A Crossover Fans Didn’t Know They Needed
The world of television procedurals thrives on crossovers, and when done right, they can feel like major events rather than gimmicks. That’s why fans of FBI are buzzing after Jeremy Sisto—who plays the sharp, fast-talking Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jubal Valentine—opened up about the possibility of a crossover with CBS’s upcoming spinoff, CIA, starring Tom Ellis.
While nothing has been officially confirmed, Sisto’s recent comments have sparked excitement and speculation, hinting that the FBI universe may be preparing for its most ambitious crossover yet.
Jeremy Sisto Addresses the Crossover Buzz
Jeremy Sisto has never been shy about engaging with fans or discussing the future of the FBI franchise. When asked about a potential crossover with CIA, Sisto didn’t dismiss the idea. Instead, he acknowledged that the concept is very much in line with how the franchise has been evolving.
According to Sisto, the expansion of the FBI universe naturally opens the door to deeper inter-agency storytelling. With CIA reportedly focusing on international intelligence, covert operations, and high-level threats, a crossover wouldn’t just make sense—it could significantly raise the stakes for both shows.
His tone suggested intrigue rather than certainty, but fans quickly picked up on the fact that he seemed genuinely excited by the idea.
Why FBI and CIA Are a Natural Fit
From a narrative standpoint, a crossover between FBI and CIA feels almost inevitable. FBI has built its reputation on domestic threats, character-driven investigations, and moral dilemmas within U.S. borders. CIA, on the other hand, is expected to explore global espionage, intelligence warfare, and shadowy international conflicts.
Bringing these two worlds together would allow the franchise to tell stories that start at home and explode onto the global stage. A case that begins as a domestic threat could quickly spiral into something far larger, forcing Jubal Valentine and his team to work alongside CIA operatives with very different rules—and priorities.
Jeremy Sisto hinted that this contrast alone could create compelling drama.
The Tom Ellis Factor
The idea of Tom Ellis joining the FBI universe has only intensified fan interest. Known for his charisma, sharp wit, and commanding screen presence, Ellis brings a very different energy compared to the grounded realism of FBI.
Sisto acknowledged that dynamic, noting that Ellis’s potential role could challenge FBI characters in unexpected ways. A CIA operative isn’t bound by the same transparency or legal constraints as an FBI agent, and that moral gray area is something FBI has increasingly leaned into over recent seasons.
Seeing Jubal Valentine—a character who thrives on control, strategy, and verbal sparring—go head-to-head with a CIA counterpart could be television gold.
Jubal Valentine at the Center of the Storm
If a crossover does happen, many fans believe Jubal Valentine would be the natural focal point. As the emotional and strategic hub of FBI, Jubal often finds himself balancing politics, pressure, and personal demons while keeping his team together.
Sisto suggested that a crossover would test Jubal in new ways. Dealing with CIA operations could force him to confront uncomfortable truths about how much information is shared—or withheld—in the name of national security.
That tension aligns perfectly with FBI’s ongoing themes of trust, authority, and the human cost of high-stakes decisions.
What a Crossover Could Look Like
While details remain speculative, fans are already imagining what form a crossover might take. One possibility is a multi-episode arc spanning both shows, where a single threat unfolds from different perspectives. Another option is a high-impact special event episode, similar to previous franchise crossovers, designed to draw viewers into CIA while rewarding longtime FBI fans.
Jeremy Sisto emphasized that if a crossover were to happen, it would need to feel organic—not forced. The story would have to justify why these agencies come together, rather than relying solely on star power.
That reassurance has resonated with fans who value FBI’s grounded storytelling.
Fan Reactions: Excitement Meets High Expectations
Unsurprisingly, fan reaction has been swift and passionate. Many viewers have praised the idea of expanding the FBI universe beyond U.S. borders, while others are eager to see how Tom Ellis’s character would clash—or align—with established favorites.
At the same time, there’s a clear expectation that any crossover must respect the tone of FBI. Fans don’t want spectacle without substance, and Sisto’s thoughtful comments suggest the creative team is well aware of that balance.
The Bigger Picture for the FBI Franchise
Jeremy Sisto’s openness about a potential crossover reflects a larger shift within CBS’s procedural strategy. Rather than treating shows as isolated entities, the network appears increasingly interested in building interconnected worlds that can sustain long-term storytelling.
A successful FBI–CIA crossover could pave the way for future collaborations, making the franchise more dynamic and adaptable in a crowded television landscape.
Final Thoughts: A Door Left Intentionally Open
While Jeremy Sisto stopped short of confirming anything concrete, his comments made one thing clear: the idea of an FBI and CIA crossover is very much on the table. With Tom Ellis bringing star power to the new spinoff and FBI continuing to dominate its time slot, the potential feels both exciting and plausible.
For now, fans are left watching closely—because in television, sometimes the most telling clues come not from announcements, but from what actors are willing to imagine out loud.
