Introduction: CBS Doubles Down on Its Crime Universe
The world of crime procedurals has always found a loyal home on network television, and CBS is proving once again that it’s the king of the genre. With ‘FBI: International’ joining the lineup, the network now boasts a full-fledged trilogy under its hit FBI franchise, created by the ever-successful Dick Wolf. But what makes this spinoff stand out? Why is it the talk of both social media and the primetime slot?
Let’s dive into how FBI: International became the third powerhouse entry in CBS’s growing empire, and why it’s more than just a typical crime drama.
What Is ‘FBI: International’?
A Global Expansion of the Crime-Fighting Universe
FBI: International debuted in 2021 as the third installment of the FBI franchise, following FBI (2018) and FBI: Most Wanted (2020). But unlike its predecessors, this series takes the action beyond U.S. borders.
The Fly Team’s Mission
Centered around the Fly Team, a group of elite FBI agents based in Budapest, the series focuses on protecting American interests abroad. Whether it’s hunting fugitives in Germany or rescuing kidnapped Americans in Italy, the stakes are international, and the drama is just as intense.
Who Created the FBI Franchise?
Dick Wolf: The Mastermind Behind It All
If the name Dick Wolf sounds familiar, it’s because he’s also the creator of the Law & Order and Chicago franchises. His knack for developing interconnected procedural dramas has become his trademark. With FBI: International, he takes that formula overseas, proving that crime—and the people who fight it—are a global story.
Why ‘FBI: International’ Feels Different
A European Setting with American Grit
Unlike traditional crime dramas set in New York or L.A., FBI: International uses real European cities as its backdrop. From cobblestone streets to ancient castles, the locations bring cinematic flair and a fresh vibe rarely seen in primetime network TV.
Language Barriers and Diplomatic Red Tape
The show doesn’t shy away from reality. It portrays the challenges of working in foreign countries, including cultural misunderstandings, local law enforcement tensions, and international bureaucracy. This adds layers to every case that U.S.-based series rarely explore.
How Does It Tie into the Larger FBI Franchise?
Crossover Events That Keep You Hooked
Like its sister series, FBI: International is part of a shared universe, allowing for exciting crossovers. Viewers have already seen Agent Jess LaCroix from ‘Most Wanted’ and Agent Jubal Valentine from the original ‘FBI’ cross paths with the Fly Team.
Unified Themes, Diverse Perspectives
Each series under the franchise umbrella shares a central theme—justice through investigative work—but each offers a unique lens. FBI: International contributes an international viewpoint, making the franchise more layered and inclusive.
Meet the Cast of ‘FBI: International’
Luke Kleintank as Special Agent Scott Forrester
The team leader, Forrester, is calm under pressure and often torn between diplomacy and duty. He’s the heart of the Fly Team.
Heida Reed as Special Agent Jamie Kellett
Kellett brings sharp instincts and an unwavering commitment to the team. She’s known for her grit and emotional depth.
Vinessa Vidotto as Special Agent Cameron Vo
A newer face with a tech-savvy edge, Vo often handles the digital side of the investigations.
Christiane Paul as Europol Agent Katrin Jaeger
As the team’s local liaison, Jaeger offers insight into local law enforcement dynamics, often acting as a cultural bridge.
Why CBS Took the Franchise Abroad
Tapping Into a Global Audience
By setting the series in Europe, CBS isn’t just expanding the story—it’s expanding its audience. The international backdrop appeals to viewers outside the U.S., making it a smart play in today’s global streaming era.
Fresh Locations, Timeless Storytelling
Even though the settings change, the structure remains tight and familiar—a case-of-the-week, emotional subplots, and a team that grows closer through adversity. It’s comfort television with a passport.
The Visual Appeal of the Series
Cinematography That Matches Streaming Giants
Each episode of FBI: International features lush European landscapes, giving it a visual quality that rivals streaming originals. From drone shots of Prague to tight action scenes in narrow alleys, the production value is impressively high for network TV.
Critical Reception and Fan Response
Mixed Reviews, Strong Ratings
While some critics were skeptical at first, calling it “predictable procedural fare,” the fan response has been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers appreciate the international twist and the chemistry between cast members.
The Importance of Tank the Dog
A Fan-Favorite Character
Let’s not ignore the show’s most adorable team member—Tank, the team’s loyal dog. He’s not just a gimmick. Tank plays a serious role in tracking and security, and fans love him for it. He’s even sparked his own share of fan accounts and memes online.
What Sets ‘FBI: International’ Apart from Other Crime Dramas?
Realism Without the Red, White, and Blue Filter
While most U.S. procedurals view the world through a distinctly American lens, FBI: International acknowledges nuance. It respects other cultures, laws, and systems—adding a sense of authenticity missing from many crime shows.
Behind the Scenes: How the Show Is Made
Shooting Abroad, Storyboarding at Home
Filming across Europe poses unique challenges. The crew must navigate language differences, foreign permits, and real-world locations. Yet this difficulty is also the show’s biggest strength—it feels real because it is.
Is There Room for More Spinoffs?
Franchise Potential Beyond Borders
Given the success of FBI: International, don’t be surprised if CBS considers even more global spinoffs. Could we see FBI: South America or FBI: Asia next? The formula works—and it travels well.
Streaming Success and International Viewership
From CBS to Paramount+ and Beyond
While it airs on CBS, FBI: International is also available on Paramount+, making it easy for viewers to catch up. Its global setting appeals to international streamers, strengthening its long-term viability.
Conclusion: The World Is Watching—And CBS Knows It
With FBI: International, CBS has cracked the code on how to keep a procedural format fresh. It’s the perfect mix of old-school TV storytelling and modern, global appeal. While other franchises struggle to stay relevant, the FBI universe is growing stronger, smarter, and more diverse—one border at a time.
Whether you’re tuning in for the drama, the team dynamic, or Tank the dog, one thing’s clear: FBI: International isn’t just another spinoff. It’s a blueprint for the future of crime TV.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to watch the other FBI shows before watching FBI: International?
Nope! FBI: International stands on its own, though watching the other series enhances your understanding of crossover events and characters.
2. Is the show based on real international FBI operations?
While inspired by real FBI missions, the show is fictionalized for entertainment. It reflects the kinds of scenarios the real Fly Team might encounter.
3. Where is ‘FBI: International’ filmed?
Mostly across various European countries, with Budapest, Hungary, serving as the base for many scenes.
4. Who created ‘FBI: International’?
The series was created by Derek Haas and Dick Wolf, the same duo behind other FBI shows and the Chicago franchise.
5. Will there be more seasons of ‘FBI: International’?
As of now, the series is renewed and continues to perform well. Expect more high-stakes international drama in upcoming seasons.
