When TV shows meet their untimely end, there is often a glimmer of hope that they might find a new home on another network or a streaming platform. The recent cancellations of FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International by CBS sparked discussions about potential rescues from other channels like NBC or even digital outlets. However, a critical development has dampened those hopes considerably.
The spirited campaigns to save shows like SWAT can be observed among its cast and crew, but sadly, such enthusiasm appears lacking for the FBI series. As of now, optimism for both FBI: Most Wanted season 7 and FBI: International season 5 is in short supply.
Reasons for Hope: Reviving FBI: Most Wanted & International
The FBI Spinoff’s Integration into the Dick Wolf Universe
Both FBI: International season 4 and Most Wanted season 6 have cultivated robust fan bases, which can be crucial in advocating for a show’s survival. Historical examples like The Expanse, saved by Amazon, and Lucifer, which found a new life on Netflix, demonstrate the power of a vocal audience. Similarly, the fervent support for Magnum PI led to its revival by NBC after CBS dropped it, reminding us that dedicated followings can make a difference.
Moreover, both shows are intricately woven into the Dick Wolf universe, sharing connectivity with Law & Order and One Chicago. Their alignment with the tone of these existing NBC shows further enhances the rationale for their potential revival. Given that both productions are managed by Universal TV Studios—also behind other Dick Wolf creations—it stands to reason that NBC might consider picking up the FBI series, especially since there’s a demand for compelling procedural dramas.
Even if NBC ultimately decides against airing them, alternative platforms like Peacock offer viable possibilities. With new seasons of Law & Order: Original Crime airing specifically on Peacock, there’s a precedent for placing FBI content in that digital space. Of all the options, FBI: Most Wanted notably exhibits a tone well-suited for this platform.
The Disheartening Reality: FBI: Most Wanted & International Not Being Considered for Revival
The Series Are Crafting Their Own Conclusive Endings
Unfortunately, it seems highly unlikely that we will witness FBI: Most Wanted season 7 or FBI: International season 5. A major factor contributing to this is the revelation that neither show is being actively marketed to other networks or platforms, as stated by TVLine.
Despite the strong desire from fans for more episodes, the acknowledgment from the writers that they have crafted series finales within the season finales may indicate a decisive closure that fans may find disappointing.
While SWAT showcased a collective push from its cast and crew to keep the series alive, the apparent resignation of the FBI shows’ teams to their fates paints a starkly different picture. This acceptance signifies a lack of desire to continue the narrative, placing the shows in a state of finality. Even if fans yearn for additional content, the creative team has indicated the journey is complete, further solidifying the impending end.
This conclusion isn’t entirely negative; closure can offer some comfort. After all, abrupt cancellations leaving audiences hanging, such as with NCIS: Hawai’i and So Help Me Todd, have frustrated many. At least with the conclusion of the FBI series, viewers may find satisfactory resolutions that allow for a proper farewell to beloved characters.
Furthermore, as the FBI universe continues to evolve, there remains a sliver of hope for the reappearance of familiar characters. Similar to the NCIS franchise, which has revived characters like LL Cool J in recent projects, the potential exists for appearances from the FBI shows in future crossovers. Mini-crossover events, such as Jubal connecting via video calls with the Fly Team, offer a beacon of continuity, allowing actors like Shantel VanSanten to rejoin the ensemble.
While guest appearances won’t replace a full series revival, they do provide a measure of comfort, especially amidst the closure of both shows. Although the dream of resuscitating FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International dims with the knowledge of their stalled progress, it nonetheless lingers faintly, reminding us of the invaluable impact these narratives have had on their viewers.
Source: TVLine