ABC's Blockbuster 2026 Midseason Schedule is Here – 'Scrubs' Revival, 'Will Trent,' & More!

Get ready for an epic start to 2026! ABC just dropped its midseason schedule, bringing back fan-favorite dramas like 'Will Trent' and 'The Rookie,' alongside comedies, unscripted hits, and the much-anticipated 'Scrubs' revival.

TL;DR: Here's What You Need to Know

• The 'Scrubs' revival with original stars Zach Braff, Donald Faison, and Sarah Chalke premieres Wednesday, Feb. 25, with two episodes.
• 'Will Trent' Season 4 and 'The Rookie' Season 8 kick off the new year on Tuesday, Jan. 6, promising more thrilling drama.
• 'American Idol' and 'The Bachelorette' are shaking things up with new nights and exciting twists in their upcoming seasons.

Alright, fellow TV fanatics, buckle up because ABC is coming in hot with a jam-packed 2026 midseason schedule, and trust us, you're going to want to clear your calendars! After a "phenomenal fall season" (their words, not ours, but we agree!), the network is bringing back a stellar lineup of hilarious comedies, pulse-pounding dramas, and high-stakes unscripted series. And yes, that includes the show we've all been dreaming about: the return of Sacred Heart Hospital in the 'Scrubs' revival!

This isn't just a few new episodes; it's a full-on TV buffet designed to keep you glued to your screens from January right through March. From the thrilling mysteries of 'Will Trent' and 'The Rookie' to the laugh-out-loud moments of 'Abbott Elementary' and the emotional rollercoaster of 'American Idol,' there's truly something for everyone. And the best part? All original programming will be available to stream the very next day on Hulu, so you won't miss a beat.

Sacred Heart is Back in Business: The Highly Anticipated 'Scrubs' Revival Premiere

Let's just get to the big one, shall we? After more than 15 years, the beloved medical comedy 'Scrubs' is officially scrubbing back in! Mark your calendars for Wednesday, Feb. 25, because that's when the two-episode series premiere hits ABC at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Fans will be thrilled to know that many of the original crew are returning to their iconic roles. That's right, Zach Braff is back as the delightfully quirky J.D. Dorian, Donald Faison as his best bromance buddy Dr. Christopher Turk, and Sarah Chalke as the always-on-her-toes Dr. Elliot Reid. But wait, there's more! Judy Reyes (Carla Espinosa) and John C. McGinley (Dr. Perry Cox) are also set to reprise their roles, promising that classic Sacred Heart dynamic we all know and love.

The revival promises to blend the old with the new, with a fresh crop of interns and a changing medical landscape, but with the core of JD and Turk's friendship still shining through. New additions to the cast include comedy powerhouses Vanessa Bayer and Joel Kim Booster, who are sure to bring their unique talents to the halls of the hospital. The original series creator, Bill Lawrence of Doozer Productions, is back as an executive producer, alongside Jeff Ingold and Liza Katzer. Aseem Batra takes the helm as executive producer and showrunner, with Tim Hobert and Randall Winston also executive producing. It’s produced by 20th Television, part of Disney Television Studios, ensuring it stays in the family.

We’ve even caught a glimpse of J.D. and Turk running through the halls of Sacred Heart in a first-look photo, ready to deliver that signature "Eaaaaaagle!"

Thrilling Dramatic Returns for 'Will Trent' and 'The Rookie' in January

If you're into high-stakes investigations and gripping police work, then January 6th is your day! ABC's powerhouse Tuesday night lineup returns with the season premieres of 'Will Trent' and 'The Rookie', joined by the midseason return of 'High Potential'.

'Will Trent' Season 4 Kicks Off With Star Ramon Rodriguez Directing

First up, 'Will Trent' kicks off its fourth season at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Tuesday, Jan. 6. And get this – the season premiere episode is directed by none other than the show's star and executive producer, Ramón Rodríguez! How cool is that?

Season three left us on some serious cliffhangers. We're talking about Angie's unexpected pregnancy, Amanda landing in the hospital, and Will discovering that Sheriff Caleb Roussard is his biological father. Talk about a bombshell! Ramón Rodríguez himself teased in an interview with the LA Times that there are "just so many questions that we will get to explore" and even hinted at potential "new love in Will's life?" We're definitely ready to dive back into Will's complex world.

'The Rookie' Season 8 Adventures Head to the Czech Republic

Following 'High Potential' (which is now in a new time slot at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT and continues to be a viewership powerhouse, ranking as the No. 1 original broadcast series across platforms among Adults 18-49), 'The Rookie' is back for its eighth season at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on Tuesday, Jan. 6.

And this season is starting with a bang – or should we say, a passport stamp! Officer John Nolan won't be in sunny Los Angeles for long. The season eight premiere opens with Nolan (Nathan Fillion) in Prague, Czech Republic! Showrunner Alexi Hawley shared his ambition for this international twist: "When I first said, hey, I want to go to Prague for season eight, I got some looks, because that's not a normal network television thing to do... But I'm like we can absorb it, because we've gotten really good at making the show." Nathan Fillion even chimed in, saying the experience "felt like we were making Casino Royale." Jenna Dewan, who plays Nolan's wife Bailey Nune, was also spotted in Prague, suggesting her involvement in this high-stakes arc, which is expected to feature the return of series antagonist Monica Stevens.

"Across ABC and its streaming home on Hulu, we have the best shows on television, from acclaimed dramas to standout comedies and unscripted hits. Our midseason schedule underscores our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional storytelling and engaging content to audiences wherever they choose to watch."

— Craig Erwich, President, Disney Television Group

A Delightful Dose of Returning Comedies and Unscripted Fan Favorites

ABC isn't just about intense drama; they're bringing back a strong lineup of comedies and unscripted shows to keep us entertained. Wednesdays are looking particularly cheerful!

Wednesday Nights Offer Laughs with 'Abbott Elementary' and 'Shifting Gears'

Our favorite Emmy-Award winning teachers are back! 'Abbott Elementary' returns for its fifth midseason on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT, right after 'Shifting Gears' (Season 2 midseason return) at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. Get ready for more hilarious, heartwarming, and often chaotic moments at the beloved Philadelphia elementary school. Plus, 'Shark Tank' fans, your favorite entrepreneurial show is also back with its Season 17 midseason return at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Medical and Emergency Action Continues to Thrive on Thursday Evenings

Thursday nights remain the domain of high-octane emergency services and long-running medical drama. Mark Thursday, Jan. 8, for the return of your favorites: '9-1-1' (Season 9 midseason return) at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT, followed by the new spin-off '9-1-1: Nashville' (Season 1 midseason return) at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. And rounding out the night, 'Grey's Anatomy' is back for its staggering 22nd midseason return at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Expect more intense cases, personal drama, and the signature twists and turns that keep these shows evergreen.

Unscripted Blockbusters and Sports Action to Keep You Entertained

Beyond the scripted series, ABC is bringing plenty of competition, reality, and sports to its midseason lineup, with some exciting changes for fan-favorite franchises.

'American Idol' Moves to a New Night with a Nashville Twist

It's time to find the next superstar! 'American Idol' premieres its 24th season overall (and ninth on ABC) on a brand-new night: Monday, Jan. 26, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. Music legends Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood are back at the judges' table, with Emmy Award-winning host Ryan Seacrest leading the charge.

This season comes with a significant twist for Hollywood Week. For the first time ever, 'American Idol' is bringing the iconic Hollywood Week round to Nashville! Dubbed "Hollywood Week: Music City Takeover," this new format will feature only one round where hopefuls from all musical genres will face "the biggest Hollywood Week cut in 'Idol' history." Sounds like the stakes couldn't be higher!

'The Bachelorette' Returns with a New Lead and a New Timeslot

After a year-long hiatus in 2025, 'The Bachelorette' is finally back! Season 22, starring 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' star Taylor Frankie Paul and hosted by Jesse Palmer, kicks off on its new night, Sunday, March 22, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. This move to Sundays is a change for the franchise, which traditionally aired on Mondays or Tuesdays, and comes amidst some creative shake-ups behind the scenes. Notably, 'The Bachelor' Season 30 has been pushed to a later, undetermined date due to these changes.

Game Shows and News Magazine Favorites Continue to Shine

And for those who love a good game show or a deep dive into current events, ABC has you covered:

• 'Celebrity Wheel of Fortune' (Season 6 midseason return) on Friday, Jan. 9, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.
• ABC News' '20/20' (Season 48 midseason return) on Friday, Jan. 9, at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.
• Ken Jennings-hosted 'Celebrity Jeopardy! All Stars' (Season 4 premiere) returns Friday, Feb. 27, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.

NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC Returns for Sports Fans

Basketball fans, rejoice! 'NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC' returns for select Saturdays beginning Jan. 24, with the Los Angeles Lakers taking on the Dallas Mavericks at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT, preceded by 'Inside the NBA' at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT. Get ready for some thrilling court action!

Your Complete Guide to ABC's 2026 Midseason Premiere Dates

Here’s a quick rundown of all the exciting premieres and returns you need to know about. Remember, all times are Eastern/Pacific, and every original episode will stream on Hulu the very next day!

Date	Time (ET/PT)	Show Title & Details
SUNDAY, JAN. 4	7:00 p.m.	America's Funniest Home Videos (Season 36 Return)
TUESDAY, JAN. 6	8:00 p.m.	Will Trent (Season 4 Premiere)
	9:00 p.m.	High Potential (Season 2 Midseason Return)
	10:00 p.m.	The Rookie (Season 8 Premiere)
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7	8:00 p.m.	Shifting Gears (Season 2 Midseason Return)
	8:30 p.m.	Abbott Elementary (Season 5 Midseason Return)
	10:00 p.m.	Shark Tank (Season 17 Midseason Return)
THURSDAY, JAN. 8	8:00 p.m.	9-1-1 (Season 9 Midseason Return)
	9:00 p.m.	9-1-1: Nashville (Season 1 Midseason Return)
	10:00 p.m.	Grey's Anatomy (Season 22 Midseason Return)
FRIDAY, JAN. 9	8:00 p.m.	Celebrity Wheel of Fortune (Season 6 Midseason Return)
	9:00 p.m.	20/20 (Season 48 Midseason Return)
SATURDAY, JAN. 24	8:00 p.m.	Inside the NBA
	8:30 p.m.	NBA Saturday Primetime: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks
MONDAY, JAN. 26	8:00 p.m.	American Idol (Season 24 Premiere)
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25	8:00 p.m.	Scrubs (Two-Episode Series Premiere)
FRIDAY, FEB. 27	8:00 p.m.	Celebrity Jeopardy! All Stars (Season 4 Premiere)
SUNDAY, MARCH 22	8:00 p.m.	The Bachelorette (Season 22 Premiere)

And while it's not on the immediate schedule, keep an eye out for 'RJ Decker,' a new drama series starring Scott Speedman, which is also set to debut in 2026. A premiere date will be announced later. With seven dramas and ten scripted series overall, ABC is clearly committed to delivering a robust and engaging viewing experience.

This midseason slate really highlights ABC's ongoing commitment to "exceptional storytelling and engaging content," as Craig Erwich mentioned. Whether you're a long-time fan of 'Grey's Anatomy' or eagerly awaiting the return of the 'Scrubs' gang, there's a lot to be excited about. Get ready to settle in for a fantastic start to 2026!

Frequently Asked Questions About the New ABC Midseason Lineup

When does the 'Scrubs' revival premiere and who is in it?

The 'Scrubs' revival premieres with a two-episode event on Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. Original stars Zach Braff, Donald Faison, Sarah Chalke, Judy Reyes, and John C. McGinley are returning, joined by new cast members Vanessa Bayer and Joel Kim Booster.

Where can I watch ABC's midseason shows if I miss the live broadcast?

All original programming from ABC's midseason schedule will be available to stream the very next day on Hulu. So, you can catch up on 'Will Trent,' 'The Rookie,' 'Abbott Elementary,' and all the other returning favorites at your convenience.

Are there any major changes to fan-favorite shows this midseason?

Yes! 'American Idol' is moving to Monday nights, starting Jan. 26, and will feature its iconic Hollywood Week in Nashville for the first time. 'The Bachelorette' will also air on a new night, Sundays, beginning March 22, with a new lead, Taylor Frankie Paul. Additionally, 'High Potential' is moving to a new time slot on Tuesdays at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.

What's happening with 'The Bachelor' in 2026?

Due to creative changes and behind-the-scenes shake-ups within the franchise, 'The Bachelor' Season 30 is being pushed to a later, undetermined date in 2026. 'The Bachelorette' will be the next installment of the franchise to air.

Sources

• 'Scrubs' Reboot Sets ABC Release Date, 'Will Trent' Season 4 and 'The Rookie' Season 8 to Premiere in January
• Midseason 2026 TV Schedule: Full List of Network Premiere & Return Dates
• ABC Sets Midseason Premiere Dates
• ABC Winter TV Schedule 2026: Here's When Scrubs, The Rookie, and Will Trent Premiere
• The Rookie season 8 premiere date revealed alongside Will Trent season 4 and the return of High Potential
• Scrubs Sequel Series Release Date Revealed: ABC Sets Super-Sized Premiere
• ABC Sets Midseason Schedule: Scrubs Revival, The Rookie And Will Trent Return Dates Revealed