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 hasnât officially stated a reason, all signs point to a major franchise overhaul. The flagship series, however, will continue for at least two more seasons following an early renewal by the network. 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 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. It would not come as a surprise if the network was once again replacing established spin-offs with newer ones to keep audiences engaged, like it has done for NCIS. 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. With FBI continuing for at least an eighth and ninth season and the upcoming spinoff FBI: CIA in development, there is still room for characters from the canceled series to reappear. Dick Wolfâs franchises, including Law & Order and One Chicago, have a strong history of crossovers and character transfers, meaning CBS could still find a way to incorporate beloved agents into ongoing stories, much like Shantel VanSanten’s Nina Chase.