The "CIA" Spinoff: Behind-the-Scenes Shake-Ups Before Its Big Premiere

CBS's anticipated "FBI" offshoot, "CIA," is navigating a turbulent path to its midseason 2026 debut, marked by multiple showrunner changes and significant cast and executive producer exits.

TL;DR: Quick Takes on the "CIA" Drama

• CBS's new "FBI" spinoff, "CIA," has experienced a surprising amount of behind-the-scenes turmoil, including two showrunner changes and the departure of a lead actress and an executive producer.
• Production recently paused to accommodate the latest showrunner transition, though the series is still expected to premiere as planned in midseason 2026.
• Despite the challenges, stars Tom Ellis and Nick Gehlfuss remain enthusiastic about the project, which aims to bring a new angle to the popular Dick Wolf universe.

Imagine building a dream team for a brand-new TV show, meticulously casting your leads and shaping the creative vision, only to see key players — not one, not two, but three major figures — step away before the cameras have barely started rolling. That's pretty much the dramatic backstory unfolding for CBS's highly anticipated "FBI" spinoff, simply titled "CIA." This show, which promises to expand the ever-popular Dick Wolf universe, is facing a whirlwind of behind-the-scenes changes, leaving fans wondering what this means for its eventual arrival on screen.

Unveiling the "CIA" Series: What We Know So Far

First announced with a straight-to-series order in April 2025, "CIA" is set to introduce viewers to a dynamic duo: a "fast-talking, rule-breaking loose cannon CIA case officer" played by Tom Ellis (yes, Lucifer himself!) and a "by-the-book, seasoned and smart FBI agent" portrayed by "Chicago Med" alum Nick Gehlfuss. The official synopsis teases an "odd couple" scenario. They're assigned to work out of the CIA's New York Station, where they'll have to learn to collaborate on cases and criminals threatening U.S. soil, discovering that their differences might just be their greatest strength.

The series is also slated to star Natalee Linez as Gina Rojas, a trusted CIA analyst. Originally eyeing a Fall 2025 premiere, the show was pushed back to midseason 2026, a move that now seems almost prophetic given the subsequent changes.

A Whirlwind of Showrunner Changes and Creative Shifts

The first major shake-up came over the summer with the departure of the original showrunner, David Hudgins, known for his work on "FBI: Most Wanted." For those unfamiliar, a showrunner is essentially the head honcho of a TV series – they're responsible for the overall creative vision, writing, production, and day-to-day operations. It's a massive role, and a change in leadership can significantly impact a show's direction.

Hudgins was replaced in July 2025 by Warren Leight, a veteran of the "Law & Order: SVU" universe. Leight's extensive experience seemed like a steady hand for the new series. However, the calm wouldn't last long, as more news broke just as production had begun in September.

Key Departures: Cast and Executive Producer Step Away

In early November 2025, "CIA" faced a double whammy of exits. Michael Michele, cast as the head of the CIA's New York Station and set to be one of the series' leads, unexpectedly left the show. While rumors of a recast are swirling, nothing has been confirmed, leaving a significant role vacant. (Source: Deadline, "Fbi Spinoff CIA Loses Showrunner In Latest Exit, Pauses Production," November 6, 2025).

Hot on Michele's heels was the departure of executive producer Eriq La Salle. Known for his acting work on "ER" and his extensive directing credits across the Wolf Entertainment universe, La Salle had also directed the pilot episode as planned before his exit. Sources indicate his departure was voluntary, as he's shifting his focus to writing the next installment of his "Martyr Maker" book series. (Source: ScreenRant, "CIA Spinoff: Eriq La Salle Departs Amid Cast Change," November 4, 2025).

Showrunner #2 Exits, Production Pauses, and a Familiar Face Steps In

Just days after the cast and EP exits, the show experienced yet another leadership change. Warren Leight, who had taken over as showrunner in July, also stepped down from his role on November 6, 2025. This latest development caused production on "CIA" to briefly pause to accommodate the transition. (Source: Variety, "'FBI' Spinoff 'CIA' Showrunner Warren Leight Exits, Production Paused (EXCLUSIVE)," November 6, 2025).

The good news? Mike Weiss, the current showrunner for the flagship "FBI" series, is reportedly in talks to take the reins for "CIA." If this happens, he'll be juggling both shows, a testament to his expertise within the Wolf Entertainment machine. Despite the brief halt, CBS still expects "CIA" to make its midseason 2026 premiere.

The Implications: Navigating Creative Consistency and Stability

So, what do all these changes mean for "CIA"? On one hand, having multiple showrunners can make maintaining a consistent creative vision a real challenge. Each leader brings their unique style and interpretation, which could lead to shifts in tone or character development if not carefully managed. Losing key cast and crew members also means new talent will need to be brought in, potentially delaying elements of production or requiring script adjustments.

However, it's not all doom and gloom. The Dick Wolf universe is a well-oiled machine, known for its ability to churn out compelling crime dramas consistently. Bringing in someone like Mike Weiss, who already understands the "FBI" world intimately, could provide much-needed stability. Wolf Entertainment has a deep bench of talented writers, directors, and producers, suggesting they can adapt quickly to these kinds of changes without derailing the entire project.

Think of it like a new restaurant preparing to open. You hire a star chef, then they leave. You bring in another, then the head manager quits. Then the new star chef also steps down, and you're left scrambling for a new culinary leader while the opening date looms. It's a messy situation, but if the restaurant group has a solid reputation and other skilled chefs ready to step in, the grand opening might still be a success, albeit with a few more frantic phone calls behind the scenes.

The Stars' Perspective: High Hopes for the New York Set Series

Despite the revolving door behind the camera, the show's stars remain optimistic. Nick Gehlfuss, who played Dr. Will Halstead for over 200 episodes on "Chicago Med," expressed immense gratitude and excitement about returning to the Wolf Entertainment fold and filming in New York City.

"I am on cloud nine. It is the best. This production company, Wolf Entertainment, no one does it better than them, what they do... 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."

"That's the authenticity of it, and you don't have to fake anything. Shooting in New York City on the streets is just electric. This new group of people is fantastic as well, so a lot of potential here."

— Nick Gehlfuss to CinemaBlend (Source: CinemaBlend, "With CBS' FBI Boss Possibly Taking Over CIA, Here's What He Told Us About Working With 'Absolute Ninjas' On The Network TV Schedule", November 6, 2025)

Gehlfuss also shared that his new character will be "a by-the-book FBI agent, which is very different than Will Halstead," suggesting a fresh challenge for the actor. Tom Ellis, for his part, emphasized how "CIA" will integrate with the existing "FBI" universe.

"We’re going to take what the FBI guys have set up in that kind world," Ellis told Us Weekly in May 2025. "We’re going to then visit it through the eyes of the CIA... We might get a little bit of crossover with FBI from time to time, but ultimately, this is going to be about how the CIA goes about its business on homeland soil and why it’s important that these very different bureaus share information with each other and how for the greater good." (Source: Us Weekly, "FBI Spinoff CIA Has Paused Production Amid Possible Recasting and Several Exits," November 6, 2025).

The Road Ahead: Recasting and Premiere Anticipation

With Michael Michele's role as the station chief now vacant, casting is reportedly underway for a new actor. This is a crucial role, and finding the right fit will be essential for the show's dynamic. While production was briefly paused for the showrunner transition, the series is still on track for its midseason 2026 debut on CBS.

These behind-the-scenes adjustments, while dramatic, often happen in the fast-paced world of television production. The key is how the production team, led by Dick Wolf, adapts and continues to deliver a high-quality product. Fans of the "FBI" universe have come to expect gripping storylines and strong character dynamics, and "CIA" will have to live up to that standard.

Practical Takeaways for Anticipating "CIA"

• Stay Tuned for Casting Updates: Keep an eye out for news regarding who will fill the crucial role of the CIA's New York Station Chief. This casting choice will be a significant piece of the puzzle.
• Expect Dick Wolf's Signature Style: Despite the changes, the series is still part of the established Wolf Entertainment universe, so anticipate familiar elements like procedural storylines, a focus on current threats, and dynamic partner relationships.
• Midseason 2026 Premiere is Still the Plan: While production paused, the network is holding firm on the premiere window. Delays aren't expected yet, but things can always change in Hollywood.
• Prepare for Cross-Universe Potential: Tom Ellis hinted at possible crossovers with the main "FBI" series, so keep an eye open for those connections once "CIA" hits the airwaves.

Frequently Asked Questions About "CIA"

When is "CIA" expected to premiere? "CIA" is currently expected to premiere in midseason 2026 on CBS.

Who are the main stars of "CIA"? The series is set to star Tom Ellis as a CIA case officer and Nick Gehlfuss as an FBI agent.

What is the premise of "CIA"? The show follows an unlikely pair—a rule-breaking CIA officer and a by-the-book FBI agent—who must learn to work together at the CIA's New York Station to investigate threats on U.S. soil.

Will "CIA" connect to other "FBI" shows? Yes, "CIA" is an "FBI" spinoff and part of the same Dick Wolf universe. Star Tom Ellis has indicated potential crossovers with the main "FBI" series.

Sources:

• TV Line, "Tom Ellis' FBI Spinoff CIA Loses Showrunner In Latest Exit, Pauses Production," November 6, 2025.
• Deadline, "EXCLUSIVE: Michael Michele Exits CBS' 'FBI' Offshoot 'CIA'," November 1, 2025.
• Variety, "'FBI' Spinoff 'CIA' Showrunner Warren Leight Exits, Production Paused (EXCLUSIVE)," Emily Longeretta, November 6, 2025.
• CinemaBlend, "With CBS' FBI Boss Possibly Taking Over CIA, Here's What He Told Us About Working With 'Absolute Ninjas' On The Network TV Schedule," Laura Hurley, November 6, 2025.
• Us Weekly, "FBI Spinoff CIA Has Paused Production Amid Possible Recasting and Several Exits," November 6, 2025.
• ScreenRant, "CIA Spinoff: Eriq La Salle Departs Amid Cast Change," Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, November 4, 2025.
• Hello!, "FBI spin-off CIA hit with back to back shake-ups and exits – details," Beatriz Colon, November 6, 2025.
• Collider, "FBI's 'CIA' Spinoff Loses Executive Producer Amid Cast Exit," November 6, 2025.