cia tv show

CIA: The Latest Addition to Dick Wolf’s Crime Drama Universe Debuts February 23, 2026

CBS is set to expand its already sprawling crime drama franchise with the highly anticipated premiere of CIA, a new spinoff from Dick Wolf and David Hudgins. Premiering Monday, February 23, 2026, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on CBS, the series marks another chapter in the network’s long-running FBI universe—this time shifting focus from federal law enforcement to clandestine intelligence operations right here on American soil.

Unlike traditional police procedurals or international espionage thrillers, CIA centers on a unique partnership between two reluctant agents from different branches of U.S. intelligence: an FBI field agent and a seasoned CIA case officer. Together, they form a secret task force dedicated to preventing domestic terrorism threats within New York City—a timely and increasingly relevant mission given global security concerns in the post-pandemic era.

What Makes CIA Different?

While many shows in the FBI franchise follow linear procedural formats—each episode solving a new case—CIA promises a darker, more complex tone rooted in real-world counterterrorism strategies. According to verified reports from the Los Angeles Times and Roger Ebert, the show avoids sensationalism while still delivering suspenseful storytelling that reflects actual agency protocols.

“It’s not about flashy gadgets or globe-trotting chases,” says Tom Ellis, who stars as CIA Case Officer Daniel Reyes. “It’s about trust, strategy, and the moral gray areas that come with protecting America without compromising civil liberties.”

Ellis plays Reyes, a sharp but emotionally guarded intelligence operative recently reassigned from overseas operations. He teams up with Nick Gehlfuss’s character, FBI Special Agent Michael Carter, an idealistic investigator who questions the ethics of working directly under the CIA. Their contrasting personalities create immediate friction—what the show calls an “odd couple dynamic”—but also fuel compelling dialogue and unexpected camaraderie.

Cast Connections and Franchise Expansion

One of the most exciting aspects of CIA is its deep integration into the broader FBI family. Jeremy Sisto returns as Jubal Valentine, a familiar face from previous FBI installments (including FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International), now appearing as a guest star in the season premiere titled “Directed Energy.” This continuity strengthens viewer investment for fans who have followed the franchise since its inception over a decade ago.

Additionally, Natalee Linez joins the cast as Deputy Director Sarah Kim, bringing gravitas and institutional knowledge to the newly formed task force. Linez previously appeared in three episodes of Chicago P.D., further cementing her place within Wolf Entertainment’s interconnected universe.

The ensemble also includes Shiva Negar as tech analyst Amirah Hassan, whose expertise becomes critical when digital forensics intersect with national security. Supporting roles are filled by actors known for their work in political dramas and thrillers, lending authenticity to the high-stakes environment.

How to Watch CIA for Free

For cord-cutters and budget-conscious viewers, CBS has made it easy to catch the premiere live. Both Fubo and DIRECTV offer free trials that allow access to CBS programming without committing to paid subscriptions. Once signed up, viewers can stream “Directed Energy” on demand through the CBS app or website.

Paramount+ subscribers will also gain exclusive behind-the-scenes content and early access to episodes, making it the go-to platform for binge-watchers eager to dive deeper into the CIA world.

Critical Reception and Initial Buzz

As of late February 2026, early reviews from trusted entertainment outlets like Los Angeles Times and Roger Ebert suggest that CIA stands out for its procedural consistency and strong performances—particularly from Ellis and Gehlfuss. Critics note that unlike some recent Fox or NBC crime dramas that veer into melodrama, CIA maintains a grounded, methodical approach reminiscent of classic Law & Order episodes.

However, one recurring critique is that the show may “refuse to read the room,” as noted by Roger Ebert. Some reviewers argue that the narrative occasionally leans too heavily on bureaucratic jargon or fails to fully explore the emotional toll of undercover work. That said, these critiques haven’t dampened initial audience enthusiasm, which has generated over 10,000 mentions across social media platforms—a significant indicator of buzz ahead of the official launch.

Why Domestic Terrorism Is a Growing TV Theme

The decision to center CIA around preventing domestic terrorism isn’t arbitrary—it aligns with real-world shifts in U.S. intelligence priorities. Since the rise of homegrown extremist networks and coordinated cyberattacks, agencies like the CIA and FBI have increasingly collaborated on internal threat assessments. By dramatizing this partnership, CIA offers viewers a rare glimpse into how intelligence communities operate behind closed doors.

Moreover, the show’s setting—New York City—adds cultural resonance. As one of the nation’s largest metropolitan hubs, NYC symbolizes both vulnerability and resilience in times of crisis. Scenes shot in authentic locations across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens ground the story in realism, avoiding the glamorized tropes often seen in spy fiction.

Looking Ahead: Season One Expectations

Producers have confirmed that CIA will run for at least one full season, with plans for potential crossovers with other FBI spinoffs depending on ratings performance. Executive producer David Hudgins hinted in a recent interview that future episodes could explore international ramifications of domestic plots, potentially introducing foreign antagonists or diplomatic fallout scenarios.

Audiences can expect a mix of standalone cases and serialized arcs, with Season 1 focusing on uncovering a shadowy cell planning coordinated attacks during major public events. Early promotional materials tease appearances by familiar characters from FBI, FBI: Most Wanted, and even Chicago Fire, reinforcing the interconnectedness of Wolf’s universe.

Final Thoughts

With its blend of procedural intrigue, moral complexity, and star power, CIA represents CBS’s boldest move yet in expanding the FBI franchise beyond law enforcement. While not without minor flaws, the series delivers on its promise of authentic, suspenseful storytelling that resonates with today’s politically aware audiences.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Dick Wolf’s empire or simply love well-crafted crime dramas, CIA offers something fresh: the tension of keeping America safe from within, without losing sight of the values that define us.

Tune in Monday, February 23, 2026—and don’t miss the chance to watch live for free with a Fubo or DIRECTV trial.