After years of successful Tuesday night lineups, CBS has officially canceled two of its popular procedural dramas, FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, bringing an end to two spinoffs that expanded the universe of the original FBI series. The decision comes as part of a broader strategic shift at the network, despite both shows maintaining solid viewership and loyal fanbases.
❌ The End of the Road for Two Spinoffs
CBS confirmed in May 2025 that it would not be renewing FBI: Most Wanted (which completed its 6th season) and FBI: International (which ended with Season 4). Both shows were created by Dick Wolf and were part of the franchise’s extended universe, airing alongside the main FBI series since 2020 and 2021, respectively.
Despite consistent ratings and strong social media support, CBS executives cited budget constraints and the need for “fiscal discipline” in a post-strike, cost-conscious media environment.
“It’s a tough decision,” said CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach. “We remain committed to the FBI brand and are excited to continue the flagship series. But difficult choices had to be made.”
📊 Performance vs. Production Costs
FBI: Most Wanted consistently ranked in the top 15 network shows and was lauded for its darker tone and character-driven storytelling. FBI: International, which took viewers into Europe and beyond, earned praise for its globe-spanning format and multicultural cast.
However, the growing production expenses, especially for International, which filmed overseas in locations such as Budapest and Prague, became increasingly difficult to justify in a shifting TV economy. Industry insiders suggest CBS is pivoting toward shows with lower operating costs and higher potential for streaming profitability.
💬 Cast Reactions: “Gratitude & Growth”
Following the announcement, several cast members shared their reactions online:
- Edwin Hodge (Most Wanted) expressed “abundance and appreciation” for his time on the show.
- Luke Kleintank (International) thanked fans for their “unwavering support” and said the series was “an experience of a lifetime.”
- Behind the scenes, many writers and crew members spoke of the “bittersweet” ending, acknowledging the pride of working on one of Dick Wolf’s most globally recognized franchises.
✅ FBI Continues With Season 8 — and Beyond
While its spinoffs come to a close, the original FBI will return with Season 8 this fall, and CBS has confirmed the series is renewed through at least Season 10 under a previously announced multi-season deal.
The main show, led by Zeeko Zaki, Missy Peregrym, and Jeremy Sisto, remains one of CBS’s most reliable ratings performers, focusing on high-stakes cases tackled by the New York-based field office of the FBI. Season 7 wrapped with major cast changes and emotional arcs that teased a renewed energy for future episodes.
🔄 What’s Next for the Franchise?
Despite the loss of Most Wanted and International, the FBI franchise isn’t shrinking — it’s evolving.
CBS recently announced development of a new spinoff series titled “CIA”, focused on a collaboration between the FBI and CIA to combat domestic threats. Tom Ellis (of Lucifer fame) is set to star in the lead role, and the series is expected to debut in Fall 2025, immediately following the FBI time slot on Monday nights.
🎬 Final Thoughts
The cancellation of FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International marks the end of a highly successful chapter in network television. These spinoffs brought variety, depth, and global scope to the FBI brand. Their departure reflects not a failure, but a shifting media environment where financial prudence increasingly guides programming decisions.
Still, for millions of loyal fans, the legacy of these shows will live on — not only in streaming reruns and memories but in the continued stories of the flagship FBI series, and whatever bold direction Dick Wolf takes next.
