We’re back, baby! Chicago Fire was one of countless shows impacted by the actors strike, but it was one of the most proactive when it came to laying the foundation for season 12. It was one of the first shows to open its writers room, and among the first to prep soundstages for use when the strike was eventually resolved.
Well, we can all rejoice because the strike has been resolved. According to Deadline, the actors and the studios were able to reach an agreement, and sign a three-year contract that satisfied both sides of the aisle. This means that actors are free to discuss and promote their projects again, but more importantly, it means production can get underway for television shows.
Chicago Fire sets tentative start date for season 12
It was previously thought that the best case scenario for Chicago Fire would be a start date in December, but Screen Magazine has provided an update suggesting that season 12 could begin filming even earlier! The firefighting drama is eyeing a November 27 start for production, which means cast and crew would effectively report for duty right after Thanksgiving.
This is a terrific development, as it ensures that season 12 will be maximizing its allotted time. The earlier the show starts production, the earlier fans will get to see new episodes. Of course, there are a few things that need to fall in place to ensure this post-Thanksgiving start date.
The agreement reached between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP is still technically pending approval from the union’s National Board and its members. The timeline of this approval is unclear at the moment, but it could take up to a couple weeks to fully execute.
“We have arrived at a contract that will enable SAG-AFTRA members from every category to build sustainable careers”, read an email from the union. “Many thousands of performers now and into the future will benefit from this work.”
The November 27 start date also applies to the other titles in the One Chicago franchise, Chicago Med and Chicago PD. That being said, the previously reported episode count of 10-13 will still be upheld. The moved up date doesn’t allow for more episodes so much as it ensures this tentative number will be reached. Had the strike continued into December, or even the new year, then fans would be looking at a Chicago Fire season that would have had closer to 6-8 episodes.
