Entertainment

ABC Unveils Fall 2026 Premiere Dates with Key Schedule Adjustments

authorBy Shonda Rhimes

DateJul 27, 2026

Read Time3 min

ABC is gearing up for an exciting fall television season in 2026, releasing its highly anticipated premiere dates for a diverse array of shows. The network's schedule includes the return of popular series and a strategic adjustment to its lineup, promising viewers a captivating autumn of entertainment. From dazzling dance competitions to gripping dramas and beloved comedies, ABC's fall programming aims to deliver a compelling viewing experience.

Discover ABC's Fall 2026 Lineup: Your Guide to Must-Watch Premieres!

Strategic Shift in ABC's Fall Programming

ABC has unveiled its fall 2026 premiere schedule, highlighting several key adjustments to its prime-time lineup. A notable change involves the fifth season of Celebrity Jeopardy!, which has been moved to a 2027 debut. In its place, viewers can anticipate a continuation of the popular game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, taking over the Wednesday night slot starting October 7.

Kick-off to the Fall Season and Major Returns

The network's fall programming will commence in mid-September, marked by the broadcast of the first Monday Night Football game on September 14, simulcast with ESPN. Following this, the highly anticipated return of Dancing With the Stars, which saw a significant surge in ratings last fall, is scheduled for September 15. The same evening will also feature the premiere of the second season of the private investigator drama, R.J. Decker.

Gradual Unveiling of ABC's Diverse Entertainment Roster

ABC's remaining slate of shows will be rolled out progressively over several weeks. Family favorites America’s Funniest Home Videos and The Wonderful World of Disney are set to premiere on September 27. On September 30, both Scrubs and Shark Tank will treat audiences to special two-episode debuts. The following week, Abbott Elementary and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire will join the schedule. The fall season will culminate on October 15 with the premieres of the popular Thursday night drama block: 911, 911: Nashville, and Grey’s Anatomy.

Anticipated Midseason Premieres and New Series

Looking ahead, ABC has reserved several high-profile shows for its midseason schedule, including fan favorites such as High Potential, The Rookie, and Will Trent. Additionally, the network will introduce two new and exciting series: The Rookie: North, a spin-off from the successful The Rookie franchise, and a new Grey’s Anatomy spin-off set in Texas, promising fresh narratives and expanding beloved universes for viewers.

Complete Fall 2026 Premiere Schedule Breakdown

For those eager to plan their viewing, here is a detailed breakdown of ABC’s fall 2026 premiere dates. All listed times are ET/PT, unless specified otherwise:

Saturday, August 29
7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT: Saturday Night College Football

Monday, September 14
8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT: Monday Night Football (simulcast on ESPN)

Tuesday, September 15
8 p.m.: Dancing With the Stars
10 p.m.: R.J. Decker

Friday, September 25
9 p.m.: 20/20

Sunday, September 27
7 p.m.: America’s Funniest Home Videos
8 p.m.: The Wonderful World of Disney

Wednesday, September 30
8 p.m.: Scrubs
9 p.m.: Shark Tank

Friday, October 2
8 p.m.: Celebrity Wheel of Fortune

Wednesday, October 7
8:30 p.m.: Abbott Elementary
9 p.m.: Who Wants to Be a Millionaire
10 p.m.: Shark Tank (regular time slot)

Thursday, October 15
8 p.m.: 911
9 p.m.: 911: Nashville
10 p.m.: Grey’s Anatomy

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