The FBI franchise is set to grow once again with a new spinoff, FBI: CIA, currently in development at CBS. Since its debut in 2018, the Dick Wolf-created series has captivated audiences with its gripping procedural drama, exploring high-stakes cases involving terrorism, organized crime, and counterintelligence. Its success has led to the creation of two spinoffs: FBI: Most Wanted, which follows the Fugitive Task Force, and FBI: International, which takes the action overseas with a specialized team handling cases involving Americans abroad.

According to TVLine, a new FBI spinoff show titled FBI: CIA will soon the ranks. The series will feature a collaboration between a dedicated FBI agent and a street-smart CIA agent, working as part of a covert task force to combat domestic terrorism in New York City. A backdoor pilot for the show is set to air this spring as an episode of the flagship FBI series. If picked up, the show will premiere during the 2025-26 TV season.

What Another FBI Spinoff Means

The FBI Franchise Adds CIA Twist

Another FBI spinoff represents an evolution for the franchise, merging the procedural drama of the FBI with the clandestine world of the CIA. This will also be the first time that the Dick Wolf universe has centered around a CIA agent. The dynamic pairing promises to bring unique storytelling opportunities as the complexities and occasional tensions between the two agencies arise, much like CBS' NCIS: Sydney. While the FBI series has traditionally focused on domestic crime, the spinoff can explore the matter of covert operations on foreign soil.

The success of the latest CIA-centered shows, like Paramount’s Special Ops: Lioness and Netflix’s The Recruit, have demonstrated a rising demand for cinematic espionage. FBI: CIA is poised to build on this momentum, leveraging the creative expertise of writer Nicole Perlman (Captain Marvel) and former CIA officer David Chasteen (Jack Ryan) to bring a grounded yet thrilling portrayal of counterterrorism efforts. The task force's New York City office ensures continuity between the FBI series, and the potential for more FBI crossovers, while introducing a unique storyline.

Our Take On FBI: CIA

A Thrilling Leap Into The World Of Espionage

The prospect of FBI: CIA is an exciting addition to the franchise, merging two distinct intelligence agencies with the same procedural storytelling that fans love. The pairing of an FBI and CIA agent will bring exciting tension and unprecedented collaboration to the spinoff. As its New York setting ties the series to its established universe, and with seasoned creators working behind the scenes, the show promises a grounded yet thrilling portrayal of counterterrorism. If the backdoor pilot resonates, FBI: CIA could redefine the franchise and further solidify CBS’s reputation as a leader in compelling procedural dramas.

Source: TVLine