Michael Fassbender stars in Paramount+’s new spy drama THE AGENCY, playing Martian, a CIA operative returning from an extended assignment in Ethiopia. The series explores the psychological complexities of a long-time intelligence operative struggling to reintegrate into his previous life.

Fassbender’s character is defined by profound emotional compartmentalization. Having been estranged from his daughter for six years and separated from a romantic relationship in Ethiopia, Martian represents a spy whose professional life has profoundly altered his personal identity.

The actor delves into his character’s moral ambiguity, questioning how two decades in intelligence work have transformed Martian’s ethical boundaries. “What has the journey and the road done to him, and how has his moral compass been shifted?” Fassbender reflects, highlighting the character’s nuanced psychological landscape.

Central to Fassbender’s portrayal is the blurred line between truth and deception. “Lies and truth have become so merged that it’s blurry,” he explains. “You can’t tell the difference… because everything is a lie and the truth.”

THE AGENCY premieres Friday Nov 29 on Paramount+ with two episodes, followed by a linear network debut on Sunday at 9/8c.

THE AGENCY puts its spotlight on Martian (Michael Fassbender), a covert CIA agent. As the story unfolds, Martian is ordered to abandon his undercover life and return to London station. when the love he left behind reappears, romance reignites. playing Fassbender’s love interest is Jodie turner-smith.

It is through this romance that Martian’s career, real identity, and mission are pitted against his heart, hurling them both into a deadly game of international intrigue and espionage. As executive producer George Clooney says, “a guy makes one mistake: falling in love. and a lot of people get in a lot of trouble because of it.”

Featured alongside Fassbender, Clooney, and turner-smith are stars Jeffrey wright, Richard Gere, John Magaro, and Katherine Waterston. 

THE AGENCY premieres Nov 29 on Paramount+.

The highly anticipated spy drama THE AGENCY, starring Michael Fassbender, will make its streaming debut on Friday, November 29, exclusively on Paramount Plus.

The series will launch with its first two episodes, with the show initially available to US subscribers of Paramount Plus with Showtime. The series will later air on the Paramount Plus with Showtime cable channel (previously known simply as Showtime).

This announcement comes shortly after the release of the show’s first promotional images, and arrives earlier than industry expectations, which had pointed to a potential late 2024 or early 2025 premiere.

For international viewers, THE AGENCY will be available exclusively through Paramount Plus in multiple territories, including United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Italy, Germany, Latin America and Brazil.

The streaming service will be the only platform to watch the series in these regions, unlike the dual-platform release in the United States.