There was an important reason why Scott Forrester (Luke Kleintank) left FBI: International after season 3. For the first three seasons of the police procedural, Forrester was the head of the elite Fly Team, which investigated international crimes that threatened the safety of the United States or violated the rights of US citizens living abroad. Like most shows in the One Chicago universe, it has had its fair share of cast turnover, though Forrester was a constant presence until near the end of season 3.
The Fly Team tackles tricky and sensitive cases, and the type of work they do requires them to be more like a close-knit family. Thus, Forrester's absence will leave a large hole that will be difficult to fill. The team's adjustment to a new leader will be a strong arc for FBI: International season 4. However, Forrester's absence from this season is not solely for storyline purposes, as Luke Kleintank chose not to renew his contract at the end of season 3.
Luke Kleintank Left FBI To Spend More Time With His Family
Kleitank's Decision Required FBI: International To Explain Forrester's Absence
Kleintank announced he was leaving FBI: International shortly after the series scored its season 4 renewal. He said he wanted to spend more time with his family, though he was grateful for the three years he spent on set (via Deadline). This decision meant that the series needed to quickly find a way to write his character out, as there were only a few episodes left before his departure.
Forrester's final episode aired on May 7, with two new episodes left in the season. Thus, Forrester was said to be missing in action. Meanwhile, Chicago Med alum Colin Donnell temporarily joined the cast as an NSA agent who led the team in his absence. By the finale, it had been revealed that Forrester was hiding out in Russia with his mother, who was a fugitive, thus ending the possibility that he would return to the Fly Team after being found.
Who Will Replace Forrester As Fly Team's New Leader In Season 4
Another One Chicago Alum Is Joining The Cast of FBI: International
Forrester's disappearance will be traumatic for the Fly Team moving forward. The squad counted on him to always be there to help lead the way. However, work continues for them, hence why they will have to adjust to their new leader, Wes Mitchell, who will be played by Chicago PD alum Jesse Lee Soffer. This adjustment will likely lead to meaty storylines. Hopefully, Soffer replacing Kleintack on FBI: International can make up for the disappointing way Forrester's exit was handled by properly tackling the aftermath of Kleintank's character leaving.
FBI: International has not revealed much about Mitchell yet beyond the identity of the actor playing him. However, he will likely have a different leadership style than Forrester to maximize the drama revolving around him taking over the Fly Team. His ability to get the team to accept his authority despite their heartbreak over Forrester will be his first real test, and it will be interesting to find out how he handles this challenge.
