Fox finalized its fall 2026 broadcast schedule on July 13, 2026, opting to lean heavily into established reality television franchises and returning scripted hits rather than introducing new series. According to the network’s official announcement, the lineup features a focus on “bold, iconic and energetic entertainment,” with premiere dates beginning September 21, 2026.
Strategic Shifts in Network Programming
While networks like NBC have confirmed four new series for the upcoming season, Fox is doubling down on proven performers. Shows such as The Floor and 99 to Beat return to anchor the mid-week schedule, while flagship reality competitions like Hell’s Kitchen and Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test maintain their established Thursday night slots.
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Fox has already greenlit new series including Baywatch, The Interrogator, and Marriage Market, but these titles are currently absent from the immediate fall 2026 premiere calendar, suggesting they may be held for mid-season launches or 2027.
Fall 2026 Premiere Schedule
Viewers can expect the following rollouts for the autumn season, per Fox’s official schedule release:
- Monday, Sept. 21: Celebrity Name That Tune (Season 6) at 8 p.m. ET/PT; Celebrity Weakest Link (Season 2) at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
- Tuesday, Sept. 22: Best Medicine (Season 2) at 8 p.m. ET/PT; Doc (Season 3) at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
- Wednesday, Sept. 23: The Floor (Season 6) at 8 p.m. ET/PT; 99 to Beat (Season 2) at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
- Thursday, Sept. 24: Hell’s Kitchen (Season 25) at 8 p.m. ET/PT; Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test (Season 5) at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
- Sunday, Sept. 27: The Simpsons (Season 38) at 8 p.m. ET/PT; Animal Control (Season 5) at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT; Universal Basic Guys (Season 3) at 9 p.m. ET/PT; Grimsburg (Season 3) at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.
Sports Programming Dominance
Outside of prime-time entertainment, Fox continues to utilize its sports portfolio to anchor the end of the week. Starting September 4, 2026, the network shifts to Fox College Football on Friday nights at 8 p.m. ET. Weekend sports coverage remains a staple, with Fox Sports Saturday scheduled from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. ET throughout the fall.
If you are looking for new content, keep an eye on mid-season announcements. Networks frequently use the “off-season” or mid-winter gaps to debut the new series that didn’t make the initial fall cut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any new shows on Fox this fall?
No. Fox’s fall 2026 schedule is comprised entirely of returning series. New shows like Baywatch and The Interrogator have been announced but have not yet been assigned a premiere date.
When do the Sunday night animated series return?
The Simpsons, Animal Control, Universal Basic Guys, and Grimsburg are all scheduled to premiere their new seasons on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
How does this compare to other networks?
While Fox is focusing on established hits, NBC has publicly confirmed a different strategy, including the introduction of four new shows alongside the cancellation of nine others for the 2026 season.
Are you excited for the return of your favorite reality competitions, or were you hoping for a new scripted drama this fall? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our entertainment newsletter for updates on mid-season premiere dates.
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