Jay Hayden Discusses Onscreen Chemistry with Real-Life Friend Jesse Lee Soffer in FBI: International Season 4

Jay Hayden Discusses Onscreen Chemistry with Real-Life Friend Jesse Lee Soffer in FBI: International Season 4

Warning: Contains SPOILERS for FBI: International season 4, episode 7. The latest episode of FBI: International, titled “Keen as a Bean,”premiered on December 10, introducing viewers to a new addition in the Fly Team. Wes’ former colleague, Tyler Booth, arrives seeking assistance with a case linked to Ed Haskins, an ex-police officer who has made it onto America’s “Most Wanted”list. Haskins is notorious for blackmailing fellow officers with sensitive and often fabricated images, leading to tragic outcomes, including multiple police suicides. As Wes steps into a leadership role, Tyler finds it challenging to accept his authority.

Throughout the episode, tensions rise as the two characters navigate their differences; however, they ultimately manage to collaborate effectively to resolve the case. Tyler has been assigned to the Fly Team for a 90-day period, but Jay Hayden hints that Tyler’s presence is poised to complicate Wes’ leadership. Hayden expresses enthusiasm about the dynamic between Tyler and Wes, likening it to the camaraderie he shares with Jesse Lee Soffer, another long-time friend and co-star. With Csonka’s return in FBI: International’s fall finale, fans can expect further challenges to arise in their evolving relationship.

Tyler’s Challenges to the Fly Team Leader in Season 4

“He’s not doing things the same way as his ex-partner, and that’s a lesson he must learn.”

Booth running in FBI: International season 4, episode 7

ScreenRant: Given your real friendship with Jesse Lee Soffer, what aspect of your dynamic on FBI: International excites you the most?

Jay Hayden: It was honestly a relief to see in the scripts that our characters have a playful rivalry. Being able to infuse our real-life friendship into the scenes adds an extra layer of authenticity. I didn’t expect to share the screen with a close friend—it was surreal! Our first scene together was particularly hilarious; we broke character several times just from looking at each other. Having someone on set who understands your comedic timing and acting style makes a huge difference.

Jay Hayden: Taking on Tyler Booth is refreshing for me as it contrasts sharply with the altruistic characters I’ve portrayed in the past. Unlike the universally-loved characters I’m accustomed to, Tyler often operates outside the law and isn’t always the most trustworthy team member. It’s thrilling to navigate that darker side; when I walked onto the set of FBI: International, not everyone cheered!

What sets Tyler apart from Wes, especially regarding his treatment of Kelsey?

Jay Hayden: Tyler’s approach is decidedly more aggressive, fueled by a lack of patience for the law. While Wes embodies the characteristics of a great leader, Tyler’s methods reflect why he hasn’t yet achieved the same rank. It’s imperative for him to adapt to Wes’ leadership style, but whether he will is still uncertain. This ongoing struggle is sure to create tension as events unfold.

Potential Negative Influence of Tyler on Wes in the Fall Finale

“Now he has someone whispering, ‘Whatever it takes is whatever it takes. Who cares? No one’s going to know.’”

The Fly Team in FBI: International season 4, episode 7

How does Tyler’s relationship with his daughter reveal a different facet of his character?

Jay Hayden: Tyler’s connection with his daughter is profound and shows his vulnerable side. Although he can be brash and impulsive, his motivations are pure—he’d go to any lengths to safeguard her. His dynamic with his daughter, especially moments where she offers him advice, allows the audience to see the depth of his character. She helps ground him in critical moments.

Do you think Wes’s relationship with Booth influences his judgment?

Jay Hayden: Absolutely. Their history as partners creates a conflict as they now occupy different roles. Even though their titles have changed, the interplay between them remains complicated, which is bound to lead to clashes in leadership and judgment as the series progresses.

Season 4 Will Showcase Tyler’s Tensions with Smitty

“Viewers will witness how their relationship unfolds.”

Smitty looking at Booth in FBI: International season 4, episode 7

Is there a specific character with whom Tyler has particularly heated interactions?

Jay Hayden: Yes, definitely. The clashes between Smitty and Booth will become significant plot points to watch out for as the season unfolds.

About CBS’ Procedural Drama FBI: International

Created by Derek Haas and Dick Wolf

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Produced by Emmy Award winner Dick Wolf, FBI: International is the third installment in the popular FBI franchise. This series follows the elite agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s International Fly Team, stationed in Budapest. Their mission is to track and neutralize threats facing American citizens abroad, often risking their lives in the process.

  • Christina Wolfe
  • Jesse Lee Soffer
  • Roxy Sternberg
  • Shantel VanSanten

Tune in to FBI: International season 4 every Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on CBS or stream it on Paramount+ the following day.

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