If you’re like most die-hard NCIS fans, you’ve probably asked yourself: “When is NCIS coming back?” With cliffhangers from Season 22 still fresh in our minds and speculation swirling online, we’re here to clear the air. From confirmed return dates to surprising schedule changes, this article gives you everything you need to know about NCIS Season 23.
Buckle up. We’ve got juicy intel straight from behind the scenes, plus some exciting updates on cast changes, episode rumors, and how CBS is reshuffling your Monday night lineup.
What Is the Official Return Date for NCIS Season 23?
CBS Confirms NCIS Season 23 Premiere
After months of silence, CBS has officially confirmed that NCIS Season 23 will premiere in Fall 2025. The exact return date? Monday, September 22, 2025, at 9:00 PM ET/PT. That’s right, mark that calendar now!
Delay Explained – Why the Wait?
While many fans expected a summer release or an earlier air date, the delay stemmed from a mix of factors:
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Production slowdowns due to industry strikes in early 2025
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Post-production editing to finalize story arcs
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Network reshuffling to maximize prime-time ratings
It’s all part of a bigger plan to relaunch NCIS with maximum impact.
What’s Changing This Season? The New Schedule Twist
NCIS Moves Time Slot – Again
Here’s the twist: NCIS is moving from its traditional 8 PM slot to 9 PM on Mondays. Why the change? CBS is experimenting with audience flow, putting a new crime drama before NCIS to warm up viewership.
Competing Shows Are Forcing CBS to Adapt
NBC and ABC are dropping big shows in the same time slot. CBS is betting on NCIS’s loyal fanbase to stick with it—even with a one-hour shift.
What Can Fans Expect in Season 23?
More Mystery, More Action, More Emotion
Season 23 promises to dig deeper into character arcs while amping up the tension. Think less procedural and more serialized storylines. Think emotional flashbacks. Think personal stakes.
Fan Theories Are Already Flying
From Reddit threads to YouTube breakdowns, fans are predicting:
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A long-lost character may return (hint: Ziva)
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A shocking death in the premiere episode
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Gibbs might finally reappear—but with a twist
Who’s Coming Back? Cast Updates & Surprises
Returning Main Cast Members
Here’s the good news: most of your favorites are returning, including:
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Sean Murray (McGee)
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Wilmer Valderrama (Torres)
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Katrina Law (Knight)
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Gary Cole (Parker)
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Any New Characters?
Yes! Rumors say two new recurring characters will join the team—one from British intelligence and one tech-savvy analyst who’s younger and a bit of a wildcard.
Will Mark Harmon (Gibbs) Return?
This is the million-dollar question. CBS remains tight-lipped, but insiders hint that Gibbs may appear in a special episode mid-season. Possibly a two-part arc.
Behind the Scenes – What the Crew Is Saying
Writers Are Going Bigger This Season
NCIS writers have promised a “fresh narrative direction.” That likely means:
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Longer story arcs
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Emotional payoffs
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More backstory reveals
Interviews Tease “Game-Changing Moments”
In a recent podcast, showrunner Steven D. Binder said Season 23 would “redefine the future of NCIS.” Bold words. We’re here for it.
How Many Episodes Will There Be?
Expect a Full Season (Finally)
After the strike-shortened Season 22, Season 23 will bring back the full 22-episode format. That’s nearly 5 months of weekly suspense, drama, and Gibbs-level stare-downs.
The Bigger NCIS Universe – What’s Happening Elsewhere?
Spin-Offs in Motion
CBS is doubling down on the NCIS brand:
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NCIS: Sydney is filming Season 2
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NCIS: Hawai’i is officially canceled, but a few characters may cross over
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A young Gibbs prequel series is still in early development
Where to Watch NCIS Season 23
Traditional & Streaming Options
You can catch new episodes:
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Live on CBS every Monday at 9 PM ET/PT
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Next-day streaming on Paramount+
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Amazon Prime and Apple TV will have them available a week later (for purchase)
Pro Tips for Staying Updated
Never Miss an Episode
Want to stay ahead of the crowd?
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Set calendar alerts
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Follow @NCIS_CBS on Twitter/X
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Subscribe to YouTube fan breakdown channels
What This Means for Longtime Fans
This season isn’t just another year. It’s a return to roots and a leap into the future. Season 23 is shaping up to be the most emotional, daring, and fan-service-heavy season we’ve seen in years.
Conclusion – The Wait Is Almost Over
So, when will NCIS return for Season 23? Monday, September 22, 2025, at 9 PM. With big cast returns, emotional storytelling, and a schedule reshuffle, it’s clear CBS is betting big on their flagship series.
Get ready for jaw-dropping moments, nostalgic callbacks, and a season that’s determined to remind you why you fell in love with NCIS in the first place.
❓FAQs
1. Will Season 23 be the last season of NCIS?
There’s no official confirmation, but CBS execs have hinted that more seasons are possible, especially with strong ratings.
2. Why did NCIS move to 9 PM?
CBS is testing a new programming strategy to increase viewership across the board. It’s a risky move, but one backed by data.
3. Is Gibbs coming back in Season 23?
There’s strong speculation about a guest appearance, but nothing is 100% confirmed yet.
4. Will all episodes be available on Paramount+?
Yes, every new episode will stream the next day on Paramount+.
5. How many episodes will NCIS Season 23 have?
Expect a full 22-episode season, barring any production delays.
Thanks for reading, agent. We’ll see you back at HQ on Monday nights! 🕵️♂️
Now, gear up—Season 23 is going to be explosive. 💥
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