From one-season wonders to long-lost favorites, these characters still have unfinished business.
Over its two-decade run, NCIS has introduced dozens of memorable characters — but not all of them got the send-off they deserved. While some became fan favorites, others quietly disappeared or were written off far too soon. With spin-offs like NCIS: Origins and NCIS: Sydney expanding the universe, now is the perfect time to revisit some of these overlooked gems.
Here are 10 forgotten NCIS characters who deserve a comeback in future episodes or spin-offs:
1. Lara Macy (Louise Lombard)
Why she deserves a return:
First introduced during the backdoor pilot of NCIS: Los Angeles, Macy was the no-nonsense head of the OSP team. Her off-screen murder in NCIS Season 7 was a shocking loss, especially after it was revealed she protected Gibbs by covering up his involvement in Pedro Hernandez’s death. With NCIS: Origins revisiting her backstory, Macy could return in flashbacks or prequel material to show more of her journey from military police to NCIS leader.
2. Mike Franks (Muse Watson)
Why he deserves a return:
Mike Franks was Gibbs’ mentor and a gritty voice of reason. He was killed off in Season 8 but has returned in visions and dream sequences. With NCIS: Origins diving into Gibbs’ early years, a younger Mike Franks could play a major role in shaping his character.
3. Caitlin “Kate” Todd (Sasha Alexander)
Why she deserves a return:
Kate’s shocking death in the Season 2 finale remains one of NCIS’s most gut-wrenching moments. Although her arc seemed complete, fans have always wanted to explore more of her backstory. A flashback episode — or even a cameo in Origins — could bring closure and nostalgia.
4. Paula Cassidy (Jessica Steen)
Why she deserves a return:
A fellow NCIS agent and temporary team lead, Cassidy sacrificed herself in Season 4’s heartbreaking episode “Grace Period.” Her courage and intelligence left a lasting impression, and she’s long overdue for a return in Origins or a flashback-focused special.
5. Clayton Reeves (Duane Henry)
Why he deserves a return:
British MI6 officer Reeves had charisma, heart, and promise — until he was suddenly killed in Season 15. His departure felt abrupt, and a cameo in an international NCIS storyline (maybe even NCIS: Sydney) could honor his legacy.
6. Ned Dorneget (Matt Jones)
Why he deserves a return:
Dorneget went from comic relief to undercover specialist, only to be tragically killed during a terror attack in Season 12. His bravery — and his quirky charm — made him a standout. He’d be a perfect fit in a prequel cameo or tribute episode.
7. Abigail Borin (Diane Neal)
Why she deserves a return:
Coast Guard Agent Borin was a fan favorite who matched Gibbs’ intensity and had great chemistry with the team. Her sudden disappearance from the show remains a mystery. She’d be a strong addition to NCIS: Hawaii or a special crossover event.
8. Tobias Fornell (Joe Spano)
Why he deserves a return:
Though not technically “forgotten,” Fornell has been largely absent in recent seasons. The former FBI agent and Gibbs’ best friend was part of some of the show’s most emotional storylines. Fans are hoping to see him again — even just for a final goodbye.
9. Erica Jane “EJ” Barrett (Sarah Jane Morris)
Why she deserves a return:
Once a love interest of Tony DiNozzo, EJ Barrett had a complex arc filled with espionage, betrayal, and secrets. Her story ended with little resolution. With NCIS: Tony & Ziva in development, EJ could be an intriguing wildcard in their new life.
10. Cassie Yates (Tamara Taylor)
Why she deserves a return:
Cassie Yates only appeared briefly in Season 2, but she had great chemistry with the team — and especially with Gibbs. She was poised to return but disappeared from the narrative entirely. Her reappearance could offer new dynamics in future arcs.
Final Thoughts
As NCIS continues to evolve and expand its universe, there’s a real opportunity to revisit characters who didn’t get the spotlight they deserved. Whether in flashbacks, prequels, or reunions, these forgotten figures still have stories left to tell.
