‘CSI’ may get TV movie as series finale; ‘CSI: Cyber’ renewal likely

We knew that “CSI” was probably not going to have too long a life on TV after season 16, mostly just because it’s expensive at this point, and the ratings are not exactly great.

However, what we are learning more and more at this point is that CBS really does seem to be both invested and interested in making sure that this is a product that really gets a proper sending-off, and are not just kicking it to the curb in a way that they did recently to “CSI: Miami.” With that in mind, Deadline reports that CBS is considering ordering a TV movie to close things off, though a potential six-part final season (which was previously mentioned) is something that is still on the table.

Meanwhile, the site also reports that despite mediocre ratings, the network is also looking to bring back spin-off “CSI: Cyber,” though maybe with a few creative tweaks. Given the recent success of Patricia Arquette for “Boyhood,” we understand the appeal of wanting to keep her around the show if at all possible.

If “CSI” does end with a move, what we wonder is simple: Do you bring back someone like George Eads, who just left after this past season? What about some other beloved cast members from seasons past? The struggle you run into is that you only have so much time to tell a story, but then so many different eras of the show that you want to pay tribute to. It’s a delicate balance when you stop to think about it.