when will fall season start for tv in2026

The fall TV season in 2026 starts in mid-September , with NBC kicking things off on September 9 and the first scripted premieres beginning September 17. Other major fall premieres follow through late September and October.

Quick Scoop

For the U.S. broadcast networks , “fall TV” usually means the rollout of new and returning shows from September through October. In 2026, NBC’s schedule shows the season beginning with football on Sept. 9 , then scripted programming starting Sept. 17.

Notable dates

• Sept. 9 : NBC’s fall schedule begins with NFL coverage.

• Sept. 17 : The Traitors: New Blood premieres, marking NBC’s first scripted fall launch.

• Sept. 21 : The Voice Season 30 starts.

• Oct. 7–8 : Chicago and Law & Order franchise shows return.

• Oct. 23 : Happy’s Place and Newlyweds arrive.

What this means

If you mean the general TV fall season, the answer is mid-September 2026. If you mean a specific network, the exact start date can vary a bit, but NBC’s published fall lineup is a good anchor for the season.

Want the 2026 fall TV start dates for ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC in one table?