Why CBS Isn’t Airing New FBI Episodes on November 26, 2024: A Brief Hiatus Explained
Fans of CBS’s FBI franchise might be disappointed to learn that no new episodes will air on November 26, 2024. This brief hiatus comes after some major cliffhangers across all three shows in the franchise: FBI, FBI: Most Wanted, and FBI: International. The network has opted to air reruns instead of fresh episodes, a decision likely tied to the Thanksgiving holiday and its effect on viewership.
Here’s what we know about the hiatus, the reasons behind it, and when fans can expect new episodes of their favorite shows.
Cliffhangers That Left Fans Waiting
The flagship series FBI ended its latest episode with a jaw-dropping twist. Jubal Valentine, one of the series’ central characters, was suspended by Isobel Castille after abusing his power. In an effort to protect his son, Tyler, who was arrested during a college protest, Jubal pressured the NYPD to release him. Though the case involving the murder of a student during the same protest was solved, Jubal’s personal actions raised serious questions about his future with the team. Could this be the beginning of the end for Jubal’s career at the FBI?
Over on FBI: Most Wanted, tensions at home simmered after Ray’s wife allowed Caleb to go to a club with his father, despite their mutual distrust of the man. This personal storyline followed a case involving violent thieves-turned-killers, maintaining the series’ tradition of blending high-stakes drama with relatable family issues.
Meanwhile, FBI: International shifted focus to an amusing yet personal subplot. During an intense investigation into Ukrainian criminals luring wealthy retirees into dangerous traps, Vo teased Wes about the two of them being matched on a dating app. This lighthearted moment brought a touch of humor to an otherwise dark storyline involving kidnappings in Poland.
Why No New Episodes on November 26?
CBS has not provided an official explanation for the November 26 hiatus, but it’s easy to infer the reasons. Here are the most likely factors:
- Thanksgiving Week Impact on Ratings
November 26 is just two days before Thanksgiving, a time when many viewers are busy traveling, shopping, or preparing for the holiday. Television ratings typically drop during this period, making it less advantageous for networks to premiere new episodes. By airing reruns, CBS avoids wasting new content on a night when fewer people are likely to tune in. - Strategic Episode Management
With FBI, FBI: Most Wanted, and FBI: International all expected to run throughout the season, a brief hiatus helps CBS spread out episodes more evenly. This ensures that the shows maintain momentum and avoid long gaps between episodes later in the season. - Reruns to Attract New Viewers
Interestingly, the reruns scheduled for November 26 aren’t from the current season. Instead, CBS has selected episodes from earlier seasons:- FBI Season 6, Episode 10
- FBI: International Season 3, Episode 10
- FBI: Most Wanted Season 5, Episode 3
These episodes may have been chosen to refresh viewers’ memories about previous storylines relevant to upcoming episodes or to showcase some of the franchise’s most popular stories in hopes of attracting new fans.
When Will New Episodes Return?
The good news for fans is that this hiatus will be short-lived. New episodes of all three FBI shows are set to resume the following week, on December 3, 2024. Here’s what viewers can expect:
- FBI: Jubal’s suspension will likely continue to loom large, and fans will eagerly await whether he can redeem himself and regain Isobel’s trust.
- FBI: Most Wanted: Ray’s family drama is bound to escalate, especially with Caleb’s father potentially stirring up more trouble.
- FBI: International: Vo and Wes’s budding romance could add a new dynamic to the team, while they continue tackling international threats.
Why Fans Should Embrace the Hiatus
While a one-week break might feel frustrating, it’s worth noting that the decision to air reruns isn’t just about filling time. These selected episodes offer an opportunity for fans to revisit standout moments in the franchise’s history or catch up on key plotlines. For newer viewers, it’s a chance to dive into the FBI universe and see why these shows have become staples of CBS’s primetime lineup.
Looking Ahead
As December approaches, the stakes across all three FBI shows couldn’t be higher. With Jubal’s future hanging in the balance, Ray navigating complex family dynamics, and Vo and Wes bringing a touch of romance to the international stage, there’s plenty to look forward to.
The brief Thanksgiving hiatus might leave fans longing for more, but it’s a strategic move by CBS to ensure that the remainder of the season packs the maximum punch. When new episodes return on December 3, the FBI franchise will be back to doing what it does best: delivering gripping stories, emotional drama, and edge-of-your-seat action.
