CBS Moves FBI to Monday Nights – A New Programming Strategy?

In a significant shift for the 2025–2026 television season, CBS has announced that its flagship procedural drama FBI will move from its longtime Tuesday night slot to Mondays at 9 p.m. ET. This change coincides with the introduction of a new spinoff series, CIA, starring Tom Ellis, which will air immediately following FBI at 10 p.m. ET. This Monday night lineup aims to create a cohesive “Dick Wolf Monday” block, featuring both FBI and CIA back-to-back.

The decision to relocate FBI to Mondays comes after CBS canceled its other FBI spinoffs, FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, due to financial considerations. Despite these cancellations, FBI remains a cornerstone of CBS’s programming, having been renewed through Season 10. The network is also expanding the FBI universe with the addition of CIA, which, while set in the same universe, will operate as a standalone series without direct crossover characters.

This strategic move reflects CBS’s broader efforts to streamline its programming and strengthen its brand identity. By consolidating its crime dramas into a single night, the network aims to build a dedicated viewership and enhance the overall viewing experience. The success of this new lineup will depend on audience reception and the ability of CIA to establish its own identity while complementing the established FBI series.

As the fall premiere approaches, viewers can look forward to a revamped Monday night lineup that promises to deliver compelling storytelling and dynamic character interactions. The success of this programming strategy will likely influence future scheduling decisions and the development of new series within the FBI franchise.

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