The FBI universe is expanding once again — and this time, it’s going global in a whole new way. CBS has officially ordered development on a brand-new spinoff from franchise creator Dick Wolf, and the twist has fans buzzing:
👉 The CIA is joining the FBI world for the first time ever.
This fresh, high-stakes concept promises to push the franchise into uncharted territory, blending the tightly wound procedural storytelling of FBI with the international covert operations of U.S. intelligence agencies.
Below is everything we know so far about the groundbreaking series.
A Franchise Game-Changer: The FBI–CIA Crossover Universe Begins
Until now, the FBI franchise has focused on domestic operations — counterterrorism, organized crime, federal fugitives, and international cases handled through legal channels. With the CIA entering the picture, the tone of the entire universe is about to shift.
The new spinoff will explore:
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Covert missions outside U.S. borders
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Shadow alliances between agencies
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Rogue intelligence threats
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High-level political intrigue
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Global stakes unlike anything in the current franchise
CBS insiders describe the new series as “the boldest expansion of the FBI brand since FBI: International”, promising a blend of geopolitical suspense and character-driven drama.
Working Title: FBI: Covert
(Title not final, but circulating heavily behind the scenes)
Industry sources report that the working title for the project is FBI: Covert, reflecting its CIA-driven narrative identity. The series is expected to focus on a joint FBI–CIA strike unit tasked with handling intelligence threats that fall between the cracks of domestic and international jurisdictions.
Possible Team Structure Includes:
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A CIA field operative with a complicated past
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An FBI legal attaché working from U.S. embassies
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A cyber-intel analyst traveling with the task force
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A foreign liaison officer whose loyalty is… uncertain
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A mission chief balancing political pressure and moral compromise
It’s the kind of ensemble Dick Wolf excels at building — tight, layered, and full of emotionally charged storytelling potential.
Why CBS Is Betting Big on This Spinoff
CBS has already found massive success with the FBI brand, which consistently delivers some of the network’s highest Tuesday-night ratings. With the flagship series receiving unprecedented multi-season renewals, the franchise has clearly become a long-term anchor.
CBS wants more because:
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International thrillers attract younger audiences
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CIA-led plots can introduce higher action and bigger budgets
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The FBI brand name guarantees instant recognition
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The series can film abroad, offering visual appeal similar to FBI: International
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It opens the door for crossovers of unprecedented scale
Executives believe this series could be the most ambitious procedural in the franchise’s history.
Is Dick Wolf Creating His Own “Spy Universe”?
With Law & Order ruling the courtroom, One Chicago dominating first-responders, and FBI commanding federal investigations, Dick Wolf has already built three separate super-franchises.
But the addition of CIA storylines suggests a fourth evolution:
👉 A Wolf-style spy universe.
This expansion could allow:
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CIA-driven backdoor pilots
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Characters crossing from FBI: International into covert missions
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Multi-night crossover events involving espionage, diplomacy, and manhunts
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The introduction of recurring villains operating across borders
Fans have long hoped for a Wolf-produced spy thriller — this may finally be it.
Potential Storylines Teased by Early Reports
Although the series is still in early development, a few broad arcs have been hinted at by production insiders:
1. A Global Threat That Begins on U.S. Soil
An attack or intelligence breach forces the FBI and CIA to cooperate — unwillingly at first — forming the new task force.
2. A Mole Inside U.S. Intelligence
A traitor threads through the story, creating long-term intrigue.
3. High-Risk Field Missions Abroad
Unlike the main FBI shows, this one may consistently film overseas.
4. Blurred Lines Between Law and Morality
The show is expected to explore the ethical gray zones of CIA operations — something not seen in typical procedurals.
5. Personal Secrets Among the Team
CIA agents often live double lives; the writers plan to use that dramatically.
Casting: Who Might Lead the New Series?
CBS has not announced the cast, but early chatter points to a female CIA lead, paired with an FBI agent from a major U.S. city (possibly New York, tying into the flagship show).
Producers are reportedly eyeing actors with:
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Strong action backgrounds
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Ability to handle emotionally intricate roles
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Potential to anchor multi-season arcs
There’s also a chance of familiar faces appearing in the pilot — including agents from FBI, Most Wanted, or International.
When Will the Series Premiere?
The timeline depends on script approval and casting, but CBS is aiming for:
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Pilot filmed in late 2025
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Series launch in the 2026–27 broadcast season
If production moves quickly, however, the network could push for a midseason debut in early 2026.
Either way, CBS appears committed to fast-tracking the project.
Fans React: “FBI Meets CIA? I’m All In!”
Early viewer reactions online have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans excited for:
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More international action
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Deeper mythology
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Bigger villains
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A darker, more complex tone
Many commented that the franchise has long needed a series that brings espionage into the Wolf universe — and this is exactly that leap.
Final Thoughts: A Bold New Era for the FBI Franchise
Dick Wolf has always excelled at expanding his universes strategically, not recklessly. The decision to bring in the CIA marks a major strategic shift — one that could redefine what the FBI franchise looks like for the next decade.
