My mission is to show the public who the FBI is and what the FBI does through my books, blog, and podcast case reviews. However, what most people know about the FBI comes from books, TV, and movies.
The entertainment industry loves featuring FBI agents as their favorite characters and action heroes. Most people have never met a real FBI agent. So, these scripted TV shows are their reference points. One of the first FBI shows on TV was The F.B.I., which premiered in 1965, running for nine seasons with 234 episodes. FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover was a consultant for the series and had script approval power. Nowadays, when portraying the Bureau in a TV show or movie, consultation with the FBI Director and his staff is no longer a requirement for producers and filmmakers. Although, for the most part, modern day shows continue to illuminate the FBI brand by reflecting a flattering image of the FBI and the work FBI employees do.
Here’s a chart of the top scripted FBI TV shows and limited series. What’s your favorite? Mine is Mindhunter.
My criteria for what makes a show an FBI TV show are if at least one of the main characters is an FBI agent and if there are scenes solely focused on what the FBI character does. Is there a show you believe I should have included on this FBI TV show list?
To date, I’ve published over 75 reviews of TV shows and movies, highlighting teachable moments to debunk cliches about the FBI. Read my reviews here.
My reviews are not critiques of the plots, characters, or productions. They are instead opportunities to learn more about the FBI by highlighting teachable moments. I understand that it is impossible to create an accurate portrayal of an FBI investigation if the investigation needs to be solved within less than an hour. Corners must be cut, and creative license used to move the story forward. I get it. I really do. I write my reviews to show you what would happen in real life.
Each month, I wonder if I’ll eventually deplete my supply of material, only to learn of more shows under production with a focus on FBI characters and plots. Blog security. Love it.
New FBI TV Series Coming in 2025
Duster, an upcoming American crime thriller television series created by J. J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan, is due to release on Max in 2025. It’s about the first black female FBI agent who teams with a getaway driver to take down a major crime syndicate operating in the Southwest in 1972. Rachel Hilson stars as FBI agent Nina. Josh Holloway is her confidential source, Jim. Here’s a short (very short) teaser.
Also coming in 2025 is Task, a crime drama from the creator of hit HBO miniseries Mare of Easttown. The show is set in the working class suburbs outside of Philadelphia, where FBI agent Tom heads a Task Force to put an end to a string of drug-house robberies led by an unsuspecting family man. The limited series stars Mark Ruffalo and Tom Pelphrey.
Both Duster and Task have finished filming. I’ll keep you posted on their premiere dates.
According to Deadline, there’s another FBI TV series in the works. The creator of White Collar has announced the development of a new version of the police procedural. Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, and Tiffani Thiessen are all set to reprise their roles.
