đź’Ą Introduction: When Skipping Feels Like Self-Care
Let’s be honest—NCIS has over 450 episodes across 20+ seasons, and not all of them are gems. If you’ve ever hit “Next Episode” faster than Gibbs can slap a head, you’re not alone. Whether it’s a clunky plot, awkward character arcs, or just plain boring storylines, some episodes don’t deserve a second watch. This list breaks down 10 NCIS episodes that I—and many other fans—just can’t sit through again.
We’re diving deep into what makes these episodes skippable, even for the most loyal of fans. So grab your Caf-Pow, because we’re about to dissect the dead weight.
1. “Requiem” (Season 5, Episode 7)
Why It’s Skippable: Overhyped and Overdone
This episode often gets praised for the emotional tension between Gibbs and the memory of his daughter, but it leans so hard into the melodrama that it ends up feeling forced. The underwater rescue scene? Cool the first time, eye-roll the second.
2. “Bounce” (Season 6, Episode 16)
Why It’s Skippable: Tony Takes the Lead—and Not in a Good Way
It’s one of the rare episodes where Tony runs point, but the episode drags. It tries to show his growth, but it ends up rehashing an old case with low energy and little payoff.
3. “Anonymous Was a Woman” (Season 11, Episode 4)
Why It’s Skippable: Heavy-Handed and Unbalanced
The topic of immigration and human trafficking is serious, no doubt. But this episode gets bogged down by moral messaging and forgets it’s a crime procedural. It feels more like a PSA than NCIS.
4. “Alibi” (Season 11, Episode 8)
Why It’s Skippable: Predictable and Plodding
The premise had promise—defense attorney walks into NCIS to confess—but it quickly fizzles. The twists feel like they were borrowed from a rejected Law & Order script.
5. “Being Bad” (Season 14, Episode 2)
Why It’s Skippable: High School Flashbacks? Pass.
This one feels like a filler episode in every sense. A buried body at a high school reunion? It plays out like an after-school special meets Scooby-Doo mystery. Not the NCIS intensity we tune in for.
6. “Once Upon a Tim” (Season 16, Episode 14)
Why It’s Skippable: Tim McGee’s Past Isn’t That Interesting
We love McGee, but do we need an entire episode digging into his high school hacker days? The story lacks urgency, and the flashbacks come off as gimmicky rather than nostalgic.
7. “The Arizona” (Season 17, Episode 20)
Why It’s Skippable: Emotional But Out of Sync
While the late Christopher Lloyd delivers a touching performance, this episode feels like it belongs in a different show. It’s heartwarming, sure, but doesn’t feel like NCIS—and not in a good way.
8. “The B-Team” (Season 15, Episode 18)
Why It’s Skippable: Comedy That Misses the Mark
This one tries to be quirky and lighthearted by focusing on a backup team that assists NCIS agents. But the jokes fall flat, and it lacks the suspense we expect from an NCIS episode.
9. “The Tie That Binds” (Season 14, Episode 10)
Why It’s Skippable: Ducky’s Backstory Deserved Better
Everyone wanted more Ducky—but this wasn’t it. Instead of digging deep into his mysterious past, the episode offers a lukewarm inheritance mystery that ultimately goes nowhere.
10. “She” (Season 16, Episode 13)
Why It’s Skippable: Bishop as Ziva? Nope.
This episode teased a Ziva comeback, but instead, it felt like a bait-and-switch. Bishop steps into the spotlight and tries to fill Ziva’s shoes, but it ends up reminding us just how much we miss the real thing.
The Common Thread: Why These Episodes Don’t Hold Up
Lack of Stakes
Many of these episodes feel like they’re just going through the motions—no real danger, no real payoff.
Character Arcs That Go Nowhere
Some episodes tease emotional growth or big revelations but ultimately fizzle out by the end credits.
Unbalanced Tone
NCIS is at its best when it balances dark crime stories with humor and heart. These episodes? Too heavy, too goofy, or just too bland.
NCIS Is a Juggernaut—But Even Giants Stumble
Let’s not forget—NCIS is one of the longest-running dramas on TV, which is no small feat. But with a show that spans decades, some episodes are bound to miss the mark. And that’s okay! What matters is recognizing what doesn’t work and appreciating the many episodes that do.
How to Curate the Perfect Rewatch Playlist
If you’re ready to trim the fat on your next NCIS binge, here’s a pro tip: stick to episodes that either advance character arcs, feature memorable guest stars, or contain clever twists you didn’t see coming. Those are the stories that stick.
Honorable Mentions: Almost Made the Cut
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“Thirst” (Season 9, Episode 6) – Serial killer love story? Nah.
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“Seek” (Season 10, Episode 18) – The dog episode. Sweet, but skip-worthy.
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“Squall” (Season 10, Episode 19) – Bad weather, worse pacing.
What Makes an NCIS Episode Rewatchable?
It’s not just the case—it’s the chemistry between the team, the banter, and the build-up. It’s when you know what happens and still want to watch it again. Sadly, the episodes listed above just don’t fit that mold.
Don’t Feel Guilty About Skipping
Skipping episodes doesn’t make you less of a fan—it makes you a smart one. Just like we fast-forward commercials, we can fast-forward past the fluff. Life’s too short to waste it on a boring procedural.
Conclusion: Know What Deserves Your Time
So there you have it—10 NCIS episodes that just don’t deserve a spot in your rewatch rotation. Whether they missed the emotional mark, bored us with weak plots, or simply didn’t feel like NCIS, they’re best left in the vault. Keep your rewatches tight, engaging, and filled with the kind of storytelling that made us all fall in love with the series in the first place.
FAQs
1. Why do some NCIS episodes feel so different in tone?
The show occasionally experiments with tone, especially when dealing with emotional or topical storylines. Sometimes it hits, sometimes it misses.
2. Should I watch every episode if I’m new to NCIS?
Not necessarily. Start with key story arcs or fan-favorite episodes to get hooked before diving into the full catalog.
3. Are there NCIS filler episodes I can skip without missing major plot points?
Absolutely. Many of the skippable episodes listed here don’t impact the overarching storylines or character development.
4. What season of NCIS is the most consistent?
Season 4 through Season 10 are often praised as NCIS’s golden years for consistency, character growth, and strong plots.
5. Is it disrespectful to skip emotional episodes?
Not at all. Every fan connects with episodes differently. Some emotional episodes feel profound, while others feel manipulative. Watch what resonates with you.
