The NCIS franchise is going through a bit of a reorganization. CBS’s ratings juggernaut spawned two spinoffs, but the newest of those – NCIS: New Orleans – is coming to an end as the original NCIS could be nearing a conclusion as well. Per THR, NCIS: New Orleans will end with its current Season 7, with the series finale scheduled to air on May 16, 2021 on CBS. The show, which is led by Scott Bakula, has been steadily declining in viewership and its 10-episode seventh season is its lowest rated yet.
“It has been our sincere pleasure and honor to work on this show and with this incredible cast and crew for over 150 episodes,” said executive producers Christopher Silber and Jan Nash. “As disappointed as we are to see NOLA end, we couldn’t be prouder of the work we’ve done and are grateful to the spectacular and resilient Crescent City that embraced us for seven wonderful years.” “Sad to end our love affair with this phenomenal city but so grateful for all the friends we made along the way,” said series star and executive producer Scott Bakula. “I will miss the music. Big thank you to CBS for seven years.”
The first NCIS spinoff, NCIS: Los Angeles, is currently in its 12th season and is still going strong, but the original NCIS starring Mark Harmon may be coming to an end sooner rather than later. The producers and stars are currently waiting to hear from CBS if they’ll be renewed for Season 19, but Harmon’s deal on the show comes to a close this season. THR reports that when Harmon heard CBS would end the show if he left, he made a deal to return for a handful of episodes if it gets renewed for a 19th season. So if NCIS Season 19 happens, expect Harmon to be back in a limited capacity.
NCIS is the longest running show currently on CBS, but that also means it’s their most expensive. Viewership has been pretty solid, but when any show gets this old, the salaries for the cast and crew grow to a number that becomes cost-prohibitive, which is why you often seen actors get replaced or the shows cancelled altogether.
What Really Happened to NCIS: New Orleans?
It was a bittersweet moment when CBS announced the cancellation of NCIS: New Orleans after seven seasons. Fans felt the sting. The show, led by Scott Bakula as Special Agent Dwayne Pride, carved out its own vibrant identity in the NCIS universe. But with its departure, many are asking: is the original NCIS next?
The Legacy of the NCIS Franchise
The Birth of a TV Powerhouse
The original NCIS began as a spinoff of JAG back in 2003. Fast forward over two decades, and it’s one of the longest-running scripted shows in U.S. television history. Its gritty investigations, tight-knit cast, and memorable characters like Leroy Jethro Gibbs (played by Mark Harmon) made it a household staple.
NCIS: New Orleans—The Southern Charm That Captivated Fans
While NCIS: Los Angeles brought the action and NCIS: Hawai’i offers sun-soaked thrills, NCIS: New Orleans had soul. Its jazz-infused setting, cultural depth, and strong ensemble cast made it stand out. So why cancel it?
Why Was NCIS: New Orleans Cancelled?
Ratings Decline—The Unforgiving Metric
Despite a dedicated fanbase, the show saw a dip in ratings over the years. While not catastrophic, the numbers weren’t strong enough to guarantee its survival.
Creative Closure or Studio Strategy?
Producers and cast hinted they had time to give the story a proper ending. But let’s be real—this was more studio politics than storytelling closure.
Behind-the-Scenes Shifts
Network executives often make decisions based on budgets, shifting priorities, and streaming wars. CBS seemed to bet more on newer projects, possibly seeing NCIS: New Orleans as a casualty of transition.
Is the Original NCIS in Danger of Ending Too?
It’s Still Standing—For Now
The original NCIS hasn’t shown strong signs of ending imminently. But it’s not invincible. Let’s look at what might keep it afloat—or sink it.
Aging Cast and Exit of Key Characters
Mark Harmon’s Semi-Retirement
Mark Harmon, the face of the show for nearly two decades, took a backseat in Season 19. Although he still holds an executive producer credit, fans know: without Gibbs, NCIS doesn’t feel the same.
Cast Turnover Fatigue
From Ziva to DiNozzo to Abby, many beloved characters have left. While new faces bring fresh energy, some longtime viewers feel the emotional glue is thinning.
Ratings Still Holding Strong—Sort Of
Despite its age, NCIS still ranks well compared to other network dramas. It’s no longer the behemoth it once was, but its consistency is key to its survival.
Global Syndication & Streaming: A Lifeline
NCIS isn’t just a U.S. favorite—it’s a global powerhouse. Syndication deals, international broadcasts, and streaming rights keep the revenue flowing. That means CBS might not be ready to pull the plug just yet.
Spinoffs & Franchise Fatigue
The NCIS Universe Is Expanding… or Imploding?
With the addition of NCIS: Hawai’i and rumors of NCIS: Sydney, CBS is testing how far the brand can stretch. But too much of a good thing can lead to franchise fatigue.
Will NCIS End Soon? Here’s What We Think
There’s no official word that the original NCIS is ending. But let’s look at the signs.
Reasons It Could End Soon
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Key cast departures
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Aging format
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Network shifting to newer content
Reasons It Could Continue
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Solid ratings
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Global popularity
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Brand value for CBS
What the Cast Has Said
Scott Bakula, in his farewell message, emphasized how grateful he was to the fans and crew. Meanwhile, other NCIS actors have been cryptically quiet about the franchise’s future—fueling speculation.
What Fans Are Saying Online
Fans are split. Some want NCIS to end while it’s still respected; others want it to go on forever. Twitter and Reddit are flooded with theories, petitions, and nostalgic tributes to the series.
The Big Question: Will CBS Let NCIS End Gracefully?
Only time will tell. But if NCIS is going to end, fans deserve more than a surprise cancellation. We’re talking closure, a sendoff, and maybe even some legendary returns (looking at you, DiNozzo and Ziva).
If NCIS Ends, What’s Next for the Franchise?
CBS may not let go of the NCIS brand entirely. More spinoffs? A reboot? A streaming-exclusive sequel series? The possibilities are endless—but the original show’s DNA will always matter most.
Final Thoughts: It’s the End of a Chapter, Not the Book
So yes, NCIS: New Orleans is over. And while the flagship show might not be ending tomorrow, the clock is ticking. When the day comes, we hope CBS and the writers give it the grand finale it truly deserves.
