CBS’s hit procedural FBI has captivated audiences with its high-stakes cases, fast-paced investigations, and authentic portrayal of federal law enforcement. But behind the gripping storylines lies a commitment to realism that goes far beyond what viewers see on screen. To ensure accuracy, the cast of FBI trains directly with real federal agents, gaining firsthand insight into the methods, mindset, and discipline required of those who protect the nation.
Learning From the Experts
From day one, series creator Dick Wolf insisted that FBI should feel grounded in reality. To make that happen, Wolf Entertainment and CBS partnered with former and current agents who serve as consultants on the show. These experts guide the actors through everything from investigative techniques and firearms handling to interrogation methods and the mental toll of the job.
Missy Peregrym, who plays Special Agent Maggie Bell, has spoken often about the value of this training. “You can’t fake the intensity of someone who’s been in the field,” she explained. “Working with real agents taught us how to carry ourselves, how to clear a room, and even how to approach someone with authority. It completely changes the way you move as an actor.”
Tactical Training: More Than TV Drama
Zeeko Zaki, who portrays Special Agent OA Zidan, noted that the weapons and tactical training were some of the most eye-opening aspects of preparing for the role. “We trained with live firearms at shooting ranges under strict supervision,” he said. “It wasn’t about becoming action heroes—it was about learning discipline, respect for the weapon, and precision under pressure.”
The training also included drills on clearing buildings, communicating in high-stakes situations, and handling the adrenaline of potential threats. Cast members have recalled being surprised at how much stamina and teamwork is required to perform even the simplest maneuvers in real life.
Psychological Insights
It’s not just about tactics. Real agents also spend time explaining the emotional and psychological challenges of the job. Agents walk the cast through scenarios that explore moral dilemmas, the weight of responsibility, and the toll that long investigations can take on personal lives.
Alana De La Garza, who plays Special Agent in Charge Isobel Castille, explained: “What really struck me was the strength it takes to lead. You’re not just responsible for the mission, but also for the safety of your team. That’s a pressure that never goes away, and I try to channel that into every scene.”
Attention to Detail Pays Off
The impact of this training is clear on screen. From the way Maggie and OA enter a crime scene to the way Isobel commands the bullpen, fans and even real agents have praised the series for its attention to detail.
One retired FBI agent, now working as a technical consultant, shared: “When I watch FBI, I see accuracy. The actors aren’t just pretending—they’ve studied how we operate. That’s what makes the show feel authentic rather than theatrical.”
Bridging Entertainment and Reality
The partnership between FBI and real federal agents is a rare blend of Hollywood and real-world law enforcement. While the series naturally takes dramatic liberties for storytelling, its foundation in real techniques gives it a credibility that resonates with viewers.
Zeeko Zaki summed it up best: “We’re storytellers, but those stories honor the real men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting this country. That’s why the training matters—it reminds us we’re representing something bigger than ourselves.”
Why It Matters
In an era when audiences crave both entertainment and authenticity, FBI has struck a balance. The combination of Dick Wolf’s signature storytelling and the cast’s hands-on training with federal agents ensures that the show delivers not only drama but also respect for the profession it portrays.
As FBI continues into new seasons, fans can expect that commitment to realism to remain at the heart of the series—because for Maggie, OA, and the rest of the team, the truth is what keeps viewers coming back week after week.
