CBS’ upcoming FBI spinoff, CIA, has officially recast a key character—bringing in a familiar face from the NCIS universe. The change comes amid a series of behind-the-scenes challenges that have slowed down the show’s path to its anticipated winter premiere.
Originally, CBS planned to debut CIA this past fall, expanding the FBI franchise after slimming the lineup to just the flagship series for the 2025–2026 season. Despite strong ratings, the network chose to end FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, shifting focus toward launching the new series.
After securing Tom Ellis in the lead role, producers faced difficulties filling out the rest of the cast. They eventually set Nick Gehlfuss as FBI Special Agent Bill Goodman and added Natalee Linez and Michael Michele to the ensemble. But Michele’s exit created another hurdle—one CBS has now resolved.
According to Deadline, Necar Zadegan has been tapped to take over as the show’s Chief of Station. Fans will recognize Zadegan from her roles as Agent Hannah Khoury on NCIS: New Orleans and Dalia Hassan on 24 season 8. She also appeared on Broadway in the Pulitzer Prize–nominated Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo.
The casting change isn’t the only shake-up. CIA has also lost major creative figures behind the scenes. Warren Leight, who stepped in as showrunner earlier this year, has departed the project, as has executive producer and director Eriq La Salle. FBI showrunner Mike Weiss will now take over leadership of the spinoff.
Production on CIA has reportedly been paused for two weeks, though CBS has not provided a restart date. With Zadegan officially onboard and Weiss stepping in, the series is expected to move forward soon. It remains unclear whether Zadegan will directly replace Michele’s character or portray a new leader assuming the Chief of Station role.
Despite the setbacks, network insiders remain confident the series will still meet its scheduled winter premiere. Filming began in September, giving the show enough material—likely including a completed pilot—to remain on track. Meanwhile, FBI season 9 has already teased the existence of the CIA within its storytelling universe, laying the groundwork for potential crossovers that could strengthen the new spinoff’s launch.
