Necar Zadegan joins CBS FBI offshoot CIA as series regular

Necar Zadegan is stepping into her next big era with an undeniable presence.

Fresh off a string of standout roles that proved her range and intensity, Necar isn’t just joining another TV drama; she’s entering one of network television’s most high-profile new launches.

She’s now been cast as a series regular on CBS’s upcoming FBI offshoot, CIA, marking a major move into a world of covert operations, moral dilemmas, and high-stakes storytelling.

Let’s break down what this casting means, why Necar is the perfect fit, and how her addition could shape the future of this new franchise chapter.

A New Face Steps Into a Pivotal Role

CBS has officially found its new Chief of Station for the upcoming FBI spinoff, CIA. Necar Zadegan has joined the cast as a series regular, taking over the role originally held by Michael Michele. The NCIS: New Orleans alumna will lead alongside Tom Ellis and Nick Gehlfuss.

The casting news comes after weeks of behind-the-scenes turbulence for the Dick Wolf production. Michele departed the series earlier this month without any official explanation from the network. Production had already been on hiatus for two weeks following multiple creative exits.

Zadegan brings considerable experience to the role after three seasons on NCIS: New Orleans. She played Special Agent Hannah Khoury on that series from 2018 until its end in 2021. Her return to CBS marks a homecoming of sorts for the versatile actress.

The Chief of Station role places Zadegan at the center of the CIA’s New York operations. She will play a central leadership role within the agency’s New York-based operation, connecting the work of Ellis and Gehlfuss’s characters. Her character promises to be crucial to the show’s dynamic.

Tom Ellis Leads as a Morally Complex CIA Officer

Lucifer star Tom Ellis headlines the series as Hart Hoxton, a CIA case officer with questionable methods. The character operates outside traditional rules and embraces deception as part of the job.

“He is someone who has to use guile and deceit and lies to get what he wants,” Ellis told TVLine. “There’s large dose of moral ambiguity that comes with him.” This darker approach sets CIA apart from other procedurals in the Wolf universe.

The Welsh actor will use an American accent since the CIA does not employ foreign nationals. He joked that he might go undercover as a British man at some point.

The actor has expressed enthusiasm about working with Dick Wolf Productions despite the rocky start. He believes the series is developing its own distinct identity separate from the flagship FBI. Ellis sees the CIA as more than just another franchise spinoff.

Nick Gehlfuss Brings Law and Order to the Partnership

Chicago Med veteran Nick Gehlfuss plays FBI Special Agent Bill Goodman opposite Ellis. His character follows rules strictly and believes completely in the legal system. This creates natural friction with Hart Hoxton’s loose cannon approach.

Gehlfuss spoke with TV Insider about the contrast between his two famous roles. “His name is Bill and not Will. It’s such a hard stretch to go from a Will to a Bill,” he said, laughing. He described Bill as very different from his Chicago Med character.

“He is teamed up with essentially a Will Halsted of the CIA, played by Tom Ellis,” Gehlfuss explained. “And so it is a wonderful collision of the odd couple in a way.” The dynamic between these opposing personalities forms the heart of the series.

The actor encouraged fans to give the new show a chance with simple advice. “If you like Will, you’ll love Bill,” he promised audiences familiar with his previous work. His FBI agent brings structure to counter Hart’s chaos.

Zadegan’s Impressive Career Spans Stage and Screen

Necar Zadegan first gained critical acclaim playing First Lady Dalia Hassan on season eight of 24. The character eventually became president in one of the show’s most memorable storylines. This role established her as a powerful presence on screen.

Her Broadway debut came alongside Robin Williams in Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo in 2011. The Pulitzer Prize-nominated play earned many Tony Award accolades during its run. Zadegan originated the role of The Leper in this critically acclaimed production.

Beyond NCIS: New Orleans, she has appeared in numerous high-profile television projects. Her recent credits include Assistant D.A. Evelyn Foley on the Paramount+ series Mayor of Kingstown. She also had roles in Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce, Emily Owens M.D., and Star Trek: Picard.

What to Expect When CIA Premieres in February

CIA will debut on CBS on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 10 PM Eastern following FBI. The series focuses on a clandestine task force investigating domestic terrorism threats in New York. Cases will draw from both FBI and CIA jurisdictions.

Natalee Linez rounds out the main cast as CIA analyst Gina Rojas, supporting the lead duo. The show promises a different storytelling style compared to other FBI franchise entries. Ellis believes this fresh approach will help the CIA stand apart. Fans can expect moral complexity alongside procedural drama.

Universal Television produces in association with Wolf Entertainment and CBS Studios. Dick Wolf serves as executive producer alongside Mike Weiss and Peter Jankowski. Despite all obstacles, CBS appears confident CIA will meet its February premiere date.

TL;DR

• Necar Zadegan joins the CBS FBI spinoff CIA as a series regular, replacing Michael Michele as Chief of Station.
• She stars alongside Tom Ellis as CIA officer Hart Hoxton and Nick Gehlfuss as FBI agent Bill Goodman.
• Zadegan previously starred in NCIS: New Orleans for three seasons and appeared in 24 and Mayor of Kingstown.
• Production faced multiple setbacks, including two showrunner exits and cast departures.
• CIA premieres February 23, 2026, at 10 PM on CBS after FBI.

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This article was made with AI assistance and human editing.