The dynamic on CBS’s new drama, CIA, extends beyond the scripted clashes between its leads, Tom Ellis and Nick Gehlfuss. Even as their characters—a by-the-book FBI agent and a more unconventional CIA operative—find themselves at odds, the actors themselves share a genuine rapport that’s proving essential to the display’s early success. The series, a joint venture from Dick Wolf and the team behind the FBI franchise, premiered on February 23, 2026, and is already generating buzz for its compelling characters and intricate storylines. The surprising connection between Ellis and Gehlfuss, however, may be the show’s secret weapon.
CIA centers on FBI agent Bill Goodman, portrayed by Gehlfuss, as he’s embedded within a CIA unit. His methodical approach immediately clashes with Colin Glass, the enigmatic agent played by Ellis, who favors a more unorthodox style. This tension, as Ellis explained, is intentional. “You need characters at the center that the audience will love,” he said. “If you have a show that’s going to run for a long time, the characters need a dynamic the audience can’t wait to watch every week. Bill and Colin’s opposing personalities is something people will love. Their relationship is the anchor of the show.” The show’s premise, exploring the complexities of inter-agency cooperation, taps into a familiar vein for audiences who enjoy procedural dramas with a focus on character development.
From ‘Lucifer’ to the CIA: Ellis’s Transition
For Tom Ellis, known for his charismatic portrayal of Lucifer Morningstar in the long-running series Lucifer, stepping into the role of Colin Glass represents a deliberate shift. While Lucifer allowed him to explore a fantastical character with a playful edge, CIA demands a more grounded and nuanced performance. Ellis has spoken about the appeal of playing a character operating in the shadows, navigating the moral ambiguities inherent in intelligence operate. He brings a similar intensity to Colin Glass, but tempered with a calculated restraint that sets him apart from his previous role. The actor’s ability to convey both charm and menace is proving crucial to the character’s appeal.
Gehlfuss’s Return to Procedural Drama
Nick Gehlfuss, previously recognized for his six-season run as Dr. Will Halstead on Chicago Med, returns to the procedural drama landscape with CIA. His portrayal of Bill Goodman emphasizes the agent’s dedication to protocol and his unwavering commitment to justice. Gehlfuss’s strength lies in his ability to portray characters with internal conflicts, and Bill Goodman is no exception. The character’s struggle to reconcile his principles with the often-unconventional methods of the CIA provides a compelling emotional core to the series. Fans of Chicago Med will recognize Gehlfuss’s talent for portraying complex, empathetic characters.
An Unexpected On-Set Bond
Despite the on-screen friction between their characters, Ellis and Gehlfuss have developed a strong friendship off-camera. This connection, they both say, is a key ingredient in the show’s chemistry. “Our relationship is very different than the tension caused by the characters we play,” Gehlfuss shared. “We laugh a lot, we have a similar brand of humor — it’s really great.” Ellis echoed this sentiment, adding with a smile, “Finally, we both found somebody who likes our jokes!” This easy camaraderie is evident in their interactions, creating a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere on set.
The actors’ connection even manifested in an amusingly coincidental injury. During filming of the first episode, which involved a scene requiring them to jump out of a van, both Ellis and Gehlfuss pulled their right quadriceps muscles. “There’s a huge moment in the first episode where Tom and I jump out of a van, and I pulled my right quad,” Gehlfuss recounted. “It was the silliest mistake. I go over to Tom and say, ‘You’re not going to believe what I just did … I pulled my quad.’ He looks right at me and replies, ‘I did the same thing!’ That was definitely a bonding moment, right there.” Ellis quipped, “Yes, exactly. But at least we have two working quads when working together!”
What Viewers Can Expect from ‘CIA’
Both actors emphasize the show’s commitment to realism and its exploration of the human side of intelligence work. “CIA is a grounded show, and the characters are more real-to-life than other roles Nick and I have played,” Ellis explained. “I reckon fans will fall in love with the concept and see how the relationship of these two very different men ebbs and flows — just like relationships that aren’t made for TV.” Gehlfuss added, “CIA brilliantly paired these two guys together, with different professions — and it works because they’re so different inherently. I’m having the time of my life filming with Tom, and I hope our dynamic resonates with people when they turn on the TV every Monday night.”
New episodes of CIA air every Monday at 10 p.m. ET on CBS. The show’s success hinges not only on its compelling premise and strong performances but likewise on the genuine connection between its two leads, a connection that promises to keep viewers engaged for seasons to approach. As the series unfolds, audiences can anticipate a deeper exploration of the complex relationship between Bill Goodman and Colin Glass, and the challenges they face navigating the treacherous world of international espionage.
The show’s creators have indicated that upcoming episodes will delve further into the personal lives of the supporting characters, adding layers of complexity to the already intricate narrative. Viewers can expect further developments in the overarching storyline, with new cases and challenges emerging each week. Stay tuned to CBS for the latest updates and episode previews.
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