“FBI” is now the second freshman series of the 2018-19 TV season to receive a full-season pickup.
Announced this afternoon, CBS has officially ordered an additional nine episodes for the Dick Wolf-produced crime drama, bringing its first season from its initial 13-episodes to 22. The news comes just one day after NBC picked up one of its own freshman titles, the medical drama “New Amsterdam,” for a full season as well.
Created by Craig Turk and Dick Wolf, the series focuses on the inner workings of the New York office of the FBI, and the talented agents there who work tirelessly to keep the country safe. The series stars Missy Peregrym, Zeeko Zaki, Ebonee Noel, Jeremy Sisto, Sela Ward, and more.
The series has been a solid ratings performer since its premiere, averaging a 1.2 live + same day rating in the adults 18-49 demo and 9.54 million viewers. It’s currently tied with “The Neighborhood” as CBS’ highest-rated freshman series of the season so far.
Despite the show’s strong ratings performance, however, “FBI” has been subject to some considerable behind-the-scenes creative changes over the past few months. After original showrunner Craig Turk stepped down from the position over creative differences, he was replaced by Greg Plageman back in July. That was, until yesterday when Plageman was replaced by “Chicago P.D.” showrunner, Rick Eid, and “Chicago Fire” showrunner, Derek Haas.
Now, it looks like even with those creative changes, CBS is willing to stick with “FBI” for at least one full season. The show will air its fourth episode next Tuesday night.