What happened to Scott Forrester on FBI: International? Character’s fate explored

FBI: International is an American Procedural drama, the third spinoff in the popular FBI franchise. The series revolves around the adventures of a team of elite special FBI agents based in Budapest. The team is responsible for solving international crimes committed by American citizens across the world, especially in Europe.

Until close to the end season of season 3, Special Agent Scott Forrester served as the leader of the elite Fly Team. American actor Luke Kleintank, who was behind the role, announced in April 2024 that he would not renew his contract after the third season.

As per a Deadline article published on April 23, 2024, the actor left the show to provide more time for his family. The actor was last seen on FBI: International in season 3 episode 11, which aired on May 7, 2024. In the final episode of season 3, titled Tuxhorn, the viewers learn that Scott is on a secret mission to Russia with his mother.

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Who will lead the elite Fly Team after Scott Forrester in FBI: International

In the first episode of FBI: International season 4, titled A Leader, Not a Tourist, the Fly Team is introduced to Special Agent Wes Mitchell. Played by actor Jesse Lee Soffer, Wes first arrives in Budapest as an LAPD cop, investigating the murder of his friend who was shot in Los Angeles.

He asks the team to help him solve the case and is quickly accepted, as Wes had earlier served as Vo's trainer. His entrance to the team became a worthy substitute for Scott's unexpected exit from the storyline. Wes succeeded in proving himself to be a worthy addition to the team and was voted by Andre, Megan, Tate, and Vo to become the new lead.

Together, the team has freed the solved hostage of 70 civilians, including an American ambassador in the Netherlands, operated search operations for a disappeared American teenager during a beach party in Portugal, and scrutinized a US Drug Enforcement Administration special agent in Spain.

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How FBI: International amended its storyline after Luke Kleintank's exit

After Kleintank announced that he wouldn't be reprising his role for FBI: International season 4, the creators decided to change the character's fate. In season 3 episode 12, titled Gift, Vo and Lange discovered that Scott's sudden withdrawal from the scene might be related to his mother, held captive in a prison in Russia.

Scott embarks on a journey to free his mother and help her escape to Alaska. Helping a fugitive break out of prison puts him under the radar of authority. Hence, it is unlikely that Scott can easily return to the team. Hence, Luke Kleintank won't regularly appear on FBI: International anymore. However, cameos from Scott Forrester can be expected in future episodes.

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Luke Kleintank talks about the reason behind his exit from FBI: International

In the same conversation with Deadline, Luke Kleintank opened up about his from the series. The actor confessed it was difficult to leave the series as one of its primary characters. He went to confess that he wanted to concentrate on his private life and provide enough time to his family.

"This decision is driven by my unwavering commitment to my family, whose love and well-being are paramount in my life. I'm profoundly thankful for the extraordinary cast and crew of the show, who have not only been colleagues but also a family away from home."

The actor further added,

"Their unwavering dedication and remarkable talents have made every moment on set an unforgettable journey that has enriched my life in countless ways. Lastly, I would also like to extend my thanks to the fans who have supported us through the first three seasons."

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All the seasons of FBI: International are available for streaming on CBS and Peacock.