CBS Cancels FBI Spinoffs, Leaving Fans in Shock

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — CBS has announced the cancellation of two popular spinoffs from its FBI franchise, FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, leaving fans and cast members in disbelief. FBI: Most Wanted will conclude its run after six seasons, while FBI: International will end after four seasons, with both set to air their final episodes this spring.

The flagship series, FBI, which has been a ratings success since its debut in 2018, will continue to air through the 2026-2027 broadcast season. Following the cancellations, CBS is set to introduce a new spinoff called FBI: CIA, which is currently in development and slated to be presented as a back-door pilot this season.

“This decision marks a surprising shift for the franchise. Both spinoffs were consistently strong performers, averaging about 7.5 million viewers weekly, according to Nielsen,” said a source familiar with CBS’s programming strategies.

Producers Dick Wolf and Universal Television have yet to announce whether they will seek new homes for the canceled series, which have garnered ratings comparable to several renewed CBS dramas. In 2022, Wolf Entertainment successfully moved another series, Law & Order: Organized Crime, from NBC to Peacock.

However, the two spinoff shows have struggled recently against a backdrop of increasing competition and a crowded television landscape dominated by franchises such as NCIS and the CBS staple Blue Bloods.

“This year has seen some tough calls across the landscape, but we remain committed to our flagship series and new content,” a CBS spokesperson stated. As the network continues its focus on franchise expansion, FBI: CIA aims to captivate audiences with a premise featuring a dedicated FBI agent and a street-smart CIA officer collaborating on domestic terrorism cases.

Meanwhile, the end of FBI: Most Wanted brings uncertainty for its cast, particularly Shantel VanSanten, whose character had significant ties to the original FBI series. “It’s hard to say what the future holds for any of us now that the spinoff is ending,” she commented.

Viewers have expressed disappointment over the cancelations but remain hopeful as the original FBI series remains strong. FBI has held a commanding position in prime time, thanks in part to its compelling storylines and star-studded cast, including Dylan McDermott, who joined FBI: Most Wanted in its second season.

Following news of the cancellation, Eva-Jane Willis, who appeared on FBI: International, shared her heartbreak on social media. “I want to thank Wolf Entertainment and CBS for everything. Our memories from shooting in Europe will last a lifetime,” she remarked. “Thanks to our incredible crew and all the fans who supported us throughout this journey.”

With a significant reshaping in programming underway at CBS, viewers will have to wait and see how the network will evolve while maintaining its stronghold on popular procedural dramas.