ABC, NBC Unveil Fall 2026 Primetime Schedules

ABC and NBC unveiled their fall 2026 primetime schedules this week, signaling stability amid broadcast challenges with a mix of returning hits, select new series and strategic holds for midseason launches.

ABC's lineup features minimal changes, renewing every scripted series for the first time in its history. The network held its top-rated drama, High Potential, for a midseason debut to deliver an uninterrupted run, a tactic proven successful with shows like Will Trent and The Rookie. R.J. Decker, a performance standout with steady linear viewership above 3 million and growing streaming numbers, secured renewal and its Tuesday 10 p.m. slot following Dancing with the Stars. "We had the biggest week of streaming for the show to date, the week after the finale," said Ari Goldman, ABC senior vice president of content strategy and scheduling.

The sole new scripted entry, The Rookie North spinoff starring Jay Ellis, also targets midseason alongside returns of The Rookie, Shifting Gears, High Potential and Will Trent. Wednesday nights anchor with the Scrubs revival at 8 p.m., leading into Abbott Elementary at 8:30 p.m., Celebrity Jeopardy! and Shark Tank. Thursdays remain intact with...