Introduction: The NCIS Universe Is Big—But It’s Not the Only Game in Town
If you’ve spent countless hours watching Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs lead his elite team on NCIS, you’re probably not ready to move on. But here’s the thing: there’s a whole world of gripping procedural dramas and character-driven crime shows that deliver the same thrills, twists, and emotional depth.
Whether you’re craving more military intrigue, tight-knit investigative teams, or that perfect blend of action and heart, this list has you covered. These are the 10 most crucial shows to watch if you love NCIS—handpicked to keep your binge streak alive.
✅ Why NCIS Fans Need Something Similar
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about why you might be seeking another show like NCIS:
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You crave team-based investigations with strong chemistry.
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You love episodic crimes with a deeper storyline threading it all together.
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You want a mix of tactical action and human emotion.
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You miss Gibbs, Abby, Tony, and Ziva… we get it.
Sound like you? Then read on.
1. Criminal Minds – Profiling the Mind Behind the Crime
Why It’s a Must:
Where NCIS is about solving crimes involving the Navy, Criminal Minds dives deep into behavioral analysis and the twisted psychology of serial offenders. The FBI’s BAU team becomes your second family.
Similar Vibes:
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Intense cases
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Smart, loyal team dynamic
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Character backstories evolve over time
Bonus: Dr. Spencer Reid’s brain is a national treasure.
2. NCIS: Los Angeles – The West Coast Action Upgrade
Why It’s a Must:
This one’s a no-brainer. NCIS: Los Angeles takes the familiar format and adds high-speed car chases, undercover missions, and spy-level suspense.
Similar Vibes:
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Still part of the NCIS universe
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More action, high-tech ops
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Tight partner dynamics: Sam and Callen = bromance goals
3. Blue Bloods – Family Meets Justice
Why It’s a Must:
If you loved the moral backbone of Gibbs, you’ll appreciate the Reagan family’s commitment to justice. Led by Tom Selleck, this NYPD family drama adds depth and tradition to the police procedural formula.
Similar Vibes:
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Law enforcement through a family lens
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Weekly cases + long-form character development
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Powerful dinner table scenes, always
4. Bones – Science + Wit + FBI Crime Solving
Why It’s a Must:
Bones serves forensic science in spades, paired with a quirky cast and the slow-burn romance between Booth and Brennan. It balances gore, humor, and heart like no other.
Similar Vibes:
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Federal agents with strong personalities
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Weekly crimes to solve
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Undeniable chemistry between leads
5. The Blacklist – A Criminal Who Outsmarts the FBI
Why It’s a Must:
James Spader’s performance as Raymond “Red” Reddington is downright legendary. Imagine NCIS flipped upside down, where a criminal becomes the key to solving bigger crimes.
Similar Vibes:
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Mystery arcs that stretch seasons
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Secrets, betrayals, and complex loyalties
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Stylish, clever writing
6. FBI – Fast-Paced and Fiercely Patriotic
Why It’s a Must:
This Dick Wolf production delivers high-stakes cases, timely themes, and strong ensemble chemistry. It’s procedural done right.
Similar Vibes:
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From the creators of Law & Order
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Investigative teamwork at its core
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Serious tone with high urgency
7. Hawaii Five-0 – The Sun-Soaked Crime Fighter’s Paradise
Why It’s a Must:
Like NCIS, this reboot gives you team camaraderie, covert missions, and complex villains. Add in gorgeous island scenery and a bit of humor.
Similar Vibes:
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Military backgrounds
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Action-packed chases and shootouts
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Strong sense of place and identity
8. Magnum P.I. (Reboot) – Charm, Cases, and Car Chases
Why It’s a Must:
This modern reboot of a classic blends charismatic leads with light-hearted procedural action. If you loved Tony DiNozzo’s humor, Magnum P.I. delivers that same charm.
Similar Vibes:
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Private investigations with military roots
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Sleek storytelling
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Just enough romance and comedy
9. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation – Forensic Drama at Its Finest
Why It’s a Must:
Where NCIS leans military, CSI leans scientific analysis. From the first blood spatter to the final autopsy report, this series digs deep into the evidence.
Similar Vibes:
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Crime-solving with a procedural format
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Technology meets detective work
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Satisfying conclusions in most episodes
10. JAG – The Show That Gave Birth to NCIS
Why It’s a Must:
Yes, JAG is the OG series that launched NCIS. It’s military justice, courtroom drama, and Naval intrigue wrapped into one smartly written series.
Similar Vibes:
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Legal + military overlap
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Character-driven storytelling
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The foundation for all NCIS spin-offs
