After more than 20 seasons, NCIS is not only famous for its thrilling cases but also becomes one of the most emotional crime series on American television. Hundreds of episodes have been aired, but there are episodes that go beyond the framework of a simple television episode to become iconic – reminiscent, haunting and leaving a deep impression on viewers.
Below is a list of the most memorable episodes of NCIS of all time, loved by both fans and experts.
1. “Twilight” (Season 2, Episode 23) – The Death of Kate Todd
The NCIS team confronts terrorist Ari Haswari. When it seems like everything is over, Kate Todd is shot and killed right in front of her teammates. This sudden death is a big shock to viewers and opens a period of tragedy – emotion – maturity for the series.
2. “Mind Games” (Season 3, Episode 3) – When the Past Never Sleeps
Gibbs comes face to face with a serial killer he once arrested. The episode is a deep psychological exploration of Gibbs, showing the heavy mental toll that cases take on those who practice justice.
3. “Judgment Day” (Season 5, Episodes 18–19) – Director Jenny Shepard’s Sacrifice
In a shootout in the desert, Jenny Shepard sacrifices herself. But what remains is the painful silence of those who remain. This is a major turning point for the NCIS organization and for the character of Gibbs, who has lost a close colleague, a friend – and maybe more.
4. “Aliyah” (Season 6, Episode 25) – When Faith Is Tested to the End
Ziva is recalled to her homeland by Mossad after Tony kills her ex to protect her teammates. This is a complex episode about love, loyalty, and forgiveness. Every look is tense, every line carries emotional weight.
5. “Truth or Consequences” (Season 7, Episode 1) – Go back and save your teammates
Tony and McGee risk their lives to infiltrate a Somali prison camp to rescue Ziva. This is one of the best season openers, showing the bond between the team members and the special bond between Tony and Ziva.
6. “Call of Silence” (Season 2, Episode 7) – When memories of war become convictions
A World War II veteran turns himself in, believing he committed murder. NCIS must investigate both evidence and emotion. The episode is quiet, gentle but profound – showing humanity in a world full of rules.
7. “Family First” (Season 13, Episode 24) – Tony leaves and the truth about Ziva
Tony discovers that Ziva died in an explosion, but she left her daughter with him. The episode concludes Tony DiNozzo’s journey with a responsible decision: to leave everything to become a father. A very NCIS farewell – unpretentious, but extremely touching.
8. “Kill Ari” (Season 3, Episodes 1–2) – Revenge, confrontation and the appearance of Ziva
After Kate’s death, Gibbs tracks down and kills Ari Haswari. This is also the first time Ziva appears – as Ari’s sister, and then as Kate’s replacement. The episode opens a new era, while clearly depicting Gibbs’ complex inner life.
9. “The Lost Boys” / “Neverland” (Season 12, Episodes 23–24) – When NCIS is hurt
A series of bombings caused by the terrorist group “The Calling” killed young agent Ned Dorneget. Gibbs was shot and seriously wounded. The episode is both high-action and a reminder that no one in the organization is immortal, and the pain of losing people is always present.
10. “Great Wide Open” (Season 19, Episode 4) – Gibbs says goodbye
No speech, no tears. Just Gibbs’ eyes looking at McGee – the person he always considered a son – and walking away quietly. That’s how Gibbs left NCIS: calm, steadfast, and without explanation. A gentle, beautiful ending, worthy of his image.
Conclusion: Episodes that make NCIS more than a crime series
Unlike many series of the same genre, NCIS touches viewers not only with investigative logic but also with emotional storytelling. The above episodes all mark something: a breakup, a loss, a journey of maturity.
And that is what makes NCIS so enduring, so timeless – so that each episode is not just a case, but a profound slice of humanity in the world of justice.
