In a surprising move, CBS has announced the cancellation of two popular spinoffs from its FBI franchise: FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International. Both series have been well-received by audiences, yet the network has decided to conclude them after their respective sixth and fourth seasons.
Reasons Behind the Cancellations
The decision to cancel these shows comes amid a broader strategy by CBS to streamline its programming lineup. Several factors contributed to this move:
- Declining Viewership: Both spinoffs experienced a decrease in viewership over recent seasons. FBI: Most Wanted averaged 6.5 million viewers per episode in its final season, marking a 10% drop from the previous year. Similarly, FBI: International saw a decline of 10% in its viewership compared to its third season.
- Financial Considerations: Producing these series involved significant costs, especially for FBI: International, which filmed in various international locations. CBS has been focusing on reducing expenses across its programming.
- Programming Strategy: The network aims to make room for new content, including the upcoming spinoff FBI: CIA. This series is set to explore domestic terrorism cases in New York City and will feature a collaboration between an FBI agent and a CIA operative.
Impact on the FBI Franchise
While the cancellation of these spinoffs marks the end of an era, the original FBI series continues to thrive. CBS has renewed the flagship show through the 2026–2027 season, ensuring its place in the network’s lineup for the foreseeable future.
The introduction of FBI: CIA reflects CBS’s commitment to expanding the FBI universe. The new series is expected to bring fresh perspectives and storylines, potentially attracting a new audience while retaining the core elements that fans appreciate.
Final Seasons and Availability
Both FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International will conclude their runs with their respective season finales in May 2025. Fans eager to revisit these series can stream them on various digital platforms.
