As we approach the new year, TV fans find themselves grappling with a wave of anxiety regarding the fates of their favorite characters. The fall finales have left viewers on the edge of their seats, with over ten primetime characters facing potentially deadly cliffhangers. From perilous situations on shows like Chicago Fire and Fire Country to life-threatening medical emergencies on Grey’s Anatomy and 9-1-1, the stakes have never been higher. As we gear up for the returns in 2026, let’s delve into the characters whose futures are uncertain, and the dire circumstances they find themselves in.
Hen, 9-1-1
Hen’s health has taken a concerning turn, with alarming symptoms including hand tremors and a blackout that lasted hours. These issues prompted her to undergo a full-body scan, leaving fans anxious about what could be a serious condition. As a first responder, Hen’s well-being is crucial not just for her but for her team and family.
Return Date: Thursday, Jan. 8, at 8/7c on ABC
Blythe, 9-1-1: Nashville
In a shocking twist, Blythe found herself in a life-threatening situation when hackers triggered a false tornado alarm, causing her horse to panic and throw her into barbed wire. Lying unconscious, her firefighter husband and son were oblivious to her peril. The emotional toll of this cliffhanger has left fans worried about her fate.
Return Date: Thursday, Jan. 8, at 9/8c on ABC
Kelly Severide, Chicago Fire
Severide’s predicament escalated when he and OFI’s Van Meter were trapped in a building lobby that caught fire during a conversation with a targeted teacher. The promo hints at a challenging escape, but given Severide’s track record of surviving tough situations, fans hold onto hope for his survival.
Return Date: Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 9/8c on NBC
Caitlin Lenox, Chicago Med
Caitlin’s decision to check on a former patient during a rainstorm led to a harrowing encounter. After discovering the woman beaten in her basement, she was struck by the abuser before she could call for help. This shocking turn of events has left viewers anxious about her fate.
Return Date: Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 8/7c on NBC
Imani, Chicago P.D.
Imani’s impulsive nature got the better of her during the Raymond Bell investigation. Breaking protocol, she entered the Bell home after receiving a call from his granddaughter, only to hear a loud noise inside as the screen faded to black. This cliffhanger has fans speculating about her safety and the consequences of her actions.
Return Date: Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 10/9c on NBC
Jake and Bode, Fire Country
Bode’s heroism shone through when he rushed into a blazing forest to save his teenage mentee, Tyler. While he managed to shield them both with a tarp, the question remains: how long can they stay safe in such a dangerous environment? Meanwhile, Jake and his half-brother Malcolm faced a terrifying accident when their fire truck flipped over.
Return Date: Friday, Feb. 27, at 9/8c on CBS
Jo, Grey’s Anatomy
Jo’s life hangs in the balance as she faces heart failure while pregnant with twins. The fall finale left her fate in the hands of Dr. Winston Ndugu, who hasn’t performed a C-section in years. The tension surrounding this emergency procedure has fans on high alert, fearing for both Jo and her babies.
Return Date: Thursday, Jan. 8, at 10/9c on ABC
Senior, Matlock
Julian’s emotional journey took a heartbreaking turn when his father suffered a stroke, leading to a medically-induced coma. As Julian grapples with their complicated relationship, the uncertainty of Senior’s recovery looms large, adding depth to the storyline.
Return Date: Thursday, Feb. 26, at 9/8c on CBS
Travis, Sheriff Country
Travis’s heartfelt declaration of love to Sheriff Mickey Fox was quickly overshadowed by chaos when their station was besieged by a cult-like group. Amidst the turmoil, Travis was shot, and the severity of his injuries has left fans anxious about his survival.
Return Date: Friday, Feb. 27, at 8/7c on CBS
Colter, Tracker
Colter’s quest to help his friend John Keaton took a dire turn when Keaton was shot by an assassin. In a desperate attempt to save him, Colter rushed him to the hospital, only for their car to be shot at, resulting in a crash that left both men bleeding out. The cliffhanger has viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering if they will make it.
Return Date: Sunday, March 1, at 9/8c on CBS
As the new year approaches, fans are left with a mix of hope and dread for their beloved characters. With so many lives hanging in the balance, the anticipation for these shows to return is palpable. Who are you most worried about as we head into 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments!
