CBS Shocks Fans: FBI’s Most Wanted and International Get Canceled!

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In an unexpected decision, CBS is axing two of Dick Wolf’s well-liked procedural series in an effort to free up space in their programming lineup and reduce expenses. The high-profile cancellations affect shows from the same universe, as CBS chooses to end production on two of its popular spinoffs.

By the specified date, CBS opted to terminate both spin-offs of FBI, namely, and . The longest-running one has completed six seasons, while International has graced their network for four. It’s puzzling as to why CBS chose to drop these two spin-offs given their decent performance in linear viewership. A possible explanation could be that the shows aren’t produced by CBS itself but instead come from Universal Television, which can complicate renewal discussions. In recent times, CBS has experienced tense negotiations with NBCUniversal, particularly regarding the FBI franchise. As a cost-saving measure, both and FBI: Most Wanted have reduced their main cast’s guarantees to secure renewal during that cycle. At present, there’s no information available on whether these spin-offs will be offered to other networks, with Peacock being one possible candidate if they decide to take it.

CBS Still Plans To Expand the FBI Universe

Although the network canceled two FBI spinoffs, FBI: CIA is looking promising for them. This spinoff is still being developed, and since Most Wanted and International were dropped, it seems that FBI: CIA has a good chance of being made. A preview episode of FBI: CIA is set to air during FBI, and several actors are in negotiations to join the series. The success of the new show will depend on its cast, and if CBS finds the right talent, they may give it a full season order directly.

The extensive roster of dramas on CBS may have contributed to the cancellation of shows like “Most Wanted” and “International.” With hit series such as “NCIS,” “NCIS: Origins,” “NCIS: Sydney,” “Tracker,” “Matlock,” “Elsbeth,” and “Fire Country” airing across different nights, along with “FBI” and “The Equalizer,” which is in negotiations for a sixth season, CBS has a packed schedule. Next year will bring the debut of “Sheriff Country,” a spinoff of “Fire Country,” and “Boston Blue,” an offshoot of “Blue Bloods” featuring Donnie Wahlberg. Furthermore, there are reports of a spinoff in the works for “The Equalizer” and the drama pilot “Einstein,” starring Matthew Gray Gubler, who was previously known for his role on CBS’ “Criminal Minds.” As shows age, they become increasingly expensive to produce, but CBS appears to be prioritizing newer dramas with a more affordable budget.

FBI: Most Wanted served as the first spinoff of the FBI franchise and focuses on the work of the FBI’s New York Fugitive Task Force, who are tasked with tracking down some of the most dangerous people on the FBI’s Most Wanted list. The series stars Dylan McDermott, Edwin Hodge, Shantel VanSanten, Keisha Castle-Hughes and Roxy Sternberg. FBI: International follows a team of FBI special agents who take their jobs in foreign territory by investigating crime and terrorism on an international level. The series stars Jesse Lee Soffer, Eva-Jane Willis, Christina Wolfe, Vinessa Vidotto and Carter Redwood.

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2025-03-05 02:59