The CBS network is gearing up for a significant shake-up in its widely popular FBI franchise for the upcoming 2025–2026 television season. After years of success with the original FBI series and its two successful spin-offs — FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International — fans and critics alike are watching closely as CBS announces bold new moves designed to refresh and expand the universe.
End of Two Spin-Offs, Birth of a New Series
Earlier this year, CBS officially confirmed the cancellation of FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, both of which had garnered solid fan bases but faced rising production costs and shifting audience dynamics. While these cancellations mark the end of an era for the franchise’s extended family, CBS is simultaneously preparing to launch a brand-new spin-off titled “FBI: CIA”.
This new series will spotlight the collaboration between the FBI and the Central Intelligence Agency, with a focus on domestic counterterrorism efforts in New York City. In a notable casting choice, actor Tom Ellis, best known for his role in Lucifer, will lead the show as a CIA agent paired with an FBI operative, creating a fresh dynamic and new storytelling opportunities.
A Bold Strategy: No Pilot Episode
In an unusual move for network television, CBS has decided to bypass the traditional pilot episode for FBI: CIA. Instead, the network has ordered the series straight to production and scheduled it for a full season debut. This approach signals CBS’s confidence in the franchise’s staying power and the creative direction of the new show.
Network executives have expressed optimism about this strategy, citing strong fan loyalty and the proven formula of procedural dramas. They believe that FBI: CIA will capitalize on audiences’ appetite for high-stakes crime-solving dramas while adding the espionage thriller element.
What This Means for the Franchise
With the original FBI series renewed through Season 10, CBS appears committed to maintaining the franchise’s core while exploring new angles. The new series promises to introduce more covert operations, international intrigue, and complex character dynamics.
Fans can expect familiar procedural storytelling combined with deeper dives into intelligence work, reflecting real-world concerns about national security and counterterrorism. The showrunners have promised to maintain the authenticity and emotional depth that fans have come to love.
Fans React
Reactions from the fan community have been mixed but largely positive. While many express sadness over the end of FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, excitement about FBI: CIA is growing. Social media buzz reflects curiosity about how the new show will differentiate itself and how the characters’ relationships will develop.
Television critics have noted that CBS is wisely adapting to changing viewer preferences by innovating within a proven franchise rather than risking a complete reboot.
Looking Ahead
As production on FBI: CIA begins and the 2025–2026 season approaches, CBS’s FBI universe is poised for an exciting evolution. Viewers can look forward to the familiar intensity, compelling characters, and high-stakes drama that have made FBI a ratings success — all while exploring new facets of law enforcement and intelligence collaboration.
Stay tuned for casting announcements, premiere dates, and exclusive sneak peeks as this next chapter unfolds.
