CBS has announced major changes in its FBI television franchise by canceling two popular series, FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, to make way for a brand-new spin-off titled FBI: CIA. This move is part of the network’s strategy to revamp its programming lineup for the 2025–2026 season.
End of an Era: FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International Wrap Up
After six seasons, FBI: Most Wanted will air its final episode in May 2025. Meanwhile, FBI: International, which premiered in 2021, will conclude after its fourth season. Both shows have experienced a decline in viewership. Most Wanted currently averages about 6.5 million viewers, down approximately 10% from the previous season, while International draws around 6.53 million viewers, lagging behind several other CBS dramas.
Financial considerations also contributed to the cancellations. CBS reportedly reduced the minimum episode guarantees for the main cast in 2024, signaling a shift in the network’s priorities.
Introducing FBI: CIA — A New Chapter in the Franchise
Replacing the canceled series, CBS is launching a new spin-off called FBI: CIA. This series will focus on a joint task force of FBI and CIA agents who handle national security threats around New York City.
FBI: CIA will follow a serious, by-the-book FBI agent paired with a clever CIA operative as they tackle terrorism and espionage cases. The lead role will be played by Tom Ellis, known for his role in Lucifer.
Notably, CBS chose a straight-to-series order, bypassing the traditional pilot episode to speed up production. The new show is expected to premiere in fall 2025, with its main characters introduced in an episode of FBI Season 7.
Looking Ahead for the FBI Universe
Although the cancellation of two long-running series marks the end of a chapter in the franchise, CBS remains committed to expanding and refreshing the FBI universe through new projects. This strategy reflects broader industry trends of revitalizing successful brands to adapt to evolving audience preferences.
CBS hopes FBI: CIA will bring fresh energy to the franchise, keeping loyal viewers engaged while attracting new fans who enjoy action-packed crime dramas with a spy thriller twist.
