📺 Introduction: The Franchise That Refuses to Slow Down
When CBS greenlit FBI: International, it wasn’t just another network decision—it was a strategic move that reaffirmed Dick Wolf’s iron grip on crime procedural television. Known for birthing television dynasties like Law & Order and Chicago P.D., Wolf now extends his FBI universe to a global scale.
But what exactly does FBI: International bring to the table? And why is this expansion so important for both CBS and the future of crime dramas?
Let’s break it all down.
The Rise of the Dick Wolf Empire
From ‘Law & Order’ to Global Domination
Dick Wolf isn’t just a producer—he’s a brand. Starting with Law & Order in 1990, Wolf laid the groundwork for a franchise-driven model that thrives on spin-offs and shared universes. FBI, his CBS venture, debuted in 2018 and quickly became a ratings powerhouse.
Why Audiences Love Wolf’s Shows
Wolf’s formula is simple but wildly effective:
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Tight plots
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Fast pacing
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Relatable heroes
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High-stakes cases
Throw in a moral gray area or two, and you’ve got television gold.
Why ‘FBI: International’ Was a Smart Move
Expanding the Franchise Beyond Borders
CBS didn’t just renew FBI and FBI: Most Wanted—they went all in with FBI: International. The idea? Take the same heart-pounding action and transplant it across Europe and beyond. It’s a smart way to keep content fresh without alienating fans of the original series.
A Built-In Global Audience
With international crimes and cross-border tension at the heart of the series, FBI: International taps into global issues that resonate worldwide. That means bigger markets, bigger stories, and yes—bigger ratings.
What Makes ‘FBI: International’ Unique?
No Guns on Foreign Soil
One unique twist? The team can’t carry firearms in many of the countries they operate in. That ups the tension and forces them to use strategy, brains, and diplomacy over brute force.
International Cast and Diverse Characters
The series features an eclectic team from various cultural backgrounds. This not only reflects real-world intelligence operations but also makes the cast more relatable to an international audience.
The International Fly Team – Meet the Core Cast
Special Agent Scott Forrester
Played by Luke Kleintank, Forrester is the team leader. He’s tough, focused, and driven by a strict moral compass. But like any good lead, he has layers—ones that are slowly peeled back with each mission.
Special Agent Jamie Kellett
Heida Reed plays Kellett, Forrester’s second-in-command. She’s sharp, fluent in multiple languages, and fiercely loyal. She’s the kind of character that commands respect without saying much.
Tank the Schutzhund
Yes, there’s even a dog—Tank, a trained K9 who brings both heart and bite to the team.
Storylines Rooted in Real-World Issues
Cross-Border Terrorism
FBI: International isn’t just about car chases and shootouts. The show digs into real, modern threats like global terrorism, espionage, and trafficking.
Political Intrigue and Cultural Tension
Operating on foreign soil brings diplomatic red tape. It’s not just the bad guys you have to worry about—it’s how your actions are viewed by foreign governments.
Behind the Scenes – How the Series Came to Life
A Collaboration Between CBS and Wolf Entertainment
The greenlight for FBI: International came as CBS renewed the rest of the FBI franchise. The series was co-created by Derek Haas, who also helped drive the success of Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D.
Filming in Exotic Locations
This isn’t your average studio-bound cop show. Episodes are filmed across Europe—from Budapest to Paris—adding authenticity and visual intrigue.
The Ratings Tell the Real Story
Viewers Tuned In, and CBS Took Notice
From its premiere, FBI: International held strong ratings and helped boost CBS’s overall Tuesday night programming block. It consistently pulls in millions of viewers and competes well in the key 18–49 demo.
Streaming Numbers and International Appeal
With platforms like Paramount+ extending the show’s reach, international streaming numbers are strong—proof that this show isn’t just for American audiences.
Why The Timing Was Perfect
The Rise of Global Procedurals
Today’s viewers crave variety. They want international locations, multi-layered conflicts, and fresh storytelling. FBI: International launched at a time when streaming made global stories more accessible than ever.
Competing with Other Franchises
While NCIS and Law & Order hold strong, FBI is fast becoming CBS’s centerpiece. The addition of International was a clear move to stay competitive with other global franchises like Jack Ryan and Lupin.
What This Means for the Future of the Franchise
More Crossovers on the Horizon
The shared universe means more potential for crossovers. Characters from FBI, Most Wanted, and International have already started appearing in each other’s storylines.
The Next Logical Step – More Spin-Offs?
Don’t be surprised if FBI: Cybercrime or FBI: Deep Cover becomes a thing. CBS and Wolf Entertainment know how to ride momentum—and they’ve got plenty to work with.
Fan Reactions and Critical Acclaim
Social Media Buzz
Fans are loving the international twist. Twitter threads, TikTok fan edits, and Reddit theories are all over the place. Viewers love the mix of action, intelligence, and cultural challenges.
Critics Praise the Fresh Direction
Reviewers praised FBI: International for its high production value, gripping storylines, and bold shift from domestic to global narratives.
The Global Crime Trend in TV Shows
Audiences Want International Intrigue
Crime isn’t confined to one country—and audiences want TV that reflects that. The success of Money Heist, Bodyguard, and Fauda proves the demand for global storytelling.
‘FBI: International’ Fits the Mold Perfectly
It balances the procedural formula we love with international stakes and exotic landscapes.
How ‘FBI: International’ Reinforces CBS’s Strategy
Franchise Building Is the Future
In an era where original content is risky, franchise-building is safe and profitable. CBS is doubling down on what works, and FBI: International is now part of that ecosystem.
The Power of Consistency
Dick Wolf shows follow a familiar formula, but fans return for the characters and how they evolve. That’s a strategy that FBI: International executes flawlessly.
Where to Watch ‘FBI: International’
CBS Broadcast
Catch new episodes Tuesdays at 9 PM ET/PT on CBS.
Streaming Options
Episodes are available on Paramount+ the next day. You can also stream on Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, and Amazon Prime (with a subscription).
🎯 Conclusion: A Global Hit in the Making
FBI: International isn’t just a spin-off—it’s a bold leap into a broader world. CBS made the right call expanding the FBI universe, and Dick Wolf once again proves he knows how to deliver what audiences crave. With edge-of-your-seat plots, international tension, and dynamic characters, this series is poised to dominate both airwaves and streaming charts for years to come.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Is ‘FBI: International’ connected to the other FBI shows?
Yes! It shares the same universe and occasionally features crossover episodes with FBI and FBI: Most Wanted.
Q2: Where is ‘FBI: International’ filmed?
The show is primarily filmed in Budapest, Hungary, with additional scenes shot in various European cities.
Q3: Do the characters from other FBI series appear in ‘International’?
Yes, there have been several crossover episodes where characters from the main FBI series make appearances.
Q4: Is Dick Wolf directly involved in ‘FBI: International’?
Absolutely. He serves as an executive producer and was instrumental in conceptualizing the global spin-off.
Q5: How many seasons of ‘FBI: International’ are there so far?
As of now, CBS has ordered multiple seasons, with the show successfully renewed alongside its sister series.
