FBI Season 7, Episode 21 Sets Up A Possible Exit For 1 Long-Time Character
CBS’s crime procedural FBI has always kept viewers on the edge of their seats with heart-pounding cases and deeply personal stories. But Season 7, Episode 21 raised a red flag—not about the case of the week—but about the future of a beloved mainstay in the series. After years of service, dedication, and growth, one of the long-time characters may be preparing to make their exit. And honestly, fans are not ready.
Let’s dive deep into what this episode revealed, why the writing’s on the wall, and what it could mean for the future of FBI.
🔎 Who’s the Character in Question?
Without officially confirming the departure, the writers gave us all the clues. From the character’s reflective moments to dialogue loaded with nostalgia, all signs seem to point to Special Agent Jubal Valentine as the one possibly preparing to step away.
🧠 Breaking Down the Episode’s Key Moments
A Heavy Focus on Jubal’s Inner Conflict
In Episode 21, the narrative leaned heavily into Jubal’s personal struggles. Between balancing his role as assistant special agent in charge and managing his recovery from alcoholism, the episode carved out unusual space for introspection.
Mentorship Passing the Torch?
Jubal was seen giving more autonomy to younger agents, specifically OA and Tiffany. It felt like a symbolic handing of the reins—another sign the writers could be prepping for a leadership change.
🧳 The Setup for an Exit: A Familiar TV Pattern
In the world of procedural television, exits rarely come out of nowhere. Fans of NCIS, CSI, or Law & Order know this trick: a character is slowly given emotional closure, mentor scenes increase, and finally—a big decision looms.
That pattern seems to be unfolding right now with Jubal.
🗣️ Subtle Conversations That Say So Much
“Maybe it’s time I take a step back.”
One line, easily overlooked, felt like a gut punch. Delivered in a quiet moment between Jubal and Isobel, it was drenched in subtext.
Emotional Distance From the Team
He’s still involved, but it feels like he’s starting to remove himself emotionally. It’s storytelling 101 for a graceful sendoff.
👤 Character Development: Jubal’s Journey from Season 1 to Now
Jubal started as the fast-talking, sharp-minded supervisor who juggled career pressure with a messy personal life. Over time, we’ve seen him grow:
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Battling addiction
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Rebuilding his relationship with his kids
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Becoming a mentor
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Holding the team together through crises
So, if he’s leaving now, it feels like the writers are saying, “Mission accomplished.”
📉 Is This a Ratings Move? Or a Natural Story Arc?
TV shows constantly reinvent themselves to stay fresh. Whether it’s due to contracts, ratings, or actor availability, major shakeups can be strategic.
Removing Jubal—if it happens—might be about making room for a new dynamic, possibly promoting OA into a leadership role.
💬 What Has Jeremy Sisto (Jubal) Said Recently?
Interestingly, Jeremy Sisto has hinted in recent interviews about “loving where Jubal’s story has gone” but has also acknowledged the physical and emotional toll of long-term procedural roles.
He’s stopped short of confirming any departure—but the ambiguity? That’s telling.
🎯 Could This Be a Fake-Out?
Let’s not forget, television loves misdirection. The writers could be playing with our emotions, setting up what looks like an exit only to pivot in the finale.
Still, this “exit setup” feels more final than fake.
📺 What Happens If Jubal Leaves the Show?
Impact on Team Dynamics
Losing Jubal would shake up the foundation. He’s the guy behind the glass, steering every operation. Who fills that void? Isobel? OA?
Shift in Tone and Leadership
His blend of urgency and compassion grounds the series. A new leader may tilt the tone—more analytical? More aggressive?
Opportunity for Fresh Storylines
An exit would also free up space for the writers to explore:
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OA’s leadership potential
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Tiffany stepping into a senior role
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More focus on Nina and Scola’s arc
🧱 What Season 7 Has Been Building Toward
From early on, Season 7 has carried an undercurrent of transition:
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Isobel’s growing authority
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OA’s maturity
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Jubal’s self-reflection
Episode 21 just finally tied it all together.
📅 What to Watch for in Episode 22 (Season Finale)
Episode 22 will likely answer the big question: Will Jubal leave?
Here’s what to keep an eye on:
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Final conversations with Isobel or OA
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A new job offer or reassignment
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A farewell dinner or wrap-up moment
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Scenes with his kids—often a goodbye clue
🤔 Why Do Characters Exit Shows Like FBI?
Burnout and Contract Expirations
Let’s face it—procedural dramas are grueling. Actors often exit around Season 6-8 due to exhaustion or to pursue other creative projects.
Creative Reset
Producers sometimes reboot key elements to keep things from going stale. A major character exit is the fastest way to make a splash.
📣 Fan Reactions: Heartbreak and Speculation
Social media exploded after Episode 21. Reddit threads lit up with:
“If Jubal leaves, I don’t know if I’ll keep watching.”
“Feels like they’re preparing us to say goodbye. Not cool.”
“OA better be ready to step up, because the team’s about to lose its heartbeat.”
🎥 Could There Be a Spin-Off for Jubal?
Given his central role, there’s a chance we see Jubal pop up again—maybe in a crossover or a future spin-off set in another FBI office. The franchise has done it before (FBI: International, FBI: Most Wanted).
🔚 Conclusion: A Bitter-Sweet Transition in the Making?
FBI Season 7, Episode 21 did something rare: it gave us action and emotion in equal measure. While the show didn’t scream “Jubal’s leaving,” it whispered it loud enough for us to hear.
If this truly is the beginning of the end for Special Agent Jubal Valentine, he’s getting a thoughtful sendoff. One filled with reflection, closure, and legacy.
But with one episode left in the season, everything could change.
❓FAQs
1. Is Jubal really leaving FBI after Season 7?
Nothing is confirmed yet, but Episode 21 strongly suggests a potential exit. The signs are there: reflective dialogue, mentor moments, and emotional distance.
2. Has Jeremy Sisto commented on leaving the show?
Jeremy Sisto hasn’t officially said he’s leaving, but recent interviews hint at some level of closure or transition in his character’s arc.
3. Will a new character replace Jubal if he exits?
If Jubal leaves, the show could promote a current team member like OA or bring in someone new. It’s also possible Isobel takes on more field leadership.
4. Is FBI renewed for Season 8?
Yes, FBI has been renewed for another season, so even with a character exit, the series will continue.
5. Could this be a fake-out exit?
There’s always a chance. Procedurals love twists. However, the buildup over the season makes it feel genuine rather than a misdirection.
