After over two decades on the air, NCIS is still going strong — and fans now have every reason to celebrate. CBS has officially confirmed some major news regarding Season 23, and it’s clear the long-running crime procedural is far from slowing down. With a few surprises, familiar faces, and a hint of fresh direction, this season is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in years.
Let’s dive into everything we know so far about NCIS Season 23 — from cast updates to premiere dates and behind-the-scenes changes
Season 23 Is Officially a Go
CBS has officially renewed NCIS for Season 23, making it one of the longest-running scripted dramas in U.S. television history. The renewal wasn’t just expected — it was demanded by the show’s fiercely loyal fanbase.
Premiere Date Confirmed
Mark Your Calendars
CBS has announced that NCIS Season 23 will premiere in Fall 2025, with the official premiere date set for Monday, September 22 at 9/8c. It will continue to air in its familiar Monday night slot, following NCIS: Hawai’i.
What Will Season 23 Be About?
Bigger Emotional Arcs
Showrunners have teased that Season 23 will dig deeper into character development, continuing to explore themes of grief, growth, and purpose, especially in the wake of major shifts in the team dynamic over the past few seasons.
New Long-Term Storyline
Fans can expect a new serialized subplot stretching across the entire season — a move that mirrors the format of recent seasons and adds more suspense and emotional investment to the weekly cases.
Who’s Coming Back?
The Core Team Returns
Confirmed to return for Season 23 are:
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Sean Murray as Timothy McGee
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Wilmer Valderrama as Nick Torres
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Katrina Law as Jessica Knight
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Gary Cole as Alden Parker
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Diona Reasonover as Kasie Hines
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Brian Dietzen as Dr. Jimmy Palmer
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Rocky Carroll as Director Vance
Mark Harmon — Could He Return?
While Mark Harmon (Leroy Jethro Gibbs) has remained off-screen since his exit in Season 19, showrunners have not ruled out a return. Rumors continue to swirl about a potential guest appearance — or even a surprise return for the series’ 500th episode, which is coming up soon.
New Cast Members & Guest Stars
Fresh Faces
Season 23 will reportedly introduce a new junior field agent, bringing a fresh perspective and possibly setting the stage for the next generation of NCIS.
Big-Name Guest Stars
Producers have teased appearances by several well-known actors, including a former cast member from NCIS: Los Angeles. This kind of crossover energy is something fans have been begging for — and now, it’s happening.
Behind-the-Scenes Updates
Showrunners Return
David North and Steven D. Binder are returning as showrunners, ensuring continuity in tone, structure, and character arcs.
More Crossovers?
There are strong hints of a larger NCIS universe crossover, possibly including characters from NCIS: Hawai’i or even NCIS: Sydney, CBS’s newest international spinoff.
Ongoing Storylines That Will Continue
Torres’ Redemption Arc
After Torres’ intense Season 22 journey — including time undercover and confronting past trauma — Season 23 will reportedly see him try to rebuild his identity and relationships.
McGee’s Leadership Role
As one of the longest-serving agents, McGee’s role continues to evolve. In Season 23, expect him to struggle with leadership, legacy, and family life balance — a theme that’s been slowly building.
Will Anyone Leave in Season 23?
No Official Exits (Yet)
While no major departures have been announced, insiders suggest Season 23 could mark a “transitional year” for at least one main cast member. This has fans speculating that a longtime character — possibly McGee — could be written out or shift roles by the season’s end.
NCIS Ratings — Still a Powerhouse
Even in Season 22, NCIS remained one of CBS’s top-rated scripted dramas, averaging over 9 million live viewers per episode and even more on streaming. The show has successfully adapted to modern viewing habits, keeping both older and younger fans engaged.
What’s New in Season 23 Production?
Shorter Season, Bigger Impact
CBS has confirmed that Season 23 will feature 18 episodes, slightly fewer than in earlier years, but with tighter storytelling and more emotional weight packed into each one.
Upgraded Tech and Visuals
Expect enhanced visuals, updated crime lab tech, and even new locations — including more on-location filming to increase authenticity and immersion.
What Makes This Season Stand Out?
Legacy + Evolution
Season 23 promises to honor the show’s deep legacy while continuing to evolve with fresh characters, updated themes, and smarter plots. It’s a delicate balance — and NCIS is showing it still knows how to walk that line.
📣 Conclusion: NCIS Season 23 — A New Chapter Begins
Season 23 is shaping up to be more than just another year of solving cases — it’s a strategic blend of nostalgia, innovation, and emotional storytelling. With a solid cast, new additions, and just enough mystery, NCIS continues to prove why it’s one of TV’s most enduring giants.
Whether you’re a day-one fan or just catching up, Season 23 promises something for everyone — and it’s almost here.
❓FAQs About NCIS Season 23
1. When does NCIS Season 23 premiere?
NCIS Season 23 premieres on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 9/8c on CBS.
2. Will Mark Harmon return as Gibbs in Season 23?
There’s no official confirmation, but rumors strongly suggest a potential guest appearance.
3. How many episodes will Season 23 have?
CBS has confirmed 18 episodes for Season 23.
4. Are there any crossovers planned for Season 23?
Yes! Producers have hinted at crossovers with NCIS: Hawai’i and possibly NCIS: Sydney.
5. Is NCIS ending anytime soon?
Absolutely not — the franchise remains strong, and Season 23 shows no signs of being the last.
