Building a brand new TV series is a massive undertaking, and sometimes, even the most anticipated projects hit a few bumps along the road. That certainly seems to be the case with CBS's upcoming drama, CIA, a new entry into the expansive Dick Wolf TV universe. While excitement builds for its midseason 2026 premiere, the show has already navigated some significant shake-ups, from showrunner swaps to key departures among its cast and executive producers.
TL;DR
- CBS's new CIA series, starring Tom Ellis and Nick Gehlfuss, has experienced several pre-premiere changes, including a showrunner switch and two notable departures.
- Actress Michael Michele exited her lead role as the head of the CIA's New York Station, with a potential recast on the horizon.
- Executive producer and director Eriq La Salle also departed, but not before directing the series' pilot episode, as he shifts focus to his writing career.
A Turbulent Start for the Highly Anticipated CIA Series
Imagine setting up a major intelligence operation, only to find your key personnel shuffling around before the first mission even gets off the ground. That's a bit like the journey of CBS's CIA series so far. This new drama, set to explore the clandestine world of the Central Intelligence Agency operating on U.S. soil, has garnered significant buzz, especially with fan-favorite actors Tom Ellis (of Lucifer fame) and Nick Gehlfuss (a veteran of Chicago Med) leading the charge.
However, before its expected midseason 2026 debut, the show has already seen a few notable changes behind the scenes and in front of the camera. These shifts began even before cameras started rolling in September 2025, hinting at the complex nature of bringing a new procedural to life within an established universe.
A Showrunner Change and a Delayed Premiere Date
One of the earliest indicators of a shifting landscape for CIA came in July. David Hudgins, known for his work on FBI: Most Wanted, was initially slated to be the showrunner, bringing his vision for a "different kind of storytelling" to the FBI universe. However, he eventually departed the project.
Taking the reins was Warren Leight, an experienced hand from the Law & Order: SVU team. This showrunner change was a significant shake-up and ultimately led to the series being pushed from its original fall 2025 premiere slot to a midseason 2026 launch instead. While a delay might sound concerning, bringing in a seasoned veteran like Leight could provide the steady leadership needed for a project of this scale.
Key Talent Exits from the CIA Team
More recently, the show faced two high-profile departures that caught the attention of fans and industry watchers. Michael Michele, an accomplished actress recognized for her roles in ER and other Wolf Entertainment productions, was initially cast as a series regular. She was set to play the critical role of the head of the CIA's New York Station, overseeing the operations of Ellis and Gehlfuss's characters.
However, in early November 2025, news broke that Michele had exited the series, just weeks after filming began. The reasons for her departure remain undisclosed, and it's currently unclear whether her character will be recast or if her absence will necessitate script changes. Source: [Deadline, "CIA": Michael Michele Exits CBS' "FBI" Offshoot, November 3, 2025].
An ER Alum Departs for Literary Pursuits
Close on the heels of Michele's exit, another familiar name from ER, Eriq La Salle, also departed the CIA production. La Salle was initially attached as a director and executive producer, a natural fit given his extensive directing credits across numerous Wolf Entertainment shows, including Chicago P.D. and Law & Order titles. Source: [CinemaBlend, Nick Gehlfuss Talks Joining CIA After Chicago Med, November 3, 2025].
While his departure as an executive producer was confirmed in November 2025, La Salle did successfully direct the series premiere as planned. His exit appears to be a deliberate career pivot rather than a production issue; he recently signed a two-book deal with Penguin Random House for his thriller series, Martyr Maker, with Book 4 slated for release in September 2026. Source: [Deadline, Eriq La Salle Exits CBS' 'CIA' As Executive Producer, November 3, 2025]. This highlights how creative professionals often juggle multiple passions, sometimes leading to tough choices about their commitments.
The Show Must Go On: Filming Continues in the Big Apple
Despite these significant changes, production on CIA is reportedly moving forward without major halts. Filming began in September 2025 in New York City, and the cast and crew are pushing ahead towards their midseason premiere goal.
One of the show's stars, Nick Gehlfuss, is particularly thrilled about the ongoing production. Having previously spent over 200 episodes in the Windy City for Chicago Med, he's now embracing the electric atmosphere of New York City. Gehlfuss expressed immense gratitude and excitement about working with Wolf Entertainment again in a new setting, stating:
"I am on cloud nine. It is the best. This production company, Wolf Entertainment, no one does it better than them, what they do. And I am in a new city now, in New York City... It is one of my favorite cities. I'm just so thankful, and it makes complete sense in a lot of ways. And I'm looking to go to the distance with this new show, like we did with Med."
— Nick Gehlfuss, as quoted by CinemaBlend (November 3, 2025)This enthusiasm from the lead cast member suggests that internal morale remains high, and the creative team is focused on delivering a strong product. Filming on location, whether in Chicago or New York, is a hallmark of Dick Wolf productions, lending a crucial sense of authenticity to their procedural dramas. Gehlfuss emphasized that "shooting in New York City on the streets is just electric," contributing to the show's "authenticity."
A Clash of Styles and a Compelling Dynamic
So, what exactly can viewers expect from CIA beyond its behind-the-scenes drama? The official logline paints a vivid picture of its central dynamic. The series will follow two "unlikely partners": Tom Ellis's character, Hart Hoxton, is a "fast-talking, rule-breaking loose cannon CIA case officer," while Nick Gehlfuss's Bill Goodman is a "by-the-book, seasoned and smart FBI agent who believes in the rule of law." Source: [Us Weekly, CBS' 'FBI' Spinoff 'CIA' Undergoes Changes, November 3, 2025].
These two opposites are assigned to work together out of the CIA's New York Station, where they must learn to reconcile their differences to investigate threats on U.S. soil. As Gehlfuss noted, his new character is "very different than Will Halstead," his previous role, who was "nothing by the book." This provides a clear character contrast designed to be a major driving force of the show. Source: [CinemaBlend, Nick Gehlfuss Talks Joining CIA After Chicago Med, November 3, 2025].
Navigating the Wolf Entertainment Universe and Crossover Potential
CIA is explicitly set within the existing FBI universe, which previously expanded with FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International, both of which concluded in 2025. This positioning offers both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it taps into a loyal fanbase familiar with Dick Wolf's brand of procedurals. On the other, it needs to carve out its own distinct identity.
Tom Ellis weighed in on this, noting that while they are building on the "kind world" the FBI shows have established, CIA will tell its story "through the eyes of the CIA." He hinted at potential crossovers but stressed that the show will focus on how the CIA operates on homeland soil and the importance of inter-agency cooperation. This focus on "different bureaus share information with each other" for the "greater good" offers a unique angle within the franchise. Source: [Us Weekly, CBS' 'FBI' Spinoff 'CIA' Undergoes Changes, November 3, 2025].
Counterpoints to Concerns About Production Snags
While multiple departures and a showrunner change might initially raise concerns about a rocky production, it's important to consider some counterpoints. First, the reports consistently state that filming has not been "impacted" by the recent exits. This suggests that the production team has contingencies in place and is maintaining its schedule.
Second, Eriq La Salle's departure was openly attributed to a desire to focus on his burgeoning writing career. This wasn't a mysterious "creative differences" situation, but a personal career choice. Similarly, the showrunner change, while pushing the premiere, brought in Warren Leight, a highly respected and experienced showrunner who knows the procedural genre inside and out. These factors suggest a production that, despite changes, is handling them proactively.
Example: How Fans Might Perceive the Changes
Consider a fan like Sarah, who eagerly awaits new Dick Wolf shows. When she first heard about Michael Michele leaving, her immediate thought might have been, "Oh no, is the show in trouble?" But then, seeing reports that production continues smoothly and hearing about Eriq La Salle's book deal, she might shift her perspective. She'd understand that not every change signifies chaos; sometimes, it's just the natural evolution of a complex project with talented individuals pursuing diverse opportunities. Her initial concern transforms into curiosity about who might step into the recast role, rather than fear for the show's viability.
Practical Takeaways for What Comes Next
- Anticipate Character Dynamics: Get ready for the classic "odd couple" pairing of Tom Ellis's loose-cannon CIA officer and Nick Gehlfuss's by-the-book FBI agent. Their contrasting styles are set to be a key draw.
- Stay Tuned for Recasting News: The role of the head of the CIA's New York Station, previously held by Michael Michele, will likely be recast. Keep an eye out for updates on who might fill those shoes.
- Expect Authentic NYC Action: Filming in New York City is a major element, promising an authentic, electric backdrop for the investigative cases.
- Midseason 2026 Premiere on CBS: Mark your calendars! Despite the earlier showrunner change pushing its debut, CIA is still on track for a midseason 2026 premiere on CBS.
- Part of a Larger Universe: While it will establish its own identity, remember CIA is part of the broader FBI universe, so don't rule out subtle nods or even future crossover potential with other Wolf Entertainment shows.
Sources
- CinemaBlend, "Nick Gehlfuss Talks Joining CIA After Chicago Med," November 3, 2025.
- Deadline, "CIA": Michael Michele Exits CBS' "FBI" Offshoot," November 3, 2025.
- Deadline, "Eriq La Salle Exits CBS' 'CIA' As Executive Producer," November 3, 2025.
- Us Weekly, "CBS' 'FBI' Spinoff 'CIA' Undergoes Changes," November 3, 2025.
- Collider, "CIA EP Eriq La Salle Departs CBS's Tom Ellis-Starring "FBI" Series," November 3, 2025.