🧠 From Assistant to Autopsy Boss — Jimmy Palmer’s Rise Is One of TV’s Most Underrated Arcs 🧠
When Brian Dietzen first appeared as Jimmy Palmer back in Season 1 of NCIS, he was simply “the assistant” — the nerdy, awkward sidekick to Ducky. No one imagined that 20 years later, Palmer would be one of the most beloved and emotionally rich characters in the entire franchise.
Through tragedy, growth, and perseverance, Palmer has transformed into the emotional heartbeat of the team. From losing his wife during the pandemic to becoming a single father, Jimmy’s story has resonated with fans across generations. And Brian Dietzen’s quiet, consistent brilliance has not gone unnoticed. In fact, he’s not just acting anymore — Dietzen co-wrote multiple episodes in recent seasons, earning praise for both his performance and his pen.
“Jimmy Palmer is the most human character on NCIS,” one fan posted recently. “He hurts, he heals, and he still shows up every day.”
Dietzen’s rise has been slow but steady, and it’s proof that you don’t have to shout to be heard. Sometimes, all it takes is heart — and Jimmy Palmer has plenty of it.
