CBS Cancels “FBI: Most Wanted” and “FBI: International”

In a surprising move, CBS has canceled two of its popular “FBI” spinoffs, “FBI: Most Wanted” and “FBI: International.” This decision comes despite both shows delivering solid ratings and featuring high-profile stars like Dylan McDermott and Jesse Lee Soffer.

Why the Cancellations?

Several factors likely contributed to this decision:

• Making Room for “FBI: CIA”: CBS is developing a new spinoff, “FBI: CIA,” which would focus on the Central Intelligence Agency. Canceling two existing shows frees up space in the schedule and increases the likelihood of “FBI: CIA” getting a straight-to-series order.
• Financial Considerations: CBS has reportedly had difficult renewal negotiations with Universal Television, the studio behind the “FBI” franchise, suggesting that financial considerations played a role in the cancellations.
• Shelf Space: With numerous renewals of other shows, CBS needs to make room for new series on its schedule, including “Sheriff Country” and “Boston Blue.”

What’s Next?

• Shopping the Shows: Universal Television and Wolf Entertainment may try to shop “FBI: Most Wanted” and “FBI: International” to other platforms, similar to how “Law & Order: Organized Crime” moved from NBC to Peacock.
• Series Finales: If the shows are not picked up elsewhere, the current seasons will likely be adjusted to provide proper series finales.
• Cast Movements: It remains to be seen whether actors from the canceled shows, like Shantel VanSanten, will return to the mothership “FBI” series or move on to other projects.

A Changing Landscape:

These cancellations mark a shift in the television landscape, where even successful shows are not immune to the pressures of network scheduling and financial considerations. It also highlights the increasing importance of franchise building and the potential for spinoffs to revitalize established brands.

The Future of the “FBI” Franchise:

While the cancellations are disappointing for fans of “FBI: Most Wanted” and “FBI: International,” the future of the “FBI” franchise remains bright. The flagship “FBI” series continues to perform well, and the potential “FBI: CIA” spinoff promises to expand the universe in exciting new ways. Only time will tell how these changes will impact the franchise and its dedicated viewers.