NBC’s iconic “One Chicago” franchise, home to Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, and Chicago Med, is getting a major shake-up this fall—but not in the way most fans anticipated. While many expected another traditional spinoff focusing on a new emergency department or a legal drama tied to the Windy City, NBC has charted a bold new course that could redefine the franchise’s future.

After years of speculation, fan petitions, and endless Reddit theories, the One Chicago universe is set to expand in the form of a limited-series anthology titled Chicago: Origins—a character-driven prequel that dives into the backstories of some of the franchise’s most beloved and enigmatic characters. This innovative storytelling approach is NBC’s way of honoring the franchise’s legacy while also giving audiences something they’ve never seen before.

Since Chicago Fire premiered in 2012, followed by Chicago P.D. in 2014 and Chicago Med in 2015, the shared universe has become one of NBC’s strongest prime-time assets. With its cross-show storylines, annual crossover events, and deeply connected characters, One Chicago has attracted a fiercely loyal fanbase. But after over a decade on the air, there were whispers of fatigue, with viewers wondering how much longer the formula could last without something fresh.

Set to premiere in late October 2025, Chicago: Origins will peel back the layers of fan-favorite characters like Hank Voight, Sharon Goodwin, Kelly Severide, and even the mysterious Trudy Platt. Each episode will serve as a deep dive into pivotal moments that shaped these characters—some of which were only briefly mentioned or hinted at in past episodes.

The showrunner, Derek Haas (co-creator of Chicago Fire), promises a more cinematic tone with each episode focusing on a different time period, unique directing styles, and distinct emotional arcs. The series won’t be just a nostalgia trip; it’s set to uncover secrets, heartbreaks, and events that fans have long speculated about.

NBC’s choice to go the anthology route isn’t just a creative decision—it’s a strategic one. With the streaming wars reshaping television consumption, traditional networks are now embracing shorter, high-impact series with binge-worthy appeal. Chicago: Origins is set to stream weekly on Peacock following its NBC premiere, signaling a tighter synergy between broadcast and digital platforms.

This limited format allows the franchise to explore darker, more mature themes and character development that may not always fit into the structure of ongoing procedural series. It also gives long-time cast members a chance to revisit their roles without committing to full seasons.

As expected, the announcement sparked a frenzy on social media. Fans have taken to Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to share their dream episodes, ranging from a young Platt tackling gender discrimination in the department to a Voight family tragedy that explains his hardened exterior. Some, however, have expressed concern about potential canon conflicts or the possibility of overexposing iconic characters. But according to insiders, the writing team has worked closely with the original creators and showrunners to ensure that the character arcs remain authentic and consistent with established lore.

While full casting announcements are still under wraps, sources have confirmed that Jason Beghe (Voight), S. Epatha Merkerson (Goodwin), and Amy Morton (Platt) are all on board to narrate or appear as framing devices within their respective episodes. Younger versions of these characters will be played by fresh new talent, some of whom were cast through a nationwide talent search to bring new energy and authenticity to the roles.

Rumors are swirling that Chicago Fire’s Taylor Kinney may also appear briefly in the Severide episode, helping to bridge past and present. The show will also feature returning guest stars and surprise cameos from characters long thought gone or forgotten. With ratings across network TV facing challenges, NBC is betting on a new strategy: nostalgia with a purpose. By tapping into the emotional history of the franchise, Chicago: Origins is poised to deepen viewer investment and bring lapsed fans back into the fold.

The show also lays the groundwork for possible new spinoffs. If certain episodes of Origins are particularly well received, NBC may greenlight limited follow-ups or even full series. The possibilities are wide open—from a young Voight spinoff to a show centered around a 1980s version of Chicago Med. In many ways, this move mirrors what other mega-franchises have done successfully. Just as Better Call Saul gave new life to Breaking Bad, or Andor elevated Star Wars with character-driven storytelling, Chicago: Origins could be the next evolution for NBC’s crown jewel.