NBC sets January 7 return date after shocking fall finale—here’s what fans can expect

Fall Finale Leaves Fans on Edge

Chicago Fire Season 14 delivered a dramatic fall finale on November 12, 2025, leaving fans stunned and desperate for answers. With tensions running high and several storylines hanging in the balance, the show closed out the year with a classic One Chicago cliffhanger—guaranteeing fans won’t stop speculating until it returns.

NBC confirmed that this was the final new episode of 2025, marking the beginning of the show’s winter hiatus. While disappointing for viewers, there’s good news on the horizon: the break won’t last long.

Chicago Fire Returns January 7, 2026

NBC has officially announced that Chicago Fire Season 14 will return from hiatus on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 9/8c. The winter premiere will follow the return of Chicago Med, as part of the network’s consistent One Chicago programming block.

The network typically brings its dramas back early in the new year, and this season is no exception. NBC remains one of the fastest to resume midseason programming, ensuring fans won’t have to wait too long for the action to heat up again.

Why the Break Came Early

Fans were surprised when Chicago Fire wrapped its fall run earlier than usual. In past years, new episodes often continued through late November or even into early December. So what changed?

The early finale was largely due to NBC’s decision to air a special broadcast of Wicked on November 19, just one day before the film’s sequel hit theaters. It was an unexpected move—most theatrical releases don’t air on broadcast so soon after premiering—but NBC clearly saw value in leveraging its primetime slot to promote the Wicked franchise.

As a result, Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago P.D. all ended their 2025 runs earlier than anticipated.

Where to Watch During the Break

Can’t wait for January? You’re not alone. Fortunately, Peacock is the exclusive streaming home for all One Chicago shows, including past and present episodes of Chicago Fire. Whether you need to catch up or just want to relive key moments, now’s the perfect time to dive back in.