NBC is evaluating a longer first season for its freshman crime drama Line of Fire. Following a strong ratings performance that brought in 12 million viewers across multiple platforms after its September 21, 2026, premiere, the network has requested five additional scripts for the series.
The series, created by Joshua Safran and starring Peter Krause and Hope Davis, was initially slated for a 13-episode run. However, early audience engagement has prompted network executives to explore the possibility of expanding the season to 18 episodes.
Strong Early Ratings Drive Network Interest
The decision to request additional scripts comes after solid performance metrics across broadcast and streaming platforms. According to network reports, the series premiere reached nearly 12 million cross-platform viewers, including repeat broadcasts. , Line of Fire has improved NBC’s Monday night 10 p.m. time slot by approximately 48% in Live+3 multiplatform viewing compared to the previous fall season.
The show’s second episode also saw a 47% increase among adults ages 18-49 in same-day NBC viewing numbers compared to the premiere. These numbers make Line of Fire the first new scripted broadcast series of the 2026-2027 television season to receive a back script order.
The Script Order Distinction
Industry observers note an important distinction regarding the network’s move: requesting five additional scripts does not officially guarantee that the episodes will be produced and added to the broadcast schedule.
NBC and Peac**k Scripted Content President Lisa Katz addressed the potential expansion in statements to media outlets, highlighting that an 18-episode structure could align well with the show’s complex storytelling format and the network’s Monday night lineup. If executives greenlight production on the additional scripts, the season order will grow from 13 to 18 installments.
Inside the World of Line of Fire
Line of Fire centers on the Hollingsworth family, whose careers span multiple federal law enforcement branches. Peter Krause stars as Secret Service agent Mike Hollingsworth, alongside Hope Davis as his wife, Jane, a U.S. Marshal.
The cast also features Kat Cunning as FBI agent Clare, Tommy O’Brien as Secret Service agent Micah, Taylor Bloom as Department of Justice worker Russ, and Charlie Barnett as Jack. Produced by Universal Television, the series blends weekly investigative cases with an overarching conspiracy and intricate family dynamics.
As the creative team develops the new scripts, Line of Fire currently maintains its original 13-episode commitment, airing Monday nights at 10 p.m. ET on NBC and streaming the following day on Peac**k.
