CBS is shaking up the FBI franchise in a big way.
The network just announced that FBI: International and FBI: Most Wanted will both be canceled after their current seasons, leaving fans wondering what happened.
While CBS hasn’t officially stated a reason, all signs point to a major franchise overhaul.
The network is currently making room in the programming schedule for a brand-new spin-off, FBI: CIA, currently in development with creator Dick Wolf.
The move suggests CBS is shifting their focus to fresh projects, rather than maintaining long-running spin-offs.
The cancellations still come as a surprise, especially given the success of both series. FBI: Most Wanted premiered in 2020 and will end after its sixth season, while FBI: International, which debuted in 2021, will end with Season 4.
However, there may have been signs of this series shake-up happening as early as last year: Back in May 2024, CBS announced cost-cutting measures, reducing minimum episode guarantees for the cast of FBI and FBI: Most Wanted. The budget trims potentially hinted at a shift in priorities for the network.
CBS has also used this strategy before: NCIS: Hawai’i was canceled just months before the debut of NCIS: Origins, a prequel to the long-running crime drama.
As a result, it would not come as a surprise if the network was once again replacing established spin-offs with newer ones to keep audiences engaged.
As for FBI: CIA, details are still under wraps, but the show will reportedly follow a dedicated FBI agent and a street-smart CIA agent as they join forces to combat domestic terrorism in New York City.
The series is now casting for three series regular roles. The pilot will air as a springtime episode of FBI. If ordered to series, FBI: CIA would premiere during the 2025-26 TV season. Get more details.
Find out what FBI: Most Wanted is doing for its 100th episode.
