**Michael Michele Exits CBS’ FBI Spinoff CIA Amid Production Changes**

Production on CBS’ upcoming FBI spinoff *CIA* has experienced a significant shakeup ahead of its debut. One of the show’s lead cast members, Michael Michele, has exited the project as development continues under new creative direction for its midseason premiere.

According to Deadline, Michele, who played the head of the CIA’s New York Station, has left the series. Producers have not yet confirmed whether her role will be recast.

The series stars Tom Ellis and Nick Gehlfuss and began production in September in anticipation of its midseason launch. Created by Dick Wolf, *CIA* follows two unlikely partners working in New York: Ellis portrays a fast-talking CIA officer, while Gehlfuss plays a by-the-book FBI agent. Together, they tackle national security threats. The cast also includes Natalee Linez as a CIA analyst.

Behind the scenes, production has undergone several changes, including a recent showrunner replacement. CBS initially planned to debut *CIA* in 2025 but later pushed the release to 2026. This decision came after Warren Leight, known for *Law & Order: SVU*, replaced *FBI: Most Wanted* showrunner David Hudgins. This marks the second major shift for the spinoff following earlier production adjustments.

CBS ordered the series straight to production in April. Universal Television produces the show in partnership with Wolf Entertainment and CBS Studios.

Michele’s departure follows her recent recurring role opposite Queen Latifah on *The Equalizer* and continues her longstanding collaboration with Wolf, dating back to her first major role on *New York Undercover*.

Her exit comes as CBS expands the FBI universe, which already includes *FBI: Most Wanted* and *FBI: International*. Executive producers on *CIA* include Dick Wolf, Warren Leight, Nicole Perlman, David Chasteen, and Peter Jankowski.

Despite the casting change, production on *CIA* continues as the network prepares for its updated midseason premiere, with new updates and behind-the-scenes adjustments underway.
https://www.comingsoon.net/tv/news/2053946-fbi-spin-off-cia-loses-michael-michele