CBS has dropped a bombshell on crime drama fans, axing two popular FBI spin-offs, FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, while teasing a fresh series, FBI: CIA. Announced on March 4, 2025, this dramatic overhaul has left viewers reeling and sparked buzz about the future of the FBI franchise. With the original FBI series safe through 2027, CBS is reshaping its Tuesday night lineup—here’s what you need to know about this seismic shift in TV programming.
CBS Pulls the Plug on FBI Spin-Offs
FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International Face the Axe
In a move that stunned loyal viewers, CBS confirmed the cancellation of FBI: Most Wanted after six seasons and FBI: International after four. These Dick Wolf-produced spin-offs, which aired back-to-back with the flagship FBI series, had carved out a solid fanbase with their gripping procedural storytelling. FBI: Most Wanted, led by Dylan McDermott, followed a task force hunting America’s most dangerous fugitives, while FBI: International, starring Luke Kleintank, took viewers abroad with its Budapest-based Fly Team. Despite their popularity, both shows will wrap up in spring 2025, with writers promising satisfying finales.
Why Did CBS Cancel These Fan Favorites?
Though CBS hasn’t officially spilled the tea, industry insiders point to a crowded schedule and shifting priorities. The network’s decision aligns with plans to introduce FBI: CIA, a new spin-off focusing on domestic terrorism in New York City. Declining ratings for the axed series and the need to make room for fresh content—like upcoming spin-offs Sheriff Country and Boston Blue—likely fueled the cuts. Fans on X are buzzing, with many speculating this shake-up reflects CBS’s strategy to keep the FBI franchise evolving while trimming the fat.
A New Chapter: FBI: CIA on the Horizon
What’s Next for the FBI Universe?
While fans mourn the loss of FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, hope glimmers with FBI: CIA. This upcoming series promises a high-stakes twist, pairing a strait-laced FBI agent with a street-smart CIA operative to tackle terrorism threats. Set to debut as a backdoor pilot in FBI Season 7, FBI: CIA could redefine the franchise’s Tuesday night dominance. With the original FBI series—starring Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki—locked in through the 2026-2027 season, CBS is banking on this new venture to keep viewers hooked.
Fan Reactions: Outrage and Optimism Collide
The cancellations have ignited a firestorm online. “CBS, what are you doing?!” one X user fumed, echoing the frustration of fans who cherished the spin-offs’ crossover appeal. Yet others are intrigued by FBI: CIA, with speculation swirling about potential cast crossovers from the canceled shows. Could beloved characters like Nina Chase or Scott Forrester find a new home? Only time will tell.
The Future of CBS Crime Dramas Hangs in the Balance
CBS’s bold move to cancel FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International marks a pivotal moment for the FBI franchise. As the network doubles down on innovation with FBI: CIA, fans are left wondering: will this gamble pay off, or has CBS alienated its crime-drama diehards? With finales looming and a new series on the horizon, the stakes have never been higher. Stay tuned—this TV shake-up is far from over.
