Full Breakdown
NBC's Fall 2025 TV Lineup: Premieres and Controversies
9/20/2025, 1:52:28 PM
Overview of NBC's Fall Schedule
NBC has announced its fall 2025 television lineup, featuring a mix of returning favorites and new shows. The network is splitting its scripted returns over two weeks, with notable premieres including the long-running series "Law & Order" and "SVU" on September 21, followed by the "Chicago" franchise—"Chicago Med," "Chicago Fire," and "Chicago P.D."—the following week. Additionally, new comedies "St. Denis Medical" and "Happy’s Place" are set to return in November.
Key New Shows and Returning Favorites
Among the anticipated new shows is "The Paper," a spin-off of "The Office," which will premiere on NBC on November 10. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first Peacock original series to receive a full secondary broadcast run on its sister network. The series has garnered critical acclaim, achieving an 85% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and being renewed for a second season before its premiere.
Other notable premieres include "High Potential," which returned for its second season on Hulu, and "Relay," a thriller directed by David MacKenzie. The fall season also sees the return of "Stranger Things," with its final season debuting in three parts starting November 26.
Jimmy Kimmel's Suspension and Its Implications
In a significant development, Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show, "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," was suspended indefinitely by ABC following controversial remarks made by Kimmel regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The decision came after major affiliate owners, including Nexstar and Sinclair, threatened to preempt the show. Sinclair's Vice Chairman Jason Smith criticized Kimmel's comments as "inappropriate and deeply insensitive," demanding a public apology and a donation to Kirk's nonprofit for the show's return.
The controversy has sparked a broader debate about free speech and the responsibilities of broadcasters. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr supported the affiliates' actions, emphasizing the need for broadcasters to serve the public interest. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between media figures and political entities, particularly in the context of Kimmel's previous critiques of President Donald Trump and his administration.
Criticism and Opposition
The swift suspension of Kimmel's show has drawn criticism from various quarters, including free speech advocates who argue against silencing dissenting voices. Both Senator Ted Cruz and the American Civil Liberties Union have condemned the actions taken against Kimmel, asserting that such moves undermine the principles of free expression in the media landscape.
What's Next for NBC
As NBC prepares for its fall lineup, the network is also navigating the implications of Kimmel's suspension. Discussions between Kimmel's representatives and Disney are ongoing, with no guarantees of a resolution. The outcome of this situation may influence future programming decisions and the network's relationship with its affiliates.
In summary, NBC's fall 2025 schedule is marked by a blend of established series and new offerings, alongside the unfolding controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's show, which underscores the complex dynamics of media, politics, and public discourse in today's television landscape.
