Let’s be honest—NCIS has been a staple on TV screens for over two decades. It’s the kind of show that became part of the furniture: dependable, action-packed, and always there. But in recent years, fans have started asking a tough question: Have NCIS ratings dropped? Spoiler alert: Yes, they have. But the full picture is a bit more complex. In this article, we’ll break down the ratings trends, the reasons behind the dip, and what it all means for the future of NCIS. So grab a coffee, because we’re diving deep.
What Do the Numbers Say About NCIS Ratings?
A Steady Decline Since the Peak
NCIS peaked in the early 2010s, regularly drawing in over 20 million live viewers per episode. But fast-forward to 2024, and we’re looking at just under 7 million live viewers on average. That’s a significant drop—but it’s not just about NCIS.
Not Alone in the Fall
It’s worth noting that network TV as a whole is declining. Viewership across the board is shifting to streaming platforms, DVR, and on-demand apps. In that context, NCIS is still doing relatively well. It’s like being the tallest person on a shrinking island.
Why Are NCIS Ratings Going Down?
The Gibbs Effect
When Mark Harmon (Leroy Jethro Gibbs) left the show in Season 19, many longtime fans followed him out the door. His character was the glue holding everything together, and no one has quite filled that void since.
Franchise Fatigue Is Real
Let’s be honest—after 20+ seasons, even the most die-hard fans can feel a little worn out. Characters come and go, plotlines sometimes recycle, and it becomes hard to keep the excitement alive.
Changing Viewer Habits
Most people no longer watch shows live. Instead, they stream them days—or even weeks—after release. That shift doesn’t always reflect in live Nielsen ratings, which many networks still rely on.
Spin-Off Overload or Strategic Expansion?
Too Many NCIS Shows?
At one point, fans had NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, NCIS: Hawaiʻi, and now NCIS: Sydney and the upcoming NCIS: Origins. That’s a lot. Even McDonald’s doesn’t open that many franchises that fast.
Cannibalizing Its Own Audience
Every time a new spinoff launches, it pulls attention and resources from the flagship show. Some fans even say they’re tired of trying to keep up with them all.
How the Current Cast Is Affecting Viewership
A New-Look Team
The current lineup has talent, no doubt. But many viewers still miss the old team—Tony, Ziva, Abby, and of course, Gibbs. The show feels different now, and not everyone is on board with the new vibe.
Building Chemistry Takes Time
To be fair, it took several seasons for the original team to build the chemistry fans fell in love with. Maybe the new crew just needs more time—but time might not be something they have.
The Role of Streaming and Global Audiences
NCIS on Paramount+ and Beyond
While live ratings are down, NCIS is doing very well on streaming platforms like Paramount+ and internationally via syndication. In fact, it remains one of the most-watched procedural shows worldwide.
Streaming Isn’t Counted the Same
Unfortunately, many traditional rating systems don’t fully factor in streaming views—meaning NCIS could be more successful than the numbers suggest.
Behind the Curtain: Network Decisions and Renewals
CBS Still Believes in NCIS—for Now
Even with the ratings drop, NCIS remains one of CBS’s top-performing dramas. That’s why the network continues to renew it while canceling others (RIP NCIS: Hawaiʻi).
But The Clock Is Ticking
With rising production costs and a competitive market, even legacy shows like NCIS aren’t immune to cancellation if things dip too low.
Is It Time to Call It Quits?
Fans Are Split
Some viewers think it’s time to wrap things up while the show still has dignity. Others believe NCIS still has stories to tell—as long as it can evolve.
The Problem with Long Runners
When a show runs this long, it risks becoming a parody of itself. Jokes get recycled, and suspense starts to fade. That can turn off both old and new fans.
What Could Turn the Ratings Around?
Bring Back Familiar Faces
Fans would love to see a cameo from Tony, Ziva, or even a guest appearance by Gibbs. Nostalgia is powerful—and CBS knows it.
Revamp the Formula
Maybe it’s time for riskier storytelling, serialized arcs, or even a bold crossover. The show needs to shake things up to stay relevant.
What the Fans Are Saying
Social Media Is a Mixed Bag
Some fans praise the current direction, while others threaten to stop watching altogether. Hashtags like #NCISForever and #BringBackGibbs show how passionate the fanbase still is.
Final Verdict — Have NCIS Ratings Dropped?
Yes, they have. But let’s not panic just yet. Every show declines over time—especially one that’s been on the air for more than 20 years. The real question isn’t whether ratings have dropped—it’s whether CBS can adapt and evolve the franchise to survive in a streaming-dominated world.
Conclusion: Is NCIS Still Worth Watching?
Absolutely—if you’re a fan of crime procedurals, compelling characters, and a dose of nostalgia. But it’s also clear that the show is at a crossroads. Whether it rises again or quietly fades into TV history depends on what CBS, the writers, and the fans decide to do next.
The heart of NCIS still beats—but it’s definitely time for a check-up.
