Introduction: Can the FBI Franchise Survive Another Blow?
When it comes to CBS’s powerhouse FBI franchise, fans have always believed the brand was too strong to fail. With FBI, FBI: Most Wanted, and FBI: International forming a primetime trifecta, it seemed like nothing could slow down the franchise’s momentum. But a recent reveal has shaken that confidence. As someone who’s followed these shows closely, I was optimistic that both Most Wanted and International could weather the storm. Sadly, that optimism may have been misplaced.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what’s happening behind the scenes, why the reveal is so concerning, and what it might mean for the future of Dick Wolf’s FBI universe.
The FBI Franchise: A Quick Recap
Before we get into the new developments, let’s rewind a bit. The FBI franchise was born from the success of procedural dramas like Law & Order and Chicago PD. When FBI premiered in 2018, it instantly connected with viewers. Spinoffs followed—FBI: Most Wanted in 2020 and FBI: International in 2021—solidifying the franchise’s grip on primetime TV.
Each series had its own appeal:
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FBI focused on New York City’s field office.
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Most Wanted spotlighted a fugitive task force.
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International took fans overseas for high-stakes global cases.
But lately, cracks are starting to show.
Why I Believed FBI: Most Wanted & International Could Be Saved
From the start, I genuinely thought CBS would protect the spinoffs. After all, Dick Wolf’s franchises rarely collapse—just look at how Law & Order continues to thrive decades later.
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Ratings remained steady enough to justify renewals.
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Both spinoffs had growing fanbases.
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The interconnected universe made them valuable.
It seemed like the FBI world had all the ingredients for long-term success. But then came the reveal that changed everything.
The Reveal That Sparked Concern
The bombshell? Internal reports suggest CBS is reconsidering the costs and long-term viability of keeping three FBI shows running simultaneously. While the network hasn’t made official cancellations, the writing on the wall hints that something’s got to give.
This means Most Wanted or International—possibly both—could face budget cuts, reduced episode orders, or even the chopping block altogether.
Why This Reveal Feels Like a Death Sentence
Here’s the hard truth: in today’s streaming-first world, broadcast TV dramas face uphill battles. Even with loyal audiences, the costs of producing location-heavy shows like International or action-driven ones like Most Wanted are skyrocketing.
And CBS, like other networks, has become more ruthless about cutting shows that don’t deliver blockbuster returns. If the reveal is accurate, it signals CBS may not see the spinoffs as “must-keep” investments.
The Budget Battle Behind the FBI Franchise
Big productions mean big money. Let’s break it down:
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Cast salaries: As shows age, actors demand higher pay.
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Location costs: Filming overseas for International is expensive.
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Special effects and action scenes: Most Wanted thrives on intensity, which comes with a hefty price tag.
CBS has already been trimming costs across its lineup, and these spinoffs might be on the chopping block.
Comparisons to Other Wolf Franchises
If you look at Law & Order or the Chicago series, they’ve found ways to sustain multiple spinoffs. So why is the FBI universe struggling?
The difference lies in cost versus return. Chicago Fire and Chicago PD film domestically with relatively lower production expenses. International, on the other hand, bleeds cash because of its overseas setting.
How Fans Have Reacted
Fans aren’t taking the reveal lightly. Online forums and social media are buzzing with frustration:
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Some argue CBS is sabotaging its own franchise by spreading resources too thin.
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Others fear this will lead to abrupt cancellations without proper closure for beloved characters.
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Loyal viewers feel let down after investing years in these stories.
The passion is real—but will CBS listen?
Could FBI: Most Wanted Survive Alone?
If one show has a stronger chance of survival, it’s Most Wanted. Its domestic focus makes it easier to produce, and it’s developed a core group of fan-favorite characters. Still, with declining viewership trends across broadcast TV, even it isn’t immune to cuts.
The Problem with FBI: International
Of the two spinoffs, International is in the toughest spot. While its global backdrop sets it apart, the very thing that makes it unique also makes it unsustainable. If CBS is looking to cut costs, International is the most obvious target.
Why CBS Might Be Making a Mistake
Canceling—or even underfunding—the spinoffs could backfire. Why? Because the strength of the franchise lies in its interconnected universe. By weakening Most Wanted and International, CBS risks damaging the appeal of FBI itself.
Think of it like a three-legged stool: remove one leg, and the whole structure wobbles.
Streaming Competition Adds More Pressure
Another factor hurting the FBI shows is competition from streaming platforms. Viewers today want binge-worthy content that pushes boundaries. Procedural dramas, while comforting, sometimes feel dated compared to Netflix thrillers or HBO originals.
Without fresh storytelling or investment, FBI spinoffs risk fading into the background.
Can Crossovers Save the Franchise?
One possible lifeline is crossovers. Dick Wolf has long relied on crossover events to boost ratings across his universes. Bringing FBI, Most Wanted, and International together more often could remind audiences why the franchise matters.
But will CBS commit to that strategy—or cut corners instead?
The Future of the FBI Franchise: Best- and Worst-Case Scenarios
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Best case: CBS doubles down, invests smartly, and strengthens the FBI universe with creative crossovers and fresh storylines.
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Worst case: Budget cuts lead to reduced quality, frustrated fans, and eventual cancellations.
Right now, unfortunately, the new reveal leans toward the latter.
What Fans Can Do
If you love these shows, your voice matters. Networks pay attention to fan campaigns, social media buzz, and streaming numbers. Keep watching live, engage online, and make noise.
After all, it’s not the first time fan passion has saved a struggling series.
Conclusion: The Optimism Is Fading
I wanted to believe FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International would survive. But this new reveal makes it hard to stay hopeful. The reality is, CBS seems hesitant to keep investing heavily in both spinoffs.
Still, until official cancellations are announced, there’s a chance—however small—that fan support and creative adjustments could save the FBI universe. For now, though, my optimism has been replaced with a sobering dose of reality.
FAQs
1. Why is CBS reconsidering the FBI spinoffs?
Because of rising production costs, especially for International, and questions about long-term profitability.
2. Which FBI show is most at risk of cancellation?
FBI: International is in the toughest position due to its costly overseas filming.
3. Could fan campaigns save the shows?
Yes. Networks often consider fan support and streaming demand when making final decisions.
4. How do the FBI shows compare to the Law & Order franchise?
While both are successful, the FBI franchise is more expensive to produce and faces steeper competition from streaming platforms.
5. What’s the best way for fans to support the franchise?
Watch episodes live, stream them on official platforms, and actively promote the shows on social media to keep them trending.
