A Fan’s Honest Take on NCIS
NCIS has been a household name for years, but fans are more divided than ever. While NCIS: Hawai’i has captured hearts with its fresh energy, the addition of Gary Cole hasn’t exactly thrilled everyone. In fact, some argue he’s dragging the franchise down. Meanwhile, beloved characters like Sam Hanna and G. Callen from NCIS: Los Angeles could be the much-needed lifeline to keep the brand alive. So, what’s the deal with Gary Cole, and why are fans desperate for a change? Let’s dive deep.
The NCIS Franchise: A Legacy Worth Protecting
For over two decades, NCIS has reigned as one of TV’s most-watched dramas. With spin-offs like NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: Hawai’i, it has built a loyal fan base that spans generations.
But here’s the problem: every legacy needs careful management. A single weak link can tip the balance—and many believe Gary Cole is that weak link.
Gary Cole’s Role in NCIS
When Mark Harmon (Leroy Jethro Gibbs) left the show, Gary Cole stepped in as Alden Parker. On paper, it made sense—Cole has decades of acting experience. But in practice, it hasn’t worked for everyone.
Why Fans Don’t Connect with Cole
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Lack of chemistry with the established cast
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Flat delivery that doesn’t carry Gibbs’ weight
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Unconvincing leadership style, making fans miss Gibbs even more
Many viewers feel like he’s filling a chair rather than embodying a character.
The Problem with Alden Parker
Parker was introduced as a quirky FBI agent with a “lighter” style than Gibbs. While different can be good, NCIS fans weren’t looking for quirky. They wanted strong, commanding, and layered. Instead, they got awkward, forced humor that feels out of place.
It’s like swapping a sharp, seasoned detective for someone who stumbled in from a comedy sketch.
The Shadow of Gibbs
Let’s be real—replacing Gibbs was always going to be a challenge. Harmon built Gibbs into an icon, and anyone stepping in would face criticism. But Gary Cole hasn’t just struggled; he’s made fans nostalgic for Gibbs in a painful way.
Why Sam and Callen Could Save NCIS
Sam Hanna (LL Cool J) and G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) aren’t just fan favorites—they’re proven leaders. Their dynamic worked brilliantly on NCIS: Los Angeles for over a decade.
Strengths They Bring
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Chemistry that clicks instantly
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Leadership under pressure
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A balance of action and emotion
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Fan loyalty already built-in
Bringing them into the NCIS universe more fully could not only reinvigorate the franchise but also patch the hole left by Harmon’s exit.
The Case for NCIS: Hawai’i
NCIS: Hawai’i has been a breath of fresh air. Vanessa Lachey as Jane Tennant has won respect, and the island setting adds visual flair. But imagine combining that with Sam and Callen’s grit? You’d have the perfect blend of warmth, action, and legacy.
Why Gary Cole Doesn’t Work in Hawai’i
Some fans suggest moving Cole to Hawai’i, but honestly, it wouldn’t work. The vibe is too different. Cole’s awkward humor would clash with the fast-paced, high-stakes storytelling that Hawai’i thrives on.
The Fan Voice: Social Media Speaks
Just scroll through Twitter, Reddit, or NCIS fan groups. The sentiment is loud and clear: fans are not connecting with Gary Cole. On the other hand, every time Sam or Callen reappears, the comment sections light up with excitement.
A Franchise at Risk
If NCIS doesn’t listen, it risks alienating its base. Fans who grew up with Gibbs, DiNozzo, and Ziva aren’t sticking around for a watered-down version led by Parker. Instead, they’re craving strong characters who can carry the weight.
What a Sam and Callen Crossover Could Look Like
Imagine this: Sam and Callen join forces with Jane Tennant in Hawai’i for a major case. The crossover pulls fans from Los Angeles and Hawai’i, uniting the universes and giving viewers the action-driven leadership they’ve been craving.
It’s the kind of move that could trend worldwide and reestablish NCIS as the king of procedural drama.
Why CBS Should Listen
Television isn’t just about ratings anymore—it’s about fan loyalty, social media buzz, and cultural impact. Ignoring the audience’s voice is like steering a ship into a storm with the sails down. CBS has the chance to course-correct by bringing in Sam and Callen while phasing out Cole.
The Bigger Picture: Saving the NCIS Brand
At its core, NCIS is about team dynamics, strong leadership, and cases that keep us guessing. Right now, that formula feels off-balance. Fixing it isn’t impossible—it just requires bold choices.
And let’s face it: Gary Cole isn’t the bold choice. Sam and Callen are.
Conclusion: Time for Change
NCIS fans have spoken—they love the franchise, they love Hawai’i, but they don’t love Gary Cole. If CBS wants to protect the brand’s legacy, the answer is simple: bring in Sam and Callen. Let them breathe life back into NCIS and remind everyone why they fell in love with the show in the first place.
FAQs
1. Why don’t fans like Gary Cole on NCIS?
Because his character, Alden Parker, feels flat, lacks chemistry with the cast, and doesn’t carry the same leadership energy as Gibbs.
2. Who are Sam and Callen?
Sam Hanna (LL Cool J) and G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) are fan-favorite characters from NCIS: Los Angeles, known for their leadership and chemistry.
3. Could Sam and Callen join NCIS: Hawai’i?
Yes! A crossover would make perfect sense, bringing loyal fans and fresh energy to the franchise.
4. Is NCIS losing viewers because of Gary Cole?
While the show still has viewers, fan backlash suggests Cole’s presence isn’t helping ratings or engagement.
5. Will CBS actually replace Gary Cole?
That’s up to CBS, but fan voices matter. If enough people speak out, change is possible.
