The FBI franchise is no stranger to character crossovers and shifting partnerships. With FBI: Most Wanted officially ending, the door is open for familiar faces to find a new home in the flagship series. One of the most compelling possibilities? Nina Chase (Shantel VanSanten) stepping in as Stuart Scola’s (John Boyd) new partner.
A Natural Transition for Nina
Introduced in FBI before transitioning to Most Wanted, Nina has always been a strong, adaptable agent who fits seamlessly into high-pressure environments. Her background in undercover work, combined with her straightforward approach, makes her a character fans already know and respect. Now that Most Wanted has wrapped, CBS has a ready-made opportunity to bring her back into the main office.
Filling the Partner Gap for Scola
Scola has endured plenty of change over the years, from losing his former partner Kristen Chazal (Ebonee Noel) to navigating shifting team dynamics. While he remains a steady and reliable agent, the absence of a consistent partner leaves a narrative gap. Nina’s return could provide balance—professionally and emotionally. Their existing rapport already sets the stage for chemistry that feels authentic, not forced.
Stronger Storytelling Through Connection
What makes this potential partnership more intriguing is the personal connection between Nina and Scola. The two share a child together, and their relationship—while complicated—offers rich storytelling opportunities. By pairing them professionally, FBI could explore how personal and professional lives intersect in ways that deepen both characters. It would also bring a refreshing layer of realism, as many workplaces deal with blurred boundaries between home and the job.
Franchise Consistency
The FBI universe has thrived on its ability to weave characters in and out across different series. Nina returning to the flagship after Most Wanted mirrors how other Dick Wolf shows, like Law & Order and Chicago, have successfully moved characters around to keep stories fresh while rewarding long-time fans.
Fan Appeal and Future Potential
Viewers have consistently responded positively to Nina’s character, praising her resilience and her dynamic with Scola. Her reintroduction would not only satisfy fans but also strengthen the ensemble, especially at a time when cast shifts are inevitable in a long-running procedural.
With Most Wanted ending, bringing Nina back to FBI as Scola’s new partner feels like both a natural and exciting move. It would give Scola the steady teammate he needs, deepen the show’s emotional stakes, and keep the franchise interconnected in a way fans love.
