The onset of the 2026 Winter Olympics has led several major television networks to temporarily suspend many of their primetime shows. Taking place in various locations across Lombardy and Northeast Italy, the event runs from February 6 to February 22. As fans eagerly anticipate the return of their favorite series, it is important to review the programming adjustments made due to this global sporting occasion.
NBC’s Extensive Coverage Affects Schedule
With NBC responsible for comprehensive coverage of the Winter Olympics, the network has implemented significant changes to its lineup. Numerous shows will not air new episodes during the event, resulting in a notable hiatus. The competition series The Voice: Battle of Champions is set to return to its regular schedule on February 23, airing a new episode from 21:00 to 23:00. Following that, long-running series Law & Order and SVU will resume on February 26.
The One Chicago franchise, which includes Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago PD, will close out the hiatus with a much-anticipated three-way crossover event on March 4.
CBS and ABC Adjust Their Programming
While CBS is not directly covering the Olympics, it has opted to air repeat episodes of most of its shows since December 2025. FBI will return on February 23, coinciding with the launch of its spin-off series, CIA. Other CBS shows, including Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage, Ghosts, and Matlock, will resume their seasons on February 26 and 27.
Additionally, the popular NCIS franchise, consisting of NCIS, NCIS: Origins, and NCIS: Sydney, will shift its return to March 4 to accommodate Donald Trump’s State of the Union address to Congress, originally scheduled for February 24.
On the other hand, ABC has maintained some of its regular schedule. Shows like The Rookie and Will Trent will continue as planned. However, 9-1-1, 9-1-1: Nashville, and Grey’s Anatomy are set to return on February 26, while High Potential will make its comeback on March 3. Abbott Elementary will also join the list of shows on hiatus during the Olympic week.
In contrast to these adjustments, Fox will largely keep its programming schedule intact, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite shows without interruption.
As the Winter Olympics captivates audiences worldwide, viewers can look forward to the resumption of their beloved primetime series in the weeks following the event.
