Eriq La Salle Exits ‘FBI’ Spinoff as Executive Producer
In a significant development for CBS’s upcoming FBI spin-off titled CIA, Eriq La Salle has exited his role as executive producer. His departure follows the exit of Michael Michele, a leading cast member, who left the series last week. La Salle had been associated with the project since its inception, including directing the pilot episode.
Eriq La Salle’s Departure from CIA
La Salle’s exit comes after a series of changes in the production team. The crime drama was initially announced in April with a straight-to-series order, but underwent a change in showrunner in July. Warren Leight replaced David Hudgins, who was previously involved with FBI: Most Wanted. Despite these transitions, filming for CIA commenced in September and continues uninterrupted, with a midseason premiere now scheduled for CBS.
Key Details about CIA
- Premiere Date: Originally slated for fall 2025, now pushed to midseason.
- Cast: Tom Ellis as a CIA case officer and Nick Gehlfuss as an FBI agent.
- Plot Summary: The show focuses on the partnership between a rule-breaking CIA officer and a rigorous FBI agent.
- Executive Producers: Dick Wolf and Warren Leight, alongside several others.
With La Salle stepping back, he plans to dedicate his efforts to writing. He recently signed a two-book deal with Penguin Random House’s Sourcebooks. The fourth and fifth books in his thriller series, Martyr Maker, are scheduled for release, with the fourth book expected in September 2026.
Impact of Departures on Production
The departures of La Salle and Michele may lead to additional changes within the cast. There are discussions about recasting Michele’s role as the head of CIA’s New York Station. Meanwhile, Natalee Linez will also be featured as a CIA analyst in the series.
Eriq La Salle has been a prominent figure in Wolf Entertainment for the past decade, contributing to several other series, including Chicago P.D. and FBI. His exit from CIA marks a new chapter as he shifts his focus to literary pursuits.
