In a significant change to its primetime lineup, CBS has announced the cancellation of two popular spinoffs from its FBI franchise: FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International. FBI: Most Wanted, which premiered in 2020, will end after its sixth season, while FBI: International, which debuted in 2021, will conclude following its fourth season. Both shows have been key parts of CBS’s Tuesday night programming but will not return for the 2025–2026 season.
Reasons Behind the Cancellations
Despite maintaining solid viewership numbers, CBS cited financial considerations as the primary reason for discontinuing the two series. FBI: Most Wanted averaged about 6.5 million viewers per episode in its final season, and FBI: International attracted a similar audience size. However, both shows experienced roughly a 10% decline in ratings compared to previous seasons. CBS Entertainment leadership explained that continuing the productions was no longer economically viable.
Additionally, the decision aligns with CBS’s strategy to streamline programming and focus on more cost-effective productions. Both shows were among the network’s most expensive dramas to produce. FBI: International involved extensive filming in Europe, while Most Wanted required frequent on-location shoots across the United States, leading to high travel and logistical costs.
The Future of the FBI Franchise
While FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International are concluding, CBS remains committed to the core FBI series, which has been renewed through its eighth season and continues to perform strongly in ratings. Furthermore, the network is expanding the franchise with a new spinoff titled FBI: CIA, slated to premiere in fall 2025. This new series will follow an FBI agent and a savvy CIA operative as they collaborate to combat domestic terrorism in New York City. Tom Ellis has been cast as the lead, bringing fresh energy and storytelling potential to the franchise.
Reactions from Cast and Fans
The cancellations have sparked mixed emotions among cast members and fans. Cast members took to social media to express gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the shows and thanked fans for their support over the years. Fans shared their disappointment online but remain hopeful about future installments of the franchise, especially with the upcoming FBI: CIA.
Conclusion
CBS’s decision to cancel FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International marks the end of two notable chapters in the network’s FBI universe. Though these shows will no longer continue, the franchise’s evolution with the introduction of FBI: CIA offers exciting new directions and fresh storytelling. As CBS adapts to shifting industry trends, viewers can expect the FBI franchise to remain a staple in their lineup, albeit in a renewed form.
