The FBI team is about to undergo a major leadership change. In the Monday, December 1 episode titled “Fadeaway,” Special Agent in Charge Isobel Castille will be promoted to the role of ADIC, or Assistant Director in Charge. This significant career move forces her to make a critical decision that will reshape the New York office: choosing her own successor. While her first choice is her trusted colleague Jubal, his complicated past with the bureau’s leadership makes his selection far from certain.
Understanding Isobel’s Big Promotion to ADIC
For Isobel Castille, played by Alana De La Garza, this promotion represents more than just a new title. It is a recognition of her dedication and resilience, especially after the life-threatening situation she faced at the end of the previous season. The ADIC role is a high-ranking position within the FBI, typically overseeing the bureau’s largest field offices.
“I think the ADIC role for her is a sign that all her hard work and dedication to the job over the years has paid off,” De La Garza explained in an interview.
This promotion comes at a pivotal time for the character. Since returning to work this season, Isobel has been contemplating her future path within the FBI. The offer to become ADIC provides a clear direction and a major step forward in her career.
The Succession Problem and Jubal’s Complicated Candidacy
Before Isobel can assume her new duties, she must name the agent who will take over her current position as Special Agent in Charge of the New York office. This decision was set in motion earlier in Season 8, when ADIC Ropac informed her that picking a successor would be a requirement of her promotion.
Isobel’s immediate and logical choice was Jubal, portrayed by Jeremy Sisto. He has consistently proven his capability, including stepping up to lead the team during Isobel’s recent recovery. However, this suggestion did not receive support from the FBI’s higher management. They view Jubal’s history—which includes professional suspensions and internal conflicts—as carrying too much “baggage” for the role.
“Isobel always acts in the interest of what is best. I don’t think she would have thrown Jubal’s name in the ring if she didn’t think he’d be the right fit. But, I also think she knew going into it that Jubal — between suspensions and conflicts — may not be a favorite for the job,” De La Garza stated, acknowledging the difficult position.
The central question of the episode becomes whether Isobel will advocate for her preferred candidate against the wishes of her superiors or select someone else who can gain unanimous approval.
What Isobel is Looking For in a New Leader
Beyond the specific dilemma with Jubal, Isobel has clear criteria for the kind of leader she wants to leave in charge of her team. Her priority is the stability and effectiveness of the bureau.
“She is looking for someone who is strong and determined and who acts in the best interest of the bureau — no matter the circumstances,” De La Garza revealed.
This statement underscores the weight of her decision. Isobel is not just filling a vacancy; she is ensuring the team she built remains in capable hands. The ideal successor must possess unwavering integrity and the determination to do what is right, even under extreme pressure.
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A High-Stakes Case Amid the Leadership Drama
While the internal promotion drama unfolds, the team must also handle an urgent external crisis. The episode “Fadeaway” features a major case where a large-scale explosion destroys a Brooklyn apartment complex. The agents quickly identify the perpetrator, only to discover he is acting on orders from a convicted felon who is currently serving a prison sentence. This high-pressure investigation will test the team’s focus as they simultaneously navigate the uncertainty of their changing command structure.
FBI airs new episodes on Mondays at 9/8c on CBS.
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