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New Tom Ellis-Led Series CIA Ordered by CBS Amidst FBI Spinoff Departures

CBS is set to welcome a new series into its programming lineup while bidding farewell to two of its current FBI spinoffs by the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season. The network has announced a straight-to-series order for CIA, a spinoff that stars Tom Ellis, known for his role in other popular series.

The new series, which was previously titled FBI: CIA, is now simply named CIA. Initially, it was designed as a planted spinoff set to introduce characters through FBI this current season; however, that plan has evolved. Such a format is reminiscent of how characters from the successful spinoff Most Wanted were launched via a backdoor pilot. CIA is now slated to join the CBS schedule for the 2025-2026 season.

CIA will follow the dynamic between two contrasting protagonists: a charismatic and unpredictable CIA case officer portrayed by Ellis, and a disciplined, experienced FBI agent grounded in law enforcement protocol. Tasked with collaborating at the CIA’s New York Station, this duo must navigate complex cases involving threats to national security, learning that their stark differences might become their greatest asset in solving these challenges.

In early discussions about the series during its development phase, FBI actor Zeeko Zaki expressed optimism about the expansion of the FBI universe. “Hopefully we get to keep growing the family and the world, and I’m excited to see how they do that,” Zaki shared in March.

The show will feature notable talents in its executive production team, including Dick Wolf, David Hudgins, Nicole Perlman, David Chasteen, and Peter Jankowski, with Hudgins serving as the showrunner. CIA is produced by Universal Television, part of Universal Studio Group, in association with Wolf Entertainment and CBS Studios.

This announcement comes during a transitional phase for the FBI franchise, which will conclude International and Most Wanted after four and six seasons, respectively, with their final episodes airing on May 20.

The introduction of CIA will bolster the CBS lineup for the upcoming 2025-2026 season, which will also see spinoffs from Fire Country titled Sheriff Country and from Blue Bloods named Boston Blue.

As anticipation builds for CIA, fans are curious about Tom Ellis’ casting and what new developments this series will bring. What are your thoughts on this casting choice? What elements are you hoping to see in the new series? Share your insights in the comments below.

Source
www.tvinsider.com