The traditional broadcast pilot season has been shrinking for years, and 2025 is proving to be one of the driest yet. ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox have largely moved away from ordering pilots in bulk, opting instead for planted spinoffs, development rooms, and straight-to-series commitments.
With industry contraction, streaming competition, and strike-related backlogs still affecting the landscape, networks are prioritizing cost-effective strategies over risky new shows.
Where the Big 4 Stand
ABC:
ABC has already secured 9-1-1: Nashville for next season and may only order 1-3 pilots for midseason 2026. The network’s “second cycle” approach, piloting outside the traditional window, has proven successful with shows like Shifting Gears and Will Trent.
CBS:
CBS leads in pilot activity, with multiple projects in the works. New series like Sheriff Country and Boston Blue have already been greenlit. The network also has drama pilots (Einstein starring Matthew Gray Gubler) and comedy pilots (DMV and Zarna) on the table, but no rush for additional orders.
Fox:
Fox remains committed to its international content strategy, having already renewed Doc and Murder In A Small Town. The network is likely to add two more dramas via straight-to-series orders, with projects like State Patrol and a Baywatch reboot in contention.
NBC:
With the most freshman series launching this season, NBC isn’t expected to pick up drama pilots for fall 2025. However, the comedy space remains active, with a 30 Rock team reunion comedy starring Tracy Morgan officially picked up for pilot.
The Future of Pilot Season
As networks increasingly lean on proven properties and non-traditional development cycles, the days of dozens of pilots leading to the May upfronts may be a thing of the past. While some pilots will still be ordered, the industry is embracing a new normal—one where fewer risks are taken, and efficiency is king.
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Source: Deadline
Photo Credit: Logos
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