The news of Jeremy Sisto’s sudden passing in a tragic traffic accident has sent shockwaves through the television industry, but nowhere is the pain felt more acutely than within the tight-knit “FBI” family. Sisto, who portrayed the steady and brilliant Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAIC) Jubal Valentine since the show’s inception, was often described as the “heart and soul” of the New York field office both on and off-camera.
The reactions from his co-stars have been a mixture of profound disbelief and heartbreaking tributes, painting a picture of a man who was as dedicated to his craft as he was to his colleagues.
Missy Peregrym (Maggie Bell)
Missy Peregrym, who shared countless high-pressure scenes with Sisto, was among the first to break the silence. In a raw post on social media, she highlighted Sisto’s role as a mentor.
“I am completely devastated,” Peregrym wrote. “Jeremy wasn’t just a co-star; he was the person I leaned on during the long nights and the hardest scenes. He had this way of making everyone feel safe and seen. The set feels incredibly cold without his energy. My heart breaks for his wife and children.”
Zeeko Zaki (OA Zidan)
Zeeko Zaki, whose character OA often looked to Jubal for tactical guidance, shared a series of behind-the-scenes photos of the two laughing between takes. Zaki’s tribute focused on Sisto’s unique spirit.
“Jeremy taught me how to lead with kindness,” Zaki shared. “He was the most prepared, most professional, and yet the funniest person in the room. We lost a titan today. I’m still waiting for him to walk through the doors of the JOC and tell us it’s all a mistake.”
The Production Family: Dick Wolf and CBS
The loss has also deeply impacted the creative architects of the FBI brand. Dick Wolf, the legendary executive producer, released a formal statement acknowledging Sisto’s massive contribution to the franchise’s success.
-
Dick Wolf’s Statement: “Jeremy Sisto was a consummate professional and a brilliant actor. His portrayal of Jubal Valentine gave the show its pulse. More importantly, he was a kind man who will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of working with him.”
-
Production Halt: CBS and Wolf Entertainment officially paused production on FBI Season 8 to allow the cast and crew time to grieve. Sources from the set indicate that grief counselors have been brought in to support the staff.
Alana De La Garza (Isobel Castille)
As Jubal’s direct superior on the show, Alana De La Garza shared a particularly poignant message about their partnership.
“My partner, my friend,” she posted. “The rhythm of our scenes was my favorite part of the job. Jeremy had a brilliant mind and a giant heart. It’s impossible to imagine the JOC without his ‘Jubal-isms’ and his incredible presence.”
Impact on the “FBI” Universe
Jeremy Sisto’s death creates an enormous void in the FBI procedural world. Jubal Valentine was the connective tissue of the series—the man at the center of the Joint Operations Center (JOC) who coordinated every move.
Key areas of impact include:
-
Narrative Shift: Writers are now faced with the impossible task of writing out a character who was essential to the show’s mechanics.
-
Emotional Arc: The upcoming episodes will likely serve as an on-screen memorial, reflecting the real-life grief of the cast as they say goodbye to Jubal.
-
The Franchise: Sisto frequently crossed over into FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, meaning his loss will be felt across the entire Dick Wolf universe.
A Legacy of Kindness
Beyond the accolades, the consistent theme in every cast reaction is Sisto’s humanity. Whether it was checking in on crew members or staying late to help a guest star with their lines, Jeremy Sisto left a legacy of warmth that has clearly left his “FBI” family shattered.
As the fans join the cast in mourning, the focus remains on supporting his family and honoring the man who made “Jubal Valentine” an icon of modern procedural television.
