Big changes are on the horizon for CBS’s FBI franchise this fall, and they come with both surprising cancellations and a brand-new addition. After years of success with a trio of interconnected shows, CBS is shaking things up—ending two existing series while launching a fresh chapter in the franchise.
For a while, it looked like the FBI universe was on an unstoppable streak. With FBI, FBI: International, and FBI: Most Wanted delivering solid ratings and dominating Tuesday nights, fans assumed the momentum would continue. When CBS confirmed development of a fourth installment—CIA—many took it as a sign of even more growth.
But in a move that stunned viewers, CBS has canceled both FBI: International (after four seasons) and FBI: Most Wanted (after five seasons). While some speculated that one of the two might be at risk to make room for CIA, few expected both to be cut from the lineup in one swift decision.
A New Era Begins: FBI and CIA Take Monday Nights
Despite the double cancellation, CBS isn’t abandoning the franchise entirely. In fact, it’s launching CIA, a new espionage-driven spinoff starring Tom Ellis, and pairing it with the flagship FBI series on an entirely new night.
For the first time since its debut, FBI will move from its Tuesday night stronghold to Monday nights this fall. The restructured primetime lineup will look like this:
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8/7c: The Neighborhood (final season)
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8:30/7:30c: DMV (new comedy)
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9/8c: FBI
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10/9c: CIA
It’s a bold scheduling shift that reflects CBS’s new strategy. With just two FBI shows remaining, there’s no longer a need to dedicate an entire night to the franchise.
Tuesdays Become NCIS Territory
With the FBI block moving to Mondays, CBS is taking advantage of the open Tuesday slot by building out its other powerhouse franchise. For the first time ever, fans will get a full three-hour NCIS programming block on Tuesdays, featuring:
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NCIS (flagship series)
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NCIS: Origins (prequel series)
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NCIS: Sydney (international spinoff)
This lineup swap means FBI fans will get their show one night earlier, while NCIS loyalists reclaim the Tuesday night slot that made the original series famous.
Looking Ahead
Although the cancellations of FBI: International and FBI: Most Wanted mark the end of an era, the franchise isn’t done evolving. With the introduction of CIA, CBS is betting that espionage-focused drama will add a fresh flavor to the brand while retaining the high-stakes tension fans love.
There’s still some uncertainty around how viewers will respond to the changes—especially the shift in scheduling and the reduction of franchise content from three shows to two. But if CBS’s track record is anything to go by, both FBI and CIA are well-positioned to carry the torch forward.
One thing’s for sure: Monday nights are about to get intense.
