CBS has announced the cancellation of two popular spinoff series from the FBI franchise—FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International—after their current seasons conclude. This decision represents a significant shift in the network’s programming strategy, as it continues to prioritize the flagship FBI series, which has recently been renewed for three additional seasons, extending its run to Season 9 for the 2026–27 broadcast year. In contrast, the spinoffs will only receive one more season, with FBI: Most Wanted concluding after its sixth season and FBI: International after its fourth.
The choice to end these spinoffs comes as CBS reassesses its programming lineup. Reports indicate that the cancellations were confirmed following the renewal of the flagship FBI series, which secures its future through the 2026–27 season. The spinoffs, which were initially intended to expand the storytelling possibilities within the FBI universe, have not been granted the same long-term commitment.
Both spinoffs were launched to enhance the narrative scope of the FBI franchise. FBI: Most Wanted debuted in January 2020, focusing on the high-stakes operations of the New York Fugitive Task Force, while FBI: International premiered in September 2021, following the international Fly Team based in Budapest. Despite their unique settings and storylines, both series aimed to provide viewers with insights into specialized FBI units, showcasing different aspects of law enforcement beyond the domestic focus of the original series.
The cancellation of these shows has raised questions among fans and industry insiders. With the flagship FBI series still performing well, many are curious about CBS’s reasoning for discontinuing these successful spinoffs, especially given their strong ratings in their respective time slots.
FBI: Most Wanted quickly established itself as a key program within the franchise, centering on the operations of the New York Fugitive Task Force. The series combined procedural storytelling with an ensemble cast, which added depth to its narrative. Over its six-season run, it not only entertained but also contributed to the broader FBI narrative, offering an alternative perspective on law enforcement challenges.
Similarly, FBI: International aimed to broaden the franchise’s narrative by taking its action beyond U.S. borders. Set in Budapest, it followed the FBI’s international Fly Team as they worked to protect American interests abroad. The series secured a strong position in its 9 p.m. ET Tuesday time slot, often ranking among the top-rated programs.
Despite their popularity, CBS has opted not to extend the spinoffs beyond their current seasons. This decision reflects a broader strategy within the network, which has shown a willingness to invest in long-running, successful series, as evidenced by the renewal of the flagship FBI series. The spinoffs, while well-received, did not receive the same level of long-term commitment.
The cancellations have sparked discussions among fans and industry experts. CBS’s decision to cancel these spinoffs while renewing a record number of other shows indicates a reconfiguration of its lineup. The network is also developing new spinoffs for the upcoming season, suggesting a focus on fresh concepts while phasing out properties that may no longer align with its strategic vision.
Despite the end of these two spinoffs, the FBI franchise is not over. CBS is reportedly considering a new installment—FBI: CIA—which is expected to feature a backdoor pilot in the upcoming season of FBI. This indicates that CBS remains committed to expanding the narrative universe of the franchise, albeit in a more selective manner.
In conclusion, the cancellation of FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International marks a pivotal moment for the FBI franchise at CBS. While these spinoffs have provided engaging entertainment, the network’s focus on the flagship series and potential new projects suggests that the franchise will continue to evolve. Fans may be disappointed by the loss of these series, but they can look forward to new directions and storytelling opportunities within the FBI brand.