Fans of ABC’s hit police procedural Will Trent won’t have to wait much longer for new episodes. The network has officially confirmed that Will Trent will return for season 4 in early 2026, continuing the story of its sharp-eyed investigator and the evolving team around him. Based on the bestselling novels by Karin Slaughter, the series debuted in January 2023 and quickly established itself as a standout procedural thanks to its emotional depth, character-driven storytelling, and moments of humor. Season 3 wrapped in May 2025, leaving viewers eager for what comes next.
Will Trent season 4 release date confirmed
ABC has announced that Will Trent season 4 will premiere on January 6, 2026. The new season will follow a familiar rollout pattern for the show, which has previously launched new installments during the winter television window. Season 4 will consist of 18 episodes, according to industry reports. As with previous seasons, episodes will air weekly on ABC and will be available to stream on Hulu the following day.
Ramón Rodríguez returns — on screen and behind the camera
Series lead Ramón Rodríguez will reprise his role as Special Agent Will Trent, the observant and unconventional investigator working with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Rodríguez has been widely praised for bringing nuance to a character shaped by a traumatic childhood and dyslexia. Rodríguez is also expected to direct at least one episode in season 4, following his work behind the camera in season 3. He has previously said he enjoys the challenge of setting the tone for a new season, particularly in the premiere.
Who’s expected to return for season 4?
The core cast is expected to remain intact. This includes Erika Christensen, Iantha Richardson, Jake McLaughlin, and Sonja Sohn, who together form the backbone of the GBI team. Season 3 additions could also make returns. Gina Rodriguez, who joined the series as Assistant District Attorney Marion Alba and became romantically involved with Will, is not officially confirmed but has not been ruled out. The same applies to Scott Foley, who appeared as Dr. Seth McDale. Another open question is the future of Will’s biological father, Sheriff Caleb Roussard, played by Yul Vazquez, who was introduced late in season 3.
What to expect from the story
The show’s creators have teased that season 4 will open with Will in an emotionally unsettled place. After years of avoiding his past, Will begins confronting unresolved trauma and exploring therapy, a shift that will influence both his personal life and his work. Family is expected to be a central theme, especially following the introduction of Will’s father. Showrunners have said the dynamic offers new storytelling opportunities that balance support, conflict, and long-buried tension.
Where to watch Will Trent
All three previous seasons of Will Trent are currently streaming on Hulu. Season 4 episodes will air on ABC beginning January 6, 2026, and will be added to Hulu shortly after broadcast. As the countdown begins, Will Trent season 4 is shaping up to deliver higher emotional stakes while staying true to the grounded crime-solving that has defined the series so far.
