The first trailer for CBS’s new series CIA is here, and it confirms what many suspected: the partnership between a rule-breaking CIA agent and a straight-laced FBI agent is pure chaos. Starring Tom Ellis and Nick Gehlfuss, the footage introduces an “odd couple” dynamic that promises constant clashes as they work together on a secret task force in New York. The show is set to premiere on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 10/9c on CBS, following the return of FBI for its eighth season.
The Mismatched Duo at the Show’s Center
The core of CIA is the forced partnership between two operatives from completely different worlds. Tom Ellis plays Colin Glass, a fast-talking, roguish CIA case officer who views rules as suggestions. His new partner is Bill Goodman, a seasoned and principled FBI Special Agent played by Nick Gehlfuss.
Their fundamental differences are highlighted immediately in the trailer. In a key scene, Colin is subjected to a polygraph test. When asked if he has ever told a lie, he laughs and replies:
“Are you serious? Isn’t lying part of the job description of the CIA?”
Bill watches this exchange with clear disapproval, setting the tone for their relationship. The trailer even shows them sarcastically nicknaming each other “Oscar” and “Felix,” a direct reference to the classic mismatched roommates from The Odd Couple, underscoring their incompatible personalities.
A Partnership Built on Tension and Mistrust
The conflict arises from their opposing approaches to law enforcement and national security. The FBI operates openly within the United States, building cases bound by law and procedure. The CIA, however, primarily works overseas on covert intelligence missions. The show places them together in New York City to investigate domestic terrorism threats, a scenario that immediately creates friction.
Colin believes in getting results by any means necessary, comfortably operating in moral gray areas. Bill is dedicated to doing everything by the book, believing the rules exist for a reason. This clash is evident in their dialogue. At one point in the trailer, Bill tells Colin, “You’re not much use to me alive, but you’re really no use to me dead.” Colin retorts, “I never knew you cared”. The sarcastic exchange hints at a grudging, tense partnership where danger forces them to rely on one another despite their mutual frustration.
Supporting Cast and Creative Team
The series features a supporting cast that manages the duo’s chaotic energy. Necar Zadegan plays the Chief of the CIA’s New York Station, the authority figure overseeing their joint task force. Natalee Linez joins the cast as Gina Rojas, a CIA analyst.
CIA is the latest extension of producer Dick Wolf’s ever-growing television universe, specifically spun off from the popular FBI franchise. The series is produced by Wolf Entertainment, CBS Studios, and Universal Television. The road to production saw some changes behind the scenes. The series was initially planned to be introduced through a “backdoor pilot” episode of FBI, but those plans were scrapped in favor of a straight-to-series order. Filming began in New York City in September 2025.
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Fan Reactions to the First Look
The release of the trailer has sparked reactions online, with viewers quickly picking up on the show’s central comedic conflict. Comments on social media posts highlight both anticipation and skepticism about the premise.
Some fans are excited to see Tom Ellis return to television in a charismatic, rule-breaking role reminiscent of his past work. One social media user commented, “I liked Tom Ellis in ‘Lucifer’ so look forward to seeing him in this new show”. Others noted the sheer number of law enforcement shows, with one person joking, “Is there any other agency they don’t have a series? What’s next, ICE?”.
When and Where to Watch CIA
CIA will premiere on Monday, February 23, 2026. The series will air on CBS at 10/9c, taking over the time slot that previously belonged to other FBI franchise shows. It will follow the winter return of the flagship FBI series, which begins its new episodes in February 2026.
- Network: CBS
- Premiere Date: Monday, February 23, 2026
- Time Slot: 10:00 PM ET / 9:00 PM CT
- Lead-In: FBI (Season 8)
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