Variety's TV News Roundup: Premiere Dates, Revivals, Documentaries, and Casting Updates

Guillermo del Toro

Oscar-winning filmmaker and author whose work and commentary explore fantasy, horror, and cinema.

This extensive television news digest brings together the latest developments across various segments of the entertainment world, highlighting significant announcements in series premieres, educational programming revivals, sports documentaries, animated show updates, and award ceremonies. From the dramatic return of a popular series to the expansion of a cherished children's program, and from an insightful look into collegiate athletics to new talent joining a singing competition, the landscape of television content continues to evolve with fresh offerings and returning favorites. Furthermore, the industry gears up to celebrate achievements in children's and family entertainment, alongside the unveiling of a new season for a true-crime docu-series.

Television Landscape Buzzes with Premieres, Revivals, and New Talent

On February 25, 2026, The CW officially announced the highly anticipated return of the drama series 'Sullivan's Crossing.' The fourth season is slated to debut on April 20, airing weekly from 8 to 9 p.m. ET/PT. This ten-episode season will delve deeper into Maggie Sullivan's life, as her career path at the Crossing solidifies and her relationship with Cal strengthens. However, the unexpected arrival of her ex-husband, Liam, threatens to disrupt her newfound stability, forcing Cal to confront the enduring influence of Maggie's past. Roma Roth serves as the showrunner and executive producer, with Fremantle managing international distribution, and all episodes will be available for next-day streaming on the CW App.

In heartwarming news for educational television, the iconic children's literacy series 'Reading Rainbow' is expanding its revival. Sony Pictures Television has commissioned an additional 24 episodes, with host Mychal Threets returning to guide young viewers through the joy of reading. Emmy Award-winning producer Kristen McGregor has joined the team as executive producer and showrunner, bringing her expertise from acclaimed shows like 'Sesame Street' and 'Ms. Rachel.' Produced by Embassy Row in collaboration with Buffalo Toronto Public Media, these new episodes aim to continue the franchise's legacy of fostering a love for books. Shortened versions of the episodes will also be released on Kidzuko, Sony's dedicated YouTube channel for children, which launched in 2024. The initial four revival episodes, released last fall, have already garnered over 4.79 million views, signaling strong demand for the series. Further details regarding celebrity guests and featured books will be announced soon.

Sports enthusiasts can mark their calendars for March 1 at 8 p.m. ET, as Fox Sports is set to premiere 'You See L.A.,' a new hour-long documentary special on FS1, coinciding with the start of Women's History Month. This film, a collaboration between AV8 Productions, Allez! Sports, and Hello Sunshine, shines a spotlight on the UCLA Bruins women's basketball program. It chronicles their historic 2024–25 season, which culminated in the team's inaugural Final Four appearance, while also integrating highlights from their current season. The documentary features head coach Cori Close and star players Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, and Gabriela Jaquez, capturing their remarkable postseason journey. Beyond the court, the film explores the team's deep connection with the Los Angeles community, featuring appearances by UCLA alumni and basketball legends Ann Meyers Drysdale, Reggie Miller, and Candace Parker. 'You See L.A.' will air directly after the UCLA–USC women's basketball game and is presented by Authentic Asia.

Apple TV has offered a sneak peek into the second season of the animated preschool series 'Wonder Pets: In The City,' scheduled for release on March 20. The show follows the adventures of three classroom pets – Izzy the Guinea Pig, Zuri the Bunny, and Tate the Snake – as they travel around New York City and beyond in their 'Jetcar,' undertaking musical, mini-opera-themed rescue missions. Developed by Emmy winner Jennifer Oxley, who also serves as executive producer alongside Steve Altiere and co-executive producer Jeffrey Lesser, the series is a Nickelodeon Animation production. The voice cast includes Victoria Scola-Giampapa as Izzy, Vanessa Huszar as Zuri, and Christopher Sean Cooper Jr. as Tate. The music-centric series features compositions from talents like Bobby Lopez, Jason Robert Brown, and Georgia Stitt, performed by the FILMharmonic Orchestra.

In the realm of reality television, comedian and actor Druski is slated to join the upcoming season of NBC's 'The Voice: Battle of Champions' as a special commentator. The 29th season premieres on February 23 at 9 p.m. ET on NBC, with next-day streaming available on Peacock. Hosted by Carson Daly, the show's coaching panel includes Kelly Clarkson, John Legend, and Adam Levine. Druski, making his debut as the series' first-ever commentator, will provide unique insights into the coaches' strategies, tracking aspects like the 'Triple Turn Competition' and 'Super Steal.' He will be joined by various NBA players throughout the competition. Druski gained prominence through his 'Coulda Been Records' sketches on YouTube and Instagram Live and has since embarked on a national comedy tour. 'The Voice' is a production of MGM Television, Warner Horizon Unscripted Television, a Warner Bros. Television Group company, and ITV Studios The Voice USA, Inc., created by John de Mol, who also executive produces.

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences has announced the presenters for the 4th Annual Children's & Family Emmy Awards (CAFE), taking place on March 2 at Jazz at Lincoln Center's Frederick P. Rose Hall in New York City. Presenters will include June Squibb, Kari Wahlgren, Rachel and Aron Accurso, and Amber Riley. John Tartaglia, a multi-award-winning actor and puppeteer, will host the event, with a performance by Regina Spektor. Robert Picardo from 'Star Trek: Voyager' will present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Bill Nye at the CAFE Honors Ceremony on March 1. Additional presenters include Jennifer Barnhart and 'Zoe' from 'Sesame Street,' Monique Coleman of 'High School Musical,' and Frankie Cordero and 'Purple Panda' from 'Donkey Hodie.' Original 'Avenue Q' Broadway cast members Tartaglia, d'Abruzzo, and Barnhart will present together. Alyssa Tucker will serve as the red carpet correspondent. The ceremonies will be streamed live on watch.theemmys.tv and through The Emmys apps.

Finally, Netflix has released a trailer and key art for the second season of 'Homicide New York,' which will be available on the platform starting March 25. The season will consist of five 60-minute episodes. Described by Netflix as a docu-series that illuminates some of New York City's most notorious crimes, the series features an elite team of NYPD detectives recounting the homicide investigations that defined their careers. Adam Kassen directed the season, with Dick Wolf, Dan Cutforth, Jane Lipsitz, Adam Kassen, Tom Thayer, Nan Strait, and Dan Volpe as executive producers. Wolf Entertainment & Alfred Street Industries served as the production company.

The constant evolution of television content, marked by new seasons, revived classics, insightful documentaries, and engaging talent, reflects the industry's dynamic nature and its continuous effort to captivate diverse audiences. From the heartwarming tales of 'Sullivan's Crossing' to the educational charm of 'Reading Rainbow,' the competitive spirit of 'The Voice,' and the compelling narratives of 'Homicide New York,' there's a rich tapestry of programming for viewers to explore. These announcements underscore the enduring power of storytelling across various genres and platforms, continually shaping our entertainment landscape.

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