In a cruel twist that’s left millions of FBI fans reeling, a vicious death hoax exploded across social media overnight claiming that beloved star Zeeko Zaki – the charismatic Special Agent OA Zidan on CBS’s blockbuster procedural – had tragically passed away at just 36.The alarming headlines screamed “Actor Zeeko Zaki (FBI) passed away at the age of 36: A great loss for American television” and spread like wildfire on Facebook groups, sketchy blogs, and viral posts. Some even fabricated details about a coma or sudden illness, leaving devastated followers posting tributes, prayers, and heartbroken messages: “RIP OA… you were the heart of the show ”

But hold everything – it’s ALL completely false!

Zeeko Zaki is alive, well, and very much kicking butt on the set of FBI Season 8. The Egyptian-American actor, born January 18, 1990, is currently filming intense new scenes in Brooklyn alongside co-star Jeremy Sisto (Jubal Valentine), as confirmed by fresh paparazzi snaps and official CBS updates just weeks ago.

The hoax appears to be the latest in a sickening wave of celebrity death clickbait targeting stars of long-running procedurals like FBI. These fabricated stories lure heartbroken fans with shock-value headlines, only for the actual content (if there’s any) to pivot to unrelated show news – like renewals, time-slot changes, or cast drama.

In this case, the misleading posts linked to low-rent sites and Facebook spam that recycled old photos and invented “sources” confirming the “tragic loss.” One viral group post even claimed “representatives confirm” the death – pure fiction designed to rack up shares, likes, and ad revenue.

Zeeko Zaki smiling confidently on the red carpet – alive, thriving, and ready for more action! (Getty Images / CBS)

The Real Story: Zeeko Zaki Is Stronger Than Ever in 2026

Far from any tragedy, Zeeko is at the peak of his career. FBI – the flagship of Dick Wolf’s One Chicago empire – roared back on air in February 2026 after a midseason break, with Zeeko front and center as OA Zidan, the principled, quick-witted agent who’s become a fan-favorite for his loyalty to partner Maggie Bell (Missy Peregrym) and his unshakeable moral compass.

Recent episodes have delivered non-stop thrills: high-stakes raids, emotional team dynamics, and that signature OA intensity fans adore. Zeeko’s performance continues to shine, especially in crossovers with the new CIA spinoff starring Tom Ellis, where OA’s expertise is front and center.

Insiders tell us Zeeko is “in the best shape of his life” – both physically and professionally. He’s openly discussed his incredible 100-pound weight transformation over eight years, crediting it for giving him “a different person every year” in terms of energy and confidence. “It’s changed everything,” he shared in interviews. “I feel unstoppable.”

Off-screen, the 36-year-old keeps a relatively low profile, focusing on family, faith, and giving back. As one of the few Muslim-Egyptian leads on network TV, he’s proud of representing his heritage positively – breaking stereotypes and inspiring young viewers.

Zeeko Zaki as Special Agent OA Zidan – charging into action in a tense FBI scene! (CBS)

Why Death Hoaxes Keep Targeting FBI Stars – And How Fans Are Fighting Back

This isn’t the first time FBI cast members have been hit by fake death rumors. Similar hoaxes plagued Missy Peregrym and others in recent years, often timed around season premieres or renewals to exploit emotional investment.

The CBS multi-season pickup (through Season 9 in 2026-2027) and the franchise’s expansion – including CIA premiering strong – make the show a prime target for traffic-chasing sites. When real drama happens (like character deaths or exits), hoaxers twist it into “the actor died” lies.

Fans aren’t buying it anymore. Social media is flooded with debunkings: “Stop with the fake news! Zeeko just posted about the new season!” one commenter raged. Another shared: “He’s literally filming right now – saw set pics yesterday. These hoaxes are disgusting.”

Zeeko’s official Instagram (@zeekozaki) remains active with fun BTS glimpses, shoutouts to co-stars, and hype for upcoming episodes – the best proof he’s alive and loving life.

What Fans Can Look Forward To: More OA Action Ahead

With FBI Season 8 rolling strong on Mondays at 9/8c, Zeeko’s OA is set for major storylines. Teasers hint at personal stakes, intense partnerships, and that classic banter with Maggie. The show is also weaving in crossover magic with CIA, giving Zeeko even more screen time.

Co-stars have rallied online too: Missy Peregrym and others have liked and shared posts shutting down the rumors, while Jeremy Sisto was spotted laughing with Zeeko on location just days ago.

In a heartfelt message to fans amid the chaos, one industry insider close to the cast said: “Zeeko’s too busy living his best life to let this nonsense slow him down. He’s grateful for the love – and can’t wait for everyone to see what’s coming next.”

Zeeko Zaki and Missy Peregrym sharing laughs off-screen – the real partnership fans adore! (CBS promotional)

The Bottom Line: Don’t Believe Everything You Read – Zeeko Zaki Is Here to Stay

Celebrity death hoaxes are a plague on the internet, preying on genuine fan love to generate clicks and chaos. In Zeeko Zaki’s case, the lie couldn’t be further from the truth.

He’s not gone – he’s thriving, inspiring, and continuing to bring OA Zidan to life every week. The only thing “dead” here is the rumor itself.

To all the worried fans: breathe easy. Zeeko’s got your six – and he’s not going anywhere.

Stay tuned to CBS for more FBI thrills, and always verify shocking news through official channels. Because in a world full of fake headlines, the real story is always better: Zeeko Zaki is alive, kicking ass, and making television great.