Inside the FBI Set: Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki Reveal the Grueling Days, Harsh Conditions, and Bonds That Keep the Hit Show Alive
Television crime dramas often look sleek and effortless on-screen, but the reality behind the camera is far from glamorous. On the set of CBS’s hit series FBI, cast members like Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki endure grueling 14-hour workdays, freezing night shoots, and endless takes that push them to their limits. Yet, it’s this very grind that forges unbreakable bonds among the cast and crew, making FBI one of the most authentic and compelling shows on television.
In this in-depth article, we’ll dive into the behind-the-scenes realities of filming FBI, the sacrifices the stars make, and how the powerful camaraderie keeps the show thriving season after season.
The Harsh Reality of Filming FBI
When viewers tune in to watch FBI, they see polished episodes full of tense action, dramatic storylines, and seamless performances. What they don’t see is the backbreaking work that goes into making it happen.
The cast regularly faces 14-hour workdays, with shoots starting before sunrise and wrapping late at night. Scenes often require multiple takes from different angles, meaning a two-minute moment on screen might take half a day to film. Add in New York’s unpredictable weather, and you get a recipe for exhaustion.
Missy Peregrym on the Physical and Emotional Toll
Missy Peregrym, who plays Special Agent Maggie Bell, has been open about the toll the show takes. Action sequences demand not only physical endurance but also emotional stamina. Running through crowded city streets, handling stunt work, and conveying the heavy emotional themes of crime cases can leave her drained by the end of the day.
She once noted that the most challenging part isn’t the stunts or long hours—it’s finding the energy to stay authentic in every scene, even when fatigue sets in.
Zeeko Zaki: Leading With Endurance
Zeeko Zaki, who portrays Special Agent Omar Adom “OA” Zidan, faces similar struggles. His role often places him front and center in intense action scenes, requiring top physical conditioning. Zaki trains outside of filming to keep up with the physical demands of the role, comparing the work to an athlete preparing for a championship season.
For him, the hardest part isn’t the workload—it’s balancing the pressure of perfection with the exhaustion of long hours. Still, he credits the strong bond with his co-stars and crew for making it worthwhile.
Endless Takes: The Hidden Grind
TV shows like FBI rely on precision. Directors demand perfect execution, which means actors often repeat the same scene dozens of times until it feels just right.
Imagine running full speed in dress shoes, tackling a suspect, or delivering lines flawlessly under pouring rain—then doing it again and again until the director gives the all-clear. That’s the daily grind the cast faces.
Weather Challenges: New York at Its Toughest
Since FBI is filmed on location in New York City, the weather plays a starring role in production challenges. Freezing winter nights and sweltering summer afternoons become backdrops for the drama, leaving the cast battling the elements while staying in character.
Missy Peregrym has recalled filming in below-freezing temperatures with nothing but a blazer for warmth, while Zeeko Zaki remembers sweating through scenes during humid heatwaves.
The Mental Game of Crime Drama
Beyond physical fatigue, crime dramas come with a mental burden. The subject matter—murders, terrorism, and human trafficking—can weigh heavily on the cast. Missy Peregrym has admitted that some storylines stick with her long after filming, forcing her to find ways to decompress once the cameras stop rolling.
The Power of Camaraderie on Set
Despite the hardships, the cast often says that their bonds keep them going. Long hours together have transformed the cast and crew into something like a second family. Zeeko Zaki describes the team’s connection as “real friendship forged under pressure,” while Missy Peregrym credits the support network for helping her juggle the demands of the job with her personal life.
How the Crew Keeps the Machine Running
While actors get the spotlight, the crew works just as tirelessly. From camera operators standing in harsh conditions to makeup artists resetting looks between takes, the unsung heroes of FBI put in the same grueling hours to ensure the show maintains its high standards.
Why the Grind Matters: Authenticity on Screen
What keeps everyone pushing forward is a shared commitment to authenticity. The producers want FBI to feel as real as possible, which means no shortcuts. Whether it’s filming in crowded New York streets, coordinating explosions, or choreographing fight sequences, the hard work translates into episodes that feel urgent, raw, and compelling.
Balancing Personal Life With Demands of Filming
Missy Peregrym, a mother of two, has been candid about the challenge of balancing work with family life. Long shoots often mean missing bedtime routines or school events. Similarly, Zeeko Zaki has spoken about the sacrifices of personal time for the sake of the show’s demanding schedule.
It’s this balance—or sometimes lack thereof—that highlights the very real sacrifices made to bring FBI to life.
Comparing FBI’s Set Life to Other Crime Dramas
While long hours are standard in television, FBI’s reliance on real locations in New York makes it particularly taxing compared to other shows filmed in controlled studio environments. The constant movement, city logistics, and environmental unpredictability add a unique layer of difficulty.
What Keeps the Cast Coming Back?
With all the exhaustion and sacrifice, why do stars like Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki keep coming back season after season? The answer lies in passion. Both actors describe the role as deeply rewarding—not only because of the show’s success but also because of the impactful stories they get to tell.
Fans: The Motivation That Powers Through the Hard Days
Both Peregrym and Zaki often credit fans for keeping their spirits high. Knowing that millions of viewers tune in every week and connect emotionally with the stories makes the hardships on set feel worthwhile.
The Legacy of Hard Work
At the end of the day, the grueling process behind FBI is what makes the series stand out. Every episode is the product of sacrifice, endurance, and teamwork. While the stars may endure sleepless nights and harsh conditions, they do it for the sake of creating television that feels gripping and real.
Conclusion
The world of FBI may look polished and thrilling on-screen, but the reality is one of long hours, physical challenges, and mental strain. Yet, Missy Peregrym, Zeeko Zaki, and their colleagues push through because of the bonds they’ve formed and the passion they share for storytelling. It’s a grind, yes—but one that has forged a powerhouse drama beloved by millions.
FAQs
1. How long are typical filming days for FBI?
Most days run between 12 to 14 hours, though some can stretch even longer depending on location and weather conditions.
2. Where is FBI filmed?
The series is primarily filmed on location in New York City, which adds both realism and logistical challenges.
3. Do the actors perform their own stunts?
While stunt doubles handle the most dangerous sequences, actors like Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki often perform a large portion of their own physical work.
4. How do the cast members cope with the emotional storylines?
Many rely on downtime, family support, and light-hearted moments on set to decompress from the heavy subject matter.
5. What makes FBI different from other crime dramas?
Its authenticity—filmed in real New York settings with relentless attention to detail—sets it apart, along with the genuine camaraderie among the cast.
