AceShowbiz - Necar Zadegan brings her extensive experience in police procedurals to the new CBS series CIA, drawing interesting comparisons between her past role on NCIS: New Orleans and her current character, Nikki Reynard. Having previously portrayed Special Agent Hannah Khoury on NCIS: New Orleans and appeared in Law & Order, Zadegan is well-versed in the nuances of procedural dramas. In an interview with ScreenRant, she discussed what surprised her about working on CIA, the evolving dynamics of her character, and the unique relationship between CIA and its sister shows like FBI.

Reflecting on her time on NCIS: New Orleans, Necar Zadegan highlighted how the setting shapes each show’s tone and tempo. “I had a great experience working on NCIS,” she said, “and New Orleans was definitely a character in the show. I love that city, and that’s one of the reasons I wanted to do the show.” She contrasted that with the atmosphere of CIA, which is set in New York City and embraces a faster, more international pace. “It’s very different — very exciting and fast-paced, like the lifestyle in New York City. The slow, molasses feel of New Orleans gave that show a very specific tempo. This show feels different because of the city’s energy.”

While both roles involved leadership, Zadegan explained that Nikki Reynard’s mission at the CIA has a broader scope and global implications. To ground her portrayal, she worked closely with the writers to develop a backstory that adds depth and realism. “She has this sort of La Femme Nikita backstory. She was in the field, and she had that kind of role that Colin Glass is living now,” she said, referring to Tom Ellis’ character. “They know each other from that world and from that time in their lives. There’s a history they share that makes them relate to one another.”

This history builds an intimate bond between Nikki and Colin Glass, marked by mutual care and protection. Zadegan emphasized that, given their isolated positions, they have few people they can truly relate to, which adds layers of loneliness, privacy, and secrecy to their relationship. “They share an understanding that’s very personal,” she said. “I like to fill my world with stories and details that put me into that universe, and that’s what I did here.”

Central to CIA is the dynamic between Nikki and Tom Ellis’ character Colin Glass, described as a “loose cannon” agent who often clashes with those around him. Zadegan revealed that Nikki, as a field leader, feels the exhaustion of her responsibilities but can’t help forming bonds with her colleagues. Their interactions reveal the contrasts and necessary cooperation between the CIA and the FBI.

“In the opening scene between Tom and me, Nikki brings up the differences between the FBI and the CIA,” Zadegan explained. “She has a little disdain for it, but there’s mutual respect underneath. Particularly between Nikki and Jubal Valentine, played by Jeremy Sisto, who is a wonderful actor. When his character is introduced, you see that respect in how the agencies work differently but rely on each other.”

These nuanced portrayals highlight the distinct operational styles of the FBI and CIA, often showcased through subtle and clever storytelling. Zadegan stressed that despite these differences, the characters share intelligence and lean on one another when necessary. “We really get to explore that this season. There’s a lot behind the scenes and behind the glass, literally and figuratively, showing how things aren’t always what they seem.”

The shared past between Nikki and Colin, including their time working together in the field, adds complexity to their relationship and propels the spy storylines in upcoming episodes. “We’ll see how that all unfolds through some really fun spy story stuff,” Zadegan teased.

On a lighter note, Zadegan admitted that one of the biggest surprises of joining CIA was the impressive wardrobe her character enjoys. “I didn’t expect Nikki’s wardrobe to be that fantastic! It has this cool ‘I bought this in Paris’ vibe, fitting for someone who’s constantly traveling undercover and shopping around the world,” she laughed.

CIA is set to premiere on February 23 at 10pm ET/PT on CBS. With Necar Zadegan bringing her seasoned procedural experience and a richly developed character, the show promises a compelling blend of international espionage and interpersonal drama, distinguishing itself within the genre while maintaining connections with its sister series.