There have been some surprise decisions on network schedules over the last few years, but CBS has usually been pretty consistent. However, the CBS fall 2026 schedule threw us all for a bit of a loop.
Shows that we expected to premiere in the fall are being held for the midseason. However, other networks will want to take note. While there is some disappointment in the hold, CBS is showing how to handle the break.
CBS Fall 2026 Schedule Holds Ghosts and Matlock
In a surprising move, Ghosts and Matlock are being held for the midseason. CBS is dropping down to just one comedy block in the week, getting rid of the Monday lineup and opting only for two comedy shows on Thursdays. Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage will continue to air on Thursdays at 8/7c, and then the new comedy Eternally Yours will air in the half-hour afterward.
Usually, that would run into Matlock, but that show is being held for the midseason. Elsbeth will now move forward an hour, with the new series Cupertino airing in the last slot of the night.
This doesn’t mean Ghosts and Matlock are in trouble. Holding to the midseason is likely strategic to help with consistency, and CBS is making sure we’re not left without any episodes at all, especially when it comes to the half-hour Rose McIver comedy.
Ghosts Specials Are Still Happening
This is where the other networks should take note. Ghosts will still air some holiday specials. There will be an hour Halloween special and an hour Christmas special, and that’s great news for fans. After all, those specials are often the best episodes of each season. They’re certainly the ones we look forward to the most.
Specials are a great way to keep us engaged with the show. They help to keep the wait to a minimum, and they give us something to count down to. In fact, quality over quality is always welcome — although Ghosts Season 6 will still have 22 episodes, and the specials will count toward those episodes.
This is very much like what the British do. At Christmas, there are often specials for favorite comedies and dramas, with Call the Midwife and Doctor Who being ones fans have looked forward to in recent years.
It’s also better for the networks around this time of year. Most of us are willing to take an hour out of our Christmas holidays for a special episode of our favorite shows. The marketing will need to be great, and this needs to become more consistent, but it can help to gain more eyes on particular TV shows.
The Full CBS Fall 2026 Schedule
Here’s the full fall 2026 schedule for CBS. I’ll break down some of the other changes and decisions this week!
Sundays
8 p.m.: Marshals
9 p.m.: Tracker
Mondays
8 p.m.: FBI
9 p.m.: CIA
10 p.m.: Harlan Coben’s Final Twist
Tuesdays
8 p.m.: NCIS
9 p.m.: NCIS: New York
10 p.m.: NCIS: Origins
Wednesday
8 p.m.: Survivor
9:30 p.m.: The Amazing Race
Thursdays
8 p.m.: Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage
8:30 p.m.: Eternally Yours
9 p.m.: Elbeth
10 p.m.: Cupertino
Fridays
8 p.m.: Sheriff Country
9 p.m.: Fire Country
10 p.m.: Boston Blue
