CBS just made a big change to the planned FBI: CIA spinoff which can change the plans for the series!
FBI fans are still reeling from the shocking decision by CBS to cancel both FBI: International and FBI: Most Wanted. While there had been worries on one of those shows ending, both canceled at once was unexpected.
The plan to continue the FBI franchise
This would make the mothership FBI show the only outing for the franchise. However, CBS had already announced plans for a spinoff, tentatively titled FBI: CIA. It would showcase a joint task force between the two agencies (needed as legally the CIA can't operate on U.S. soil).
The plan had been for a late spring episode of FBI Season 7 to introduce the main characters as a backdoor pilot. This is just like how the first season of FBI set up FBI: Most Wanted. The ep would introduce the main characters, described as "a dedicated, strait-laced FBI agent and a street-smart CIA agent."
However, Deadline now reports that the backdoor pilot won't happen. Instead, CBS is eyeing a direct-to-series order for the spinoff (which may change its title). Per the article, a key issue was the producers ran into delays casting the trio of leads who were to be introduced in that episode.
This means that rather than having an intro episode, this new spinoff will just jump directly to series which could be a benefit!
How FBI: CIA can benefit going right to series
This isn't the first time FBI has jumped to series as FBI: International was introduced in 2021 as part of a crossover with the other two shows. While a backdoor pilot could be a way to ease fans into a new show, it may be better just to have it set up on its own.
A key reason is that this show will have a much different direction than the main FBI series. It's teaming with the CIA which would require different investigations and a different feel for it. Thus, having these characters pop up in the main FBI episode could be distracting.
Backdoor pilots can be good, but there's also a history of them being too raw on the characters, and quite often, some can be shifted when the regular series premieres. Going right to series would help the characters be established better and gel with the audiences, much like how FBI: International set up Kellett and Forrester as just partners before revealing they were lovers.
The hints that the title may be changed is another factor (frankly FBI: CIA is a pretty bad title) which means a bit of distance from the mothership series. In which case, having it premiere on its own away from the main FBI could help it find its own footing.
As of now, CBS hasn't confirmed the new spinoff's order yet, although with the other two FBI shows gone, it stands a chance of coming. As of now, FBI fans won't be seeing this CIA connection anytime soon.
FBI Season 7 airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on CBS.