🚨 CBS Makes Major Move: ‘FBI’, ‘FBI: Most Wanted’ Renewed, and New Spin-off ‘FBI: International’ Ordered
CBS has officially doubled down on its FBI franchise, and fans couldn’t be more thrilled. The network renewed FBI and FBI: Most Wanted, and in a bold move, it ordered a third installment: FBI: International. The crime-fighting saga is about to go global—and it’s not slowing down.
Let’s break down everything we know about this triple-threat update.
📺 The Power of the ‘FBI’ Franchise on CBS
CBS struck gold when it launched FBI back in 2018. Created by Dick Wolf, the mastermind behind the Law & Order and Chicago franchises, FBI quickly became one of the most-watched procedural dramas on television.
Since then, it has evolved into a powerful multi-show universe. FBI: Most Wanted, a spin-off that focuses on the Fugitive Task Force, debuted in 2020 and has consistently pulled in strong ratings. The latest addition—FBI: International—promises a fresh, global twist.
🌎 What Is ‘FBI: International’?
FBI: International will follow elite agents operating overseas, tackling global threats that impact American interests abroad. Think high-stakes missions, international diplomacy, and crime that crosses borders.
This spin-off marks a bold pivot from the New York-centered stories of the original and Most Wanted. It’s a chance to explore stories that deal with terrorism, cybercrime, trafficking, and international espionage—all under the FBI banner.
🧠 Why the Spin-Off Makes Sense for CBS
With the massive success of international crime thrillers like NCIS: Los Angeles, Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, and Jack Ryan, the move to create FBI: International feels both timely and strategic.
Global storytelling = global audience. CBS is no doubt betting on a wider demographic and broader syndication.
💥 Dick Wolf’s Expanding TV Universe
Let’s be real—Dick Wolf doesn’t miss.
The man behind some of television’s longest-running franchises is building what feels like a procedural empire. His FBI universe now mirrors the scale of his Chicago and Law & Order dynasties, and FBI: International is the natural next chapter.
Wolf will executive produce the new spin-off alongside long-time collaborators, making sure the storytelling and tone stay sharp.
🎯 Ratings Speak Louder Than Words
CBS isn’t just renewing these shows out of loyalty—they’re business powerhouses.
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FBI regularly dominates its Tuesday night slot.
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FBI: Most Wanted has shown impressive growth and retention.
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The crossover events between the series often see huge spikes in viewership.
So yeah, the network is capitalizing on a winning formula.
🚨 What Will ‘FBI: International’ Look Like?
Expect something very different from your usual city-based crime procedural. The show will be shot in various international locations and feature a rotating cast of local actors alongside American leads.
CBS insiders hint at episodes that dive into global terrorism plots, digital warfare, and international kidnapping cases.
This is FBI meets Mission: Impossible, with a procedural edge.
🕵️ Who’s Behind the Badge in the New Spin-off?
Casting for FBI: International is underway, but CBS is reportedly looking for charismatic leads with real dramatic gravitas. Rumors suggest we may even see familiar faces from FBI or Most Wanted drop in from time to time.
Crossover potential? Absolutely.
🔄 Expect Major Crossover Events
If you’re a fan of franchise crossovers (think Chicago Fire x Chicago P.D. x Chicago Med), you’re going to love what CBS has in store.
CBS plans to intertwine storylines between all three shows, giving viewers a reason to watch every episode across the franchise.
These mega-events = social media gold and ratings boosts.
📍 Why This Move Is a Game-Changer
CBS isn’t just creating more content—it’s creating more sticky content. With three series in one universe, fans will feel more invested, and the storytelling will benefit from layered narratives that span continents.
That’s the kind of commitment that turns casual viewers into loyal fans.
💬 What Fans Are Saying Online
Twitter, Reddit, and fan forums have lit up with the news. Here are some common reactions:
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“YESSSSS to ‘FBI: International’—I’ve been waiting for this!!!”
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“More crime-fighting, more drama, more everything. Count me in.”
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“I hope they film in real cities and bring authentic vibes. No fake European sets!”
There’s real excitement—and CBS knows it.
📅 When Will ‘FBI: International’ Premiere?
The show is expected to launch during the fall season, likely premiering alongside the new seasons of FBI and FBI: Most Wanted. Production will begin later this year, and fans can expect teasers soon.
Mark your calendar—this fall is going to be packed.
🎬 Where Will It Be Filmed?
Sources close to the network suggest that production for FBI: International may take place in Budapest, Prague, or other European cities known for their cinematic landscapes and tax incentives.
That’s a win for both budget and visual impact.
🧩 How Will the New Series Connect With Existing Shows?
Expect tight continuity. Characters will likely reference events from the other shows, and we may even get storylines that bounce from one series to the next.
It’s all part of Dick Wolf’s signature storytelling style: interwoven plots, complex characters, and no fluff.
💡 Final Thoughts: CBS Is Going All-In—and It’s Working
CBS’s decision to greenlight FBI: International while renewing its flagship and spin-off shows proves one thing: this franchise isn’t slowing down. In fact, it’s just getting warmed up.
By expanding the scope beyond U.S. borders, CBS is evolving the FBI brand into a global television powerhouse. Fans can expect gripping storytelling, edge-of-your-seat action, and a deeper dive into crime fighting in an interconnected world.
✅ Conclusion
CBS has officially turned its FBI franchise into a global juggernaut. With FBI and FBI: Most Wanted returning and FBI: International on the way, crime drama fans have a lot to look forward to.
Whether you’re hooked on thrilling investigations, high-stakes manhunts, or international espionage, the FBI universe just became your new favorite obsession.
❓ FAQs
1. Is ‘FBI: International’ a spin-off or a reboot?
It’s a spin-off, not a reboot. It expands the existing FBI universe by taking the action overseas.
2. Will the shows air on the same night?
CBS may air the three shows on the same night for a franchise block, but scheduling hasn’t been confirmed yet.
3. Will there be crossovers between all three shows?
Yes! CBS plans to use crossover episodes to link storylines and boost viewership.
4. Do I need to watch the original FBI series to enjoy ‘FBI: International’?
Not necessarily. Each show is designed to stand alone, but watching all three adds more context and depth.
5. When will casting for ‘FBI: International’ be announced?
Casting is underway now, and CBS is expected to reveal the main lineup closer to the premiere date.
