A beloved actress from the world of television, Natalee Linez, is making her mark in an exciting new role alongside Tom Ellis in CBS’s highly anticipated FBI spin-off, titled CIA. The series, set to debut in midseason 2026, showcases a captivating narrative centered around intelligence operations on U.S. soil. With Linez’s impressive background and connection to popular series like Chicago PD and Tell Me Lies, her casting is generating significant buzz among fans.
Natalee Linez: A Rising Star
Natalee Linez is set to portray Gina Rojas, a CIA analyst who plays a pivotal role in the story. Linez is no stranger to the world of procedural dramas; her previous appearances include a memorable role as Valeria Soto in Season 12 of Chicago PD, which is part of Dick Wolf’s renowned One Chicago franchise. In that series, she demonstrated her ability to engage audiences with her performances, showcasing her dramatic skills and versatility.
In addition to her role in Chicago PD, Linez starred alongside Tom Ellis in Season 2 of Tell Me Lies, further solidifying her connection to the star. Their collaboration in that series gives the audience an opportunity to reacquaint themselves with their on-screen chemistry as they transition into this new narrative.
The Plot of CIA
In CIA, Tom Ellis takes on the role of a rule-breaking CIA case officer, who is paired with a by-the-book FBI agent. This dynamic is rich with potential for both conflict and camaraderie. With the backdrop of the CIA’s New York Station, the series promises to deliver gripping tales of investigation and cooperation between two agencies that sometimes operate at odds. Audiences can expect thrilling narratives that explore the complexities of espionage and law enforcement, along with the interpersonal dynamics of the lead characters.
This spin-off is part of CBS’s larger strategy to expand its procedural lineup, and the inclusion of Linez adds depth and talent to the cast. Notably, she joins Nick Gehlfuss, who will also lead alongside Ellis, and Michael Michele, who portrays the station chief. The ensemble cast boasts an impressive array of talent, making it a series to watch for fans of crime dramas.
Production Changes and Premiere Timeline
Originally slated for a Fall 2025 premiere, CIA has undergone some changes, moving its debut to midseason 2026. This shift was influenced by a leadership change behind the scenes, with Warren Leight, known for his work on Law & Order: SVU and FBI: Most Wanted, stepping in as the new showrunner. His involvement is likely to bring fresh ideas and a unique vision to the project, promising a product that aligns with the high standards set by the One Chicago franchise.
These adjustments are indicative of CBS’s commitment to ensuring the quality and coherence of its new series. The executive producing team, which includes Dick Wolf and Nicole Perlman, boasts an impressive pedigree that has resulted in numerous successful shows. With Leight at the helm, CIA aims to capture viewers’ attention with well-crafted storylines and engaging characters.
Expanding the One Chicago Universe
The casting of Natalee Linez is particularly noteworthy as it helps to further intertwine the world of Chicago PD with the new CIA spin-off. As part of Dick Wolf’s television universe, which includes hit series like Law & Order, FBI, and Chicago Fire, this connection is likely to resonate with loyal fans who have followed the One Chicago franchise. Linez’s addition is a testament to the interconnected storytelling that has become a hallmark of Wolf’s productions.
Beyond her prior work on Chicago PD, Linez has appeared in notable series like Power Book III: Raising Kanan, 9-1-1, and CSI: Vegas. Her diverse roles highlight her versatility as an actress and her ability to adapt to different characters and genres, making her an exciting addition to the CIA series.
Expectations and Audience Anticipation
As the premiere date approaches, excitement is building among fans. The combination of a familiar face from Chicago PD with Tom Ellis, who has gained significant popularity for his role in Lucifer, creates high expectations for the chemistry between the lead characters. The premise of navigating the intricacies of agency collaboration, set against a backdrop of national security threats, presents a ripe opportunity for riveting storylines.
Moreover, the strong concept of CIA brings with it the promise of engaging narratives that explore timely themes, such as the balance between law enforcement and intelligence operations. With societal issues surrounding security and surveillance more relevant than ever, the show is poised to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences.
Conclusion
In summary, the announcement that Natalee Linez will be joining Tom Ellis in the CBS FBI spin-off, CIA, has ignited excitement among viewers and fans of procedural dramas. With Linez’s talent and experience, particularly from her previous role in Chicago PD, she brings valuable depth to the ensemble cast. The series’ premise, centered around the collaboration between the FBI and CIA, sets the stage for a thrilling exploration of the complexities of national security.
As the production gears up for its midseason 2026 debut, fans eagerly await what promises to be a compelling addition to the world of television. With strong executive leadership, a well-crafted storyline, and a talented cast, CIA is shaping up to be a must-watch series for fans of both crime dramas and the broader One Chicago universe. As we draw closer to its premiere, one thing is clear: the excitement for Linez’s character and the dynamic narrative ahead is palpable and will undoubtedly keep audiences engaged.
