Frustration for Fans as ‘CIA’ Spinoff Leaves Fate of ‘FBI: International’ and ‘FBI: Most Wanted’ Cast in Limbo

It was the TV franchise that seemed unstoppable. Dick Wolf’s FBI universe, spanning three hit series, has dominated US network schedules and captured a loyal fanbase on both sides of the Atlantic. But as CBS cancels “FBI: International” and “FBI: Most Wanted,” the fate of beloved characters—and their possible return in the new spinoff “CIA”—has left viewers in agonising suspense.

A Franchise in Flux

The FBI franchise, once boasting a trio of interconnected dramas, is undergoing its biggest shakeup yet. While the flagship “FBI” continues to anchor Tuesday nights, its globe-trotting sibling “FBI: International” and the high-octane “FBI: Most Wanted” have both been axed by CBS, leaving fans mourning the loss of favourite storylines and characters.

Yet the Wolf pack is far from finished. Enter “CIA,” a bold new spinoff set to debut later this year, fronted by British heartthrob Tom Ellis—best known for his devilishly charming turn in “Lucifer” and the steamy drama “Tell Me Lies.” The show promises a fresh twist on the procedural formula, but news about returning cast members has proven far less exciting.

No Decision on Crossovers—And Fans Aren’t Happy

According to a new update from TVLine, the fate of “FBI: International” and “FBI: Most Wanted” characters remains up in the air. Despite speculation and hope for a seamless crossover, sources say “CIA” is in a “bit of a holding pattern.” Apart from Ellis, no one has been cast, and there’s been “no decision made” on whether familiar faces will return.

For fans who invested years in the franchise, it’s a bitter pill. Social media is awash with disappointment. “We deserve closure for these characters, not just a new show!” tweeted one user. Another lamented, “All these crossovers and now nothing? It’s so frustrating!”

Why the Hold-Up?

Insiders suggest the delay is down to the network’s priorities. With “CIA” still months from premiere and no confirmed airdate, the focus is on getting the scripts just right. Only then will producers announce a co-lead for Ellis—and only after that will decisions about crossovers or returning actors be made.

A source close to production told Daily Mail: “The writers want to establish Hart Hoxton as a character first. They’re keen to avoid making the show feel like a rehash of what’s come before. There’s a real desire to stand on its own two feet.”

What We Know About ‘CIA’

Despite the uncertainty, details about the show’s premise have begun to emerge. Tom Ellis will play Hart Hoxton, described as a “fast-talking, rule-breaking loose cannon CIA case officer.” His foil? A veteran FBI agent who believes in the rule of law. The pair are assigned to the CIA’s New York Station, where their clashing styles become their greatest strength.

The “odd couple” dynamic is classic Dick Wolf, but with the added intrigue of international espionage and inter-agency rivalry. The series is being shepherded by Wolf himself and David Hudgins, former showrunner of “FBI: Most Wanted,” raising hopes of the same tightly-plotted drama and character-driven storytelling.

A Franchise Known for Crossovers

Part of what made the FBI shows such a hit was their interconnected universe. Characters regularly hopped between series, with storylines weaving through all three shows. Fans came to expect surprise appearances, emotional reunions, and the sense that, no matter where the action was set, it was all part of a larger world.

It’s no wonder, then, that the lack of clarity about crossovers has left viewers on edge. “It’s like they’re ignoring what made these shows special,” wrote one disappointed fan on Reddit. “We want to see these characters again—not just read about them in a press release.”

Will ‘CIA’ Deliver on Its Promise?

With only Tom Ellis confirmed, the pressure is on for producers to deliver a show that lives up to the franchise’s legacy. While some fans are excited about the new direction, others worry that “CIA” will struggle to recapture the magic without the familiar faces they’ve grown to love.

Industry insiders say the decision to delay casting announcements is strategic. “They want the show to succeed on its own terms,” said a TV critic. “But they also know that bringing back a beloved character, even for an episode or two, could give it a huge ratings boost.”

What’s Next for the FBI Universe?

For now, viewers are left in limbo. “FBI” remains on air, but the future of its extended universe is uncertain. Will “CIA” become the next big hit, or will it struggle to fill the shoes of its predecessors? And will we ever see the return of fan favourites like Scott Forrester or Remy Scott?

One thing is clear: the appetite for more stories from this world is as strong as ever. “I’ll give ‘CIA’ a chance,” said one fan. “But I need to know what happened to the others. They can’t just disappear.”

The Waiting Game

With “CIA” still deep in development, all eyes are on CBS and Dick Wolf Productions. Will they listen to the fans and bring back the characters they love? Or will the new series chart its own course, leaving the past behind?

For now, viewers will have to wait—and hope. As one commenter put it: “It’s not just about the cases. It’s about the people. Don’t forget that.”

Stay tuned for updates as the FBI universe enters its most unpredictable chapter yet.