Crossovers are some of the most exciting moments in the NCIS universe. Fans love when iconic characters from different branches join forces, bringing bigger stories, higher stakes, and unforgettable on-screen chemistry. Whether it’s NCIS teaming up with NCIS: Hawai’i, NCIS: Los Angeles, or the legendary backdoor pilots that launched the franchise, these episodes always hit differently.
In this massive guide, we’re ranking every major NCIS crossover episode involving NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, and NCIS: Hawai’i—from the least impactful to the absolute best.
Let’s dive deep into the action-packed world of cross-division teamwork, emotional reunions, and explosive storylines fans still talk about today.
Why NCIS Crossovers Matter
Crossovers in the NCIS universe do more than bring characters together—they amplify the world-building. They blend investigative styles, merge personality clashes, and offer rare stories that wouldn’t work in a single show.
It’s like mixing your favorite ingredients into the perfect recipe. Fans get nostalgia, intrigue, and the thrill of seeing worlds collide.
How We Ranked These Episodes
To keep things fair and consistent, each episode was ranked using four criteria:
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Story impact
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Character dynamics
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Fan reception
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Long-term importance to the NCIS universe
We considered both two-part and multi-part crossovers across all NCIS shows.
Every NCIS Crossover Episode Ranked (Worst to Best)
#18 – “Blame It on Rio” (NCIS x NCIS: LA)
A fun yet lightweight crossover. While the banter between the teams is entertaining, the case itself feels smaller compared to the high-stakes crossovers that came later.
#17 – “The Good, The Bad & The Ugly” (NCIS x NCIS: LA)
This crossover explores an interesting fugitive chase but lacks emotional punch. Still, it helps build early connections between the teams.
#16 – “Crescent City” (Backdoor Pilot for NCIS: New Orleans)
A solid introduction to Pride’s team, though it functions more as a pilot than a true crossover. It sets the foundation but doesn’t deliver the punch fans expect later on.
#15 – “Hetty’s Operation” (NCIS x NCIS: LA)
A Hetty-centric crossover always brings charm, but the storyline stays too focused on exposition instead of collaboration.
#14 – “Sister City, Part 1 & 2” (NCIS x NCIS: New Orleans)
A fun food-poisoning mystery ties the teams together. Great character moments, but the plot lacks gravity, keeping it from ranking higher.
#13 – “Pandora’s Box, Parts 1 & 2” (NCIS x NCIS: New Orleans)
A nationwide threat brings the teams together. It’s a satisfying crossover but suffers from pacing issues that hold it back.
#12 – “Ties That Bind” (NCIS x NCIS: LA)
A deep dive into personal connections with a case tying multiple universes together. Not the flashiest, but character development shines.
#11 – “Rogue Nation” (NCIS x NCIS: LA)
This crossover blurs lines between domestic and international territory, giving fans a sense of political complexity rarely seen in shared episodes.
#10 – “Starting Over” (NCIS x NCIS: Hawai’i)
When Torres travels to Hawai’i, sparks fly—professionally and personally. It’s a strong bridge between the two shows and sets the stage for bigger team-ups.
#9 – “Prisoner’s Dilemma” (NCIS x NCIS: Hawai’i)
A smart, well-paced episode focusing on escaped intelligence officers. Tennant’s team and Parker’s crew work in harmony, delivering a suspenseful crossover.
#8 – “Deep Fake / Long Time Coming” (NCIS x NCIS: LA)
A two-part story filled with espionage, surprises, and Chris O’Donnell delivering one of his best performances as Callen. It’s packed with tension, though not the most emotional.
#7 – “The Brat Pack” (NCIS x Hawai’i Character Carryover)
While technically not a full crossover, Jane Tennant’s appearance helps to expand the interconnected world. This episode marks a notable shift toward a fully unified franchise.
#6 – “A Family Matter / Raise the Roof / Hello, Hawai’i” (NCIS x NCIS: Hawai’i Multi-Part Event)
A beautifully crafted 3-part crossover introducing characters, building suspense, and blending the strengths of both teams. It’s one of the most cohesive multi-episode collaborations to date.
#5 – “Touch of Evil / Into the Night” (NCIS x NCIS: Hawai’i)
An intense manhunt with tight pacing and amazing chemistry between Jane Tennant and the NCIS DC crew. The emotional beats hit hard and the action keeps viewers hooked.
#4 – “Bridge to the Other Side” (Multi-Show Tribute Crossover Moments)
While not a traditional multi-episode crossover, this emotional tribute to fallen characters unites the NCIS universe in a powerful, heart-breaking way.
#3 – “Legend, Part 1 & 2” (Backdoor Pilot for NCIS: LA)
The crossover that started everything for NCIS: Los Angeles. Sharp writing, strong introductions, and a fresh tone make these episodes iconic.
#2 – “A Big Hawaiian Crossover Event” (NCIS x NCIS: Hawai’i)
This high-energy crossover tackles a global threat and showcases the best aspects of both teams: Tennant’s tactical brilliance and McGee’s tech mastery. Fans still call it one of the franchise’s boldest moves.
#1 – “NCIS Three-Show Crossover Event” (NCIS x NCIS: LA x NCIS: Hawai’i)
The unforgettable, franchise-defining moment.
This rare three-series crossover blends emotional depth, massive action sequences, and a storyline that feels like a blockbuster movie.
From Parker’s leadership to Tennant’s strategic genius and Callen & Sam’s intensity, this crossover showcases the full power of the NCIS universe. No other episode brings so many key players together with such seamless storytelling.
This is the gold standard for all NCIS crossovers—past and future.
Conclusion
The NCIS franchise has grown into a massive interconnected world filled with beloved characters, gripping cases, and relationship dynamics that only deepen with every crossover. Whether it’s Tennant saving the day in Hawai’i, Callen and Sam tackling global threats, or the original NCIS team tying everything together, these episodes showcase the franchise at its very best.
Crossovers aren’t just fan service—they’re proof of how strong, flexible, and universally loved the NCIS world has become.
