While NCIS: New Orleans will end with Season 7, CBS is considering another series in the procedural franchise, NCIS: Hawaii. This time around, though, characters might not be introduced as a backdoor pilot on another show, according to Deadline. In the past, JAG‘s Season 8 episodes “Ice Queen” and “Meltdown” included guest spots from Mark Harmon (Leroy Jethro Gibbs), Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo), David McCallum (Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard), and Pauley Perrette (Abby Sciuto), all of whom went on to star on NCIS.
Los Angeles‘ Chris O’Donnell (Callen), LL Cool J (Sam Hanna), Daniela Ruah (Kensi Blye), Peter Cambor (Nate Getz), and Barrett Foa (Eric Beale) appeared in NCIS Season 6’s two-parter “Legend.” And we first met New Orleans‘ Scott Bakula (Dwayne Pride), Lucas Black (Christopher Lasalle), Zoe McLellan (Meredith Brody), and CCH Pounder (Dr. Loretta Wade) in NCIS Season 11’s two-parter “Crescent City.”
NCIS: LA was used to introduce the potential Red spinoff in Season 4, with guest stars John Corbett (Roy Haines), Kim Raver (Paris Summerskill), Scott Grimes (Dave Flynn), Edwin Hodge (Kai Ashe), Gillian Alexy (Claire Keats), and Kenneth Mitchell (Danny Gallagher) as the mobile team. That was never ordered to series, though Grimes’ Flynn has appeared on LA on his own to help out the team since.
Is a backdoor pilot necessary, especially in a franchise as successful as NCIS and when something like production and scheduling could be a factor right now due to the pandemic? Probably not. Sure, this potential series would be set on the island, but by now, viewers know what to expect from one of these shows. There is something unique about each — for example, you know you’ll get plenty of explosions on NCIS: Los Angeles — but they’re all still procedurals and Hawaii would have a home-base, unlike Red, the premise of which would have made it a bit different. Have Director Vance (Rocky Carroll) from NCIS video in early on and that could be enough to connect the series to the rest of the franchise.
The NCIS universe is no stranger to expansion. With the successes of NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans, fans and insiders alike are buzzing with one question: Should a new NCIS spinoff set in Hawaii be introduced through a backdoor pilot? It’s an idea that seems both bold and beautiful. But is it genius or just another attempt to stretch a franchise past its golden age? Let’s dive deep into the waves of possibility and uncover whether a tropical twist is just what the NCIS brand needs.
What Is a Backdoor Pilot, Anyway?
The Stealthy Spinoff Strategy
A backdoor pilot is essentially an episode of a current series that introduces new characters and storylines to test the waters for a potential new show. It’s like sneaking in a first date during a family dinner—clever, but risky.
NCIS Has Used This Trick Before
Did you know NCIS itself was a backdoor pilot from JAG? That move kickstarted a juggernaut. Now, using the same method could be poetic… or repetitive.
Why Hawaii?
Scenic, Strategic, and Story-Rich
Hawaii isn’t just a vacation hotspot—it’s a strategic military location with bases like Pearl Harbor, giving it perfect synergy with NCIS’s core naval investigation theme.
A Cinematic Paradise
Imagine high-stakes criminal investigations with palm trees in the background. Hawaii offers a visual aesthetic that’s both cinematic and unique within the NCIS world.
Would It Work as a Backdoor Pilot?
Built-in Audience Boost
NCIS already pulls in millions weekly. A backdoor pilot would ensure instant exposure, skipping the awkward introduction phase most new shows face.
Familiar Faces, New Frontiers
By integrating existing NCIS agents into a Hawaiian storyline, the transition would feel organic—like a family reunion in paradise.
The Pros of a Hawaiian NCIS Spinoff
Expanding the NCIS Universe
Hawaii would provide fresh turf—both literally and narratively. Think of it as adding a new flavor to an already successful recipe.
Strong Cultural & Military Ties
The islands offer a deep cultural history and an international military presence—ideal for layered, intriguing investigations.
Diverse Cast Opportunities
Representation matters. Hawaii’s multicultural demographics would allow the franchise to showcase diversity authentically.
The Cons of Going Hawaiian
Franchise Fatigue
Too many spinoffs risk diluting the original brand. Viewers might feel overwhelmed or skeptical.
Budget Blowouts
Filming in Hawaii isn’t cheap. Scenic views come at a cost, and those production dollars can stack fast.
Story Saturation
Can NCIS keep the storytelling fresh? Or would it just be another beachside whodunit?
Lessons from Previous NCIS Spinoffs
NCIS: Los Angeles – A Hit That Found Its Groove
NCIS: LA took time to cement its identity but became a mainstay thanks to solid character arcs and slick action.
NCIS: New Orleans – Culture-Rich but Canceled
Despite its flavorful setting, NCIS: New Orleans didn’t survive the long haul, reminding us that setting alone isn’t enough.
Casting Considerations — Who Should Lead?
Familiar or Fresh Faces?
Should the spinoff bring back fan-favorite agents or introduce a whole new crew? Casting choices could make or break the launch.
Representation Matters
Bringing in Native Hawaiian characters and actors could enrich storylines and authenticity.
What Social Media Thinks
Fans Are Torn
Some fans are excited about the tropical upgrade; others worry it’s one spinoff too many.
“If NCIS goes to Hawaii, I’m in. As long as they don’t mess with the formula.” — @NCISFanDaily
Behind the Scenes — CBS’s Strategic Thinking
Network Needs & Streaming Goals
With traditional TV battling streaming giants, CBS needs reliable IPs like NCIS to anchor viewership. A Hawaii spinoff could serve dual purposes: live TV ratings + streaming binge bait.
Audience Demographics Favor Expansion
Multi-Generational Appeal
NCIS appeals to both Gen X and Boomers. A Hawaii-based twist might bring in Gen Z with its visual flair and tropical intrigue.
What Would Success Look Like?
Ratings, Reviews, and Renewals
A successful pilot would need more than curiosity clicks. It would need heart, tension, and characters who stick.
What Might the Backdoor Pilot Look Like?
Plot Possibility
Picture this: The NCIS team is sent to Hawaii for a joint investigation. There, they meet a local naval unit facing an internal security breach—led by a magnetic new lead agent.
Does NCIS Need a Spinoff Right Now?
Strategic or Desperate?
Is this a smart pivot to keep the brand fresh—or a signal that NCIS is running out of steam?
Final Verdict — Should They Do It?
The idea of introducing NCIS: Hawaii through a backdoor pilot is both strategic and nostalgic. It harkens back to how this franchise started and could be the shot in the arm it needs to stay relevant.
If done right—with authentic casting, smart writing, and a fresh tone—this could be the franchise’s next great wave.
Conclusion
To answer the big question: Yes, NCIS should absolutely consider a Hawaii-based spinoff introduced via a backdoor pilot. The strategy has historical success, Hawaii offers a rich setting, and the franchise is ripe for reinvention. But it all hinges on execution. Get the story, cast, and tone right—and CBS could have its next primetime powerhouse.
