CBS Trims Episode Orders for Multiple Series to Expand Fall Lineup

CBS is making strategic cuts to its episode orders across several established series to accommodate new programming in the upcoming season.

The network's Friday night slate, which has held the No. 1 position for 16 consecutive seasons, will feature additional shows despite the reductions. To balance the expanded schedule, four series are being impacted by lower episode counts.

Fire Country heads into its fifth season with just 13 episodes, a significant drop from the 20-episode run of season 4. The show will also depart the schedule earlier than usual.

The NCIS franchise faces changes as well. NCIS: Origins will see its third season reduced to 10 episodes, down from 20 previously. The series will be replaced in its 10 p.m. time slot by NCIS: Sydney midseason, which will also operate with a 10-episode order rather than the standard 18.

Matlock, entering its third season, will produce 13 episodes and is being held for a midseason premiere.

On the new side, CBS is bringing several fresh entries to the schedule. The network will debut dramas Cupertino, Einstein, and NCIS: New York, which stars LL Cool J and Scott Caan. A new comedy titled Eternally Yours will also join the lineup.

The new NCIS spinoff and Cupertino are each receiving full 20-episode season orders, while Einstein will launch with 13 episodes.