Fans of FBI have recently noticed a puzzling pattern during Season 7: two of the show’s most beloved characters, OA (Zeeko Zaki) and Maggie (Julie Berman), have been conspicuously absent from several episodes — sometimes without any narrative explanation. Now, insider reports reveal that this is the result of a contract shake-up and budget cuts affecting the show’s production.
The Surprising Disappearances
Throughout Season 7, OA and Maggie’s screen time has been noticeably reduced. Several episodes pass without showing the couple together, or even appearing onscreen at all. For example, OA missed Episode 15 (“Acolyte”) entirely, while Maggie’s appearances have become sporadic.
Fans quickly took to social media and discussion boards to question why these central characters seemed “missing in action” during key plot moments. Some worried that Zeeko Zaki or Julie Berman might be leaving the series, but CBS has since confirmed both actors remain on the show.
Behind the Scenes: Contract and Budget Constraints
According to multiple insider sources, the reduced screen time stems from recent contractual agreements requiring Zeeko Zaki and Julie Berman to take mandatory breaks of approximately two episodes per season. This measure was reportedly introduced as part of cost-cutting efforts amid tighter budgets for the show.
“This is a cost-saving strategy — balancing budget while keeping core cast intact,” a production insider explained. “It means certain main characters have to be rotated out occasionally.”
This arrangement has led to episodes where OA or Maggie are either entirely absent or appear only briefly, sometimes without much narrative focus.
How the Show Handles Their Absences
The writers have employed a mix of storylines to explain or sideline these characters’ absences, including undercover assignments, personal leave, or off-screen events. For instance, OA is expected to return in Episode 16, reportedly with an undercover storyline to justify his sudden disappearance.
Fan Reactions: Mixed Feelings
The audience’s reaction to these changes has been mixed. While some understand the realities of television production and appreciate the show’s efforts to keep their favorite actors, others express frustration at the disruption to character development and on-screen chemistry.
On fan forums, viewers have voiced concerns such as:
“Why have OA and Maggie barely shared screen time lately? Their relationship is a highlight of the show!”
“I miss seeing their scenes together — it feels like we’re missing key moments.”
What This Means for Season 8 and Beyond
As FBI continues into Season 8, producers face the challenge of maintaining strong character arcs amid ongoing budget constraints. Fans hope OA and Maggie will regain more consistent screen presence, especially given their popularity and important roles within the team dynamic.
In Summary:
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OA and Maggie have reduced screen time in Season 7 due to contract stipulations tied to budget cuts.
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Actors Zeeko Zaki and Julie Berman must take planned absences of about two episodes each season.
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The show writes these absences into the story with undercover missions or personal leaves.
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Fans express mixed feelings, hoping for more balanced appearances in future seasons.
