Introduction: NCIS Is Back — But Not Quite the Way You Remember It
The wait is over — NCIS Season 23 officially has a premiere date, and fans are already buzzing. But along with the much-anticipated return comes a major schedule change that could shift your entire weekly TV lineup.
So, what exactly is different this time around? Why did CBS change things up? And what should fans expect in Season 23?
We’re breaking down everything — from the air date to the schedule changes, casting updates, storyline teases, and what it all means for the future of one of television’s most iconic crime dramas.
Let’s dive into what you really need to know before tuning in this fall.
🔹 What Is the NCIS Season 23 Premiere Date?
The official NCIS Season 23 premiere date is Monday, September 23, 2025, at 9/8c on CBS.
That’s right — the beloved naval crime procedural is sticking with its Monday night tradition for now, but that doesn’t mean the schedule remains unchanged. More on that in just a second.
🔹 What’s the Big Schedule Change?
Here’s the twist: NCIS will now serve as the lead-in for a new spin-off show, meaning its time slot shifts slightly later in the evening.
Historically airing at 8 p.m. ET/PT, NCIS will now begin at 9 p.m., immediately following the highly anticipated NCIS: Origins.
This one-hour push could mean later bedtimes for diehard fans — but CBS seems to be betting big on this new schedule format to keep Monday nights on fire.
🔹 Why Did CBS Make This Change?
Great question — and the answer’s pretty strategic.
CBS wants to create a strong NCIS programming block. With “NCIS: Origins” focusing on a young Gibbs and “NCIS” continuing its main timeline, pairing them back-to-back allows audiences to binge the universe in a single night.
This strategy mirrors what networks like NBC have done with shows like “One Chicago” or ABC with “The Bachelor” franchise.
It’s a smart play. But it also puts pressure on “NCIS” to keep viewers hooked — especially after 22 seasons.
🔹 Who’s Returning for Season 23?
Let’s get to the cast — because a show’s success hinges on its characters.
Here’s who you can expect back:
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Sean Murray as Special Agent Timothy McGee
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Wilmer Valderrama as Agent Nick Torres
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Katrina Law as Jessica Knight
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Brian Dietzen as Dr. Jimmy Palmer
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Diona Reasonover as Kasie Hines
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Gary Cole as Supervisory Special Agent Alden Parker
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Rocky Carroll as Director Leon Vance
With the recent tribute to David McCallum’s Ducky Mallard, it’s likely Season 23 will reflect more deeply on his character’s legacy, even if only in subtle references.
🔹 Is Mark Harmon Returning as Gibbs?
Let’s rip off the Band-Aid — no official confirmation has been given that Mark Harmon will return as Leroy Jethro Gibbs in Season 23.
But let’s not lose hope.
CBS has hinted at surprises in upcoming episodes, and with NCIS: Origins premiering this year, Harmon is actively narrating and producing the spin-off. So his presence, while not on-screen in the main timeline yet, is still very much felt.
Fans holding out for even a cameo? Never say never.
🔹 What Is ‘NCIS: Origins’ and How Does It Connect?
NCIS: Origins is a prequel spin-off centering on a young Gibbs during his early days with Mike Franks.
Set in the early ’90s, this show offers flashbacks, a fresh cast (with Austin Stowell as young Gibbs), and deep dives into how the legendary team leader became the man we know today.
By pushing NCIS to 9 p.m., CBS ensures both shows are watched back-to-back, enriching the entire franchise timeline.
🔹 Will Season 23 Pick Up Where Season 22 Left Off?
Yes — Season 23 is expected to continue the emotional arcs left hanging in the Season 22 finale.
Particularly:
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Torres’ inner turmoil and trauma
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McGee’s evolving leadership role
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The team coping with Ducky’s passing
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A fresh batch of Navy-centric cases
So if you thought those loose threads would just disappear, think again.
🔹 New Storylines to Expect in Season 23
Season 23 is expected to dive into:
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Psychological trauma (especially from Torres’ past)
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Evolving team dynamics after Ducky’s departure
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Advanced cyber threats and military corruption
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Potential romantic subplots (looking at you, Knight and Torres)
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A looming conspiracy arc that might span multiple episodes
So, buckle in — this won’t be a case-of-the-week kind of season.
🔹 Any New Characters Joining the Team?
No confirmed new full-time cast members — yet.
But producers teased the addition of “a recurring character with ties to Gibbs’ past.” Whether that’s a love interest, a former Marine buddy, or someone darker… we’ll just have to wait and see.
🔹 How Many Episodes Will Season 23 Have?
Early reports say Season 23 will feature a full 22-episode run — a return to form following shortened seasons during the pandemic and the WGA/SAG strikes.
That’s great news for fans who’ve been craving longer story arcs and deeper character development.
🔹 Where Can You Watch NCIS Season 23?
NCIS will air live on CBS, but here are other viewing options:
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Paramount+ (next-day streaming for subscribers)
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Hulu Live, YouTube TV, and Sling TV for live streaming
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Apple TV, Vudu, Amazon Video (for digital purchase post-airdate)
No cable? No problem.
🔹 Will Season 23 Be the Final Season?
As of now, CBS has not confirmed whether Season 23 will be the final bow.
But ratings remain strong, the spin-off universe is expanding, and fan engagement is high. So don’t count NCIS out just yet.
Still, it wouldn’t be shocking if Season 24 was shaped as a farewell — especially if Mark Harmon makes a return to tie up Gibbs’ journey.
🔹 Behind the Scenes: Who’s Running the Show Now?
David J. North and Steven D. Binder continue as showrunners for Season 23.
They’ve been instrumental in steering the show through major transitions — from the exit of Gibbs to integrating new cast members.
Their goal this season? To make “NCIS feel both classic and fresh.”
That’s no small task after 450+ episodes.
🔹 What Do Fans Think About the Time Change?
Social media is… divided.
Some fans are all in for the NCIS-Origins double feature. Others? Not thrilled about watching their favorite show an hour later.
But one thing’s for sure — this new lineup has sparked conversation, curiosity, and tons of speculation.
Mission accomplished, CBS.
Conclusion: Get Ready for a New Chapter of NCIS
Whether you’re a seasoned NCIS fan or just jumping in, Season 23 promises to be a thrilling ride. With a new time slot, deep character arcs, and a growing universe, it’s clear that CBS isn’t slowing down on its flagship crime show anytime soon.
So mark your calendar for September 23 at 9/8c, grab your popcorn, and prepare for a night filled with mystery, mayhem, and maybe a few long-awaited surprises.
FAQs
1. Will NCIS Season 23 air on Monday nights like before?
Yes, but with a twist — it now airs at 9 p.m. instead of 8 p.m., following the debut of “NCIS: Origins.”
2. Is there a trailer for NCIS Season 23?
CBS has released a short teaser, but a full-length trailer is expected in late August 2025.
3. Will there be crossover episodes with NCIS: Origins?
Not direct crossovers (due to timeline differences), but story arcs and Easter eggs will connect the shows.
4. Can I watch Season 23 without seeing previous seasons?
Technically, yes. But for full emotional payoff, it’s worth watching at least the last 2–3 seasons.
5. Are there any more NCIS spin-offs in the works?
Rumors suggest CBS is exploring ideas for another international NCIS installment — but nothing official has been announced yet.
