UTV/CBS Studios) is renewed for a ninth season, and NCIS will return for its 24th season. Ghosts (CBS Studios/Lionsgate/BBC Studios L.A. Prods.) has secured a sixth season, while Tracker (20th) will be back for a fourth. Newer series Boston Blue and CIA (Universal TV/CBS Studios) have also been renewed for seasons two. Elsbeth is returning for a fourth season, and Matlock has been renewed for a third. Fire Country and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage (WBTV) will also continue. However, The Neighborhood will be concluding with its eighth season. On the unscripted side, The Amazing Race is renewed for a 39th season, and Survivor is confirmed through season 52. New unscripted series include America’s Culinary Cup, Harlan Coben’s Final Twist, Hollywood Squares, and The Road. CBS has announced series orders for two new dramas, Cupertino and Einstein, for the 2026-27 season.
Fox’s Programming Decisions
Fox is maintaining a strong foundation of animated programming, with American Dad renewed through season 23 (2028-29) and Bob’s Burgers through season 19 (2028-29). Family Guy is also set to continue through season 27 (2028-29). Live-action renewals include Animal Control for a fifth season and Doc (Fox/Sony). The limited series The Faithful: Women of the Bible will premiere on March 22. The Simpsons remains a flagship program, renewed through season 40 (2028-29). Unscripted shows returning to Fox include Farmer Wants a Wife, with season four premiering April 21, and Hell’s Kitchen. New unscripted series include 99 to Beat, Celebrity Weakest Link, Extracted, and Fear Factor: House of Fear. Fox has ordered the drama Baywatch for the 2026-27 season.
NBC’s Renewals and New Series
NBC is balancing established franchises with new ventures. The Chicago franchise – Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago PD – will all return. Law & Order and Law & Order: SVU are also confirmed for another season. Happy’s Place has been renewed for a third season, and St. Denis Medical will be back for a third season. New series The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins and Stumble have been added to the lineup. Unscripted shows returning to NBC include The Voice and The Wall. Currently, NBC has no series orders for the 2026-27 season.
As the television landscape continues to evolve, the broadcast networks are navigating a complex balance between maintaining popular programming and adapting to changing viewer habits. The increasing influence of sports programming will undoubtedly continue to shape primetime schedules, and the success of new series will be crucial in determining the future direction of each network. Stay tuned for further updates as the networks approach the upfronts and announce their full schedules for the 2026-27 season.
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