NewsOne OCTOBER 2026
EXTRAS ADVISORY
Attention Stations:
NewsOne is pleased to share the stories and coverage planned for October. Several pieces are timed to coincide with key observances, but you’re welcome to air them whenever they best fit your schedule once they’ve been delivered. Unless otherwise noted, all stories will be available starting at 4:00 a.m. on the listed dates. If any delivery dates change, we’ll share updates promptly.
FRIDAY, October 2:
Amazon Prime Day & Competitive Sales
Prime Day is back Oct. 6-7 and other stores are offering sales to compete. Target Circle Deal Days will also be Oct. 6-7 and if this year is like years past, Walmart, Best Buy, and other retailers will be dropping prices too. We'll share expert tips for finding the best bargains.
MONDAY, October 5:
Toy Projections
What will be the got to-have toys this holiday season and how much will parents be willing to spend? As retailers begin rolling out their holiday inventory, we’ll look at the toys expected to dominate wish lists in 2026, the trends driving those purchases and whether inflation-conscious families are changing how they shop. Which toys could become the season’s hardest to find and when parents should buy to avoid paying more later.
THURSDAY, October 8:
Flu and Covid Shots
As flu season gets underway, millions of Americans are rolling up their sleeves for their annual flu shot. But five years after COVID vaccines became widely available, should people still be getting a COVID shot too and is it better to get both vaccines at the same appointment? We talk with doctors about who benefits most from an updated COVID vaccine, whether healthy younger adults still need one, the best timing heading into respiratory virus season, and whether getting the flu and COVID shots together changes effectiveness or side effects
WEDNESDAY, October 14:
Rental Loans
As rents remain high and household budgets stay tight, more people are searching for loans just to help cover their monthly rent. The trend raises a bigger question about how far families are having to stretch to keep up with basic expenses, with some renters turning to personal loans, cash advances and other forms of credit simply to stay housed. This story would look at what is driving those searches, how much borrowing to pay rent can ultimately cost, and what options may be available before renters take on new debt for a bill that comes due every month.
THURSDAY, October 15:
Young Breast Cancer Survivor Spreads Awareness
Sarah Sanders was diagnosed with breast cancer in her early 30s. The American Cancer Society says breast cancer incidence has been increasing about 1.4% a year among women younger than 50, faster than the overall increase, while CDC data also show a long-term rise among women younger than 45. Genetic testing revealed Sarah carried the BRCA gene mutation. Through encouraging family testing, she discovered the mutation came from her estranged father's side of the family, leading her to reconnect with previously unknown relatives in Colorado.
MONDAY, October 19:
Cashless Generation
Cash is disappearing from everyday life as more businesses, restaurants and entertainment venues move to card and mobile-only payments. We are witnessing the rise of a cashless generation and what it means for consumers who still rely on bills and coins. At Madison Square Garden, for example, they do not accept cash, so customers with cash can use a machine that converts it into a prepaid debit card. We will talk to a money expert about why businesses are going cashless, whether consumers are embracing the shift, and what happens to people who don’t have a credit card, bank account or digital wallet as paying with cash becomes increasingly difficult.
WEDNESDAY, October 21:
Dolly Parton Corn Maze
Dolly Parton's image is carved into the cornfield at Happy Day Farm in Manalapan, NJ, paying tribute to her as the corn maze for this season.
WEDNESDAY, October 21:
A Celebration of Dolly Parton (VO TEASE)
The "CMA and ABC Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton" will air live on Wednesday, Oct. 21
THURSDAY, October 22:
General Motors 'GM Forward' Tech Showcase
GM Forward's annual technology event showcasing the company's progress and outlining their long-term product and software roadmap. We'll get a first-hand look at immersive demos of the latest advancements across software, AI, and autonomy that are powering next-generation vehicle experiences.
WEDNESDAY, October 28:
MIDTERM ELECTIONS: Cost of Living
Many Americans are feeling priced out of everyday life. Diesel has climbed above $6 a gallon, pushing up transportation and production costs and adding pressure to the price of food and other goods. From housing and groceries to fuel and utilities, this package would look at what Americans are paying now, why costs remain so high and how those financial pressures are influencing voters this election season.
THURSDAY, October 29:
MIDTERM ELECTIONS: Trump on the Ballot (TWO WAYS)
President Trump is telling voters to act as if he is on the ballot this November. What does that mean for the midterms? The two-way you will discuss how much voters are judging congressional candidates on their own records versus their views of Trump’s presidency and what that could mean for the fight for control of Congress. Averi Harper will offer live two ways.
SATURDAY, October 31:
Extra Spooky Hour on Halloween/Fall Back (VO)
Halloween night is spilling right into the end of Daylight Saving Time. After a Saturday night of trick-or-treating, parties and late-night celebrations, Americans in most states will gain an extra hour overnight as the clocks fall back.
If you have any questions, please contact Mara Bush at mara.a.bush@abc.com or Nicole Block at nicole.block@abc.com