NBC’s 2026 Midseason Plan Reveals Schedule Dominated by Olympics and Super Bowl

NBC has unveiled its midseason premiere schedule for early 2026. The plan is packed with major sporting events and returning fan-favorite shows. The network will juggle the Winter Olympics, Super Bowl LX, and the NBA All-Star Game.

This creates a unique programming challenge for the broadcaster. According to schedule information, most of February’s primetime is dedicated to these global events. New scripted and unscripted series will premiere around this blockbuster sports lineup.

Key Premieres Bookend a Sports-Heavy February

The game show “The Wall” kicks things off on January 5. It will air on Mondays, temporarily replacing “The Voice.” The crime drama “The Hunting Party” returns for its second season on January 8.

It will follow NBC’s established “Law & Order” block on Thursday nights. These shows will run before the Olympic coverage begins.

Two high-profile shows premiere on February 23, right after the Olympics conclude. The new comedy “The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins” stars Tracy Morgan and Daniel Radcliffe. It will get a special two-episode premiere that night.

The spring season of “The Voice” also debuts that same evening. It will feature a “Battle of Champions” format with coaches Kelly Clarkson and John Legend. This scheduling aims to capture audience momentum after the Olympics.

Strategic Scheduling Aims for Maximum Audience Retention

NBC’s strategy clearly uses major sports as a tentpole. The goal is to launch new series with a built-in, massive audience. This is a common tactic in broadcast television to ensure new shows find viewers quickly.

The network’s second night of primetime NBA games begins Sunday, February 1. This adds another consistent sports property to the lineup. It provides steady programming leading into the Olympic frenzy.

For viewers, the schedule offers a mix of live event excitement and familiar entertainment. The network hopes fans of the Olympics and Super Bowl will stay for the new comedies and returning competition shows. This period will be a critical test of audience loyalty and programming strength for NBC.

The full 2026 NBC midseason schedule demonstrates a network leveraging its strengths. By anchoring its winter with the Olympics and Super Bowl, it creates a powerful launchpad for new programming. This strategy is a calculated bet on big events driving lasting viewership.

Thought you’d like to know

When does the 2026 Winter Olympics start on NBC?

The Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, February 6, 2026. Specific broadcast times are still to be determined. NBC will provide extensive coverage across its platforms.

What new show premieres after the Olympics end?

“The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins” premieres on Monday, February 23. The comedy features Tracy Morgan and Daniel Radcliffe. It will air following the conclusion of the Olympic Games.

When is Super Bowl LX on NBC?

Super Bowl LX is set for Sunday, February 8, 2026. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. Eastern Time. NBC will carry the broadcast as part of its midseason schedule.

Is “The Voice” coming back in early 2026?

Yes. “The Voice” returns for a spring season on February 23. The new format is called “Battle of Champions.” Coaches include Kelly Clarkson and John Legend.

When does primetime NBA basketball start on NBC?

NBC’s Sunday night primetime NBA games begin on February 1, 2026. This is part of the network’s expanded basketball coverage. It leads into the NBA All-Star Game later that month.