All 6 NCIS shows ranked from worst to best md03

NCIS Hawai'i 0

The NCIS franchise has become a titan in modern television, spinning off multiple series across different locations and tones. While all six shows have their own charm, not all of them hit the same level of impact, storytelling depth, or character development. So today, we’re diving into a full-scale ranking of all six NCIS shows, from the least impressive to the absolute best.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone deciding where to jump in, this ranking breaks down the strengths, weaknesses, highlights, and legacy of each series.

What Makes a Great NCIS Show?

Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about the criteria. Each show was ranked based on:

  • Story consistency and writing quality

  • Character development and chemistry

  • Viewer reception and cultural impact

  • Longevity and fan loyalty

  • Overall entertainment value

Now, let’s dive into the rankings.

#6 – NCIS: New Orleans

A Flavorful Yet Uneven Spin-Off

“NCIS: New Orleans” brought vibrant Louisiana energy to the franchise. Led by Scott Bakula as Dwayne Pride, the series blended jazz, Southern charm, and crime investigations.

What Worked

  • A colorful New Orleans backdrop

  • A strong lead who added heart and grit

  • Unique cultural storytelling

Where It Fell Short

The writing sometimes struggled with consistency. Some story arcs felt rushed or lacked emotional payoff. While enjoyable, it didn’t reach the narrative power of other NCIS shows.

#5 – NCIS: Sydney

The New Kid With Fresh Perspective

As the first NCIS series set outside the U.S., “NCIS: Sydney” carved out a new place in the franchise. Its international flair brought fresh dynamics and new conflicts.

Highlights

  • Stunning global cinematography

  • A refreshing Aussie take on NCIS style

  • Strong cross-agency tension

Downsides

Because it’s newer, it hasn’t developed the emotional history or long-term character impact that older NCIS shows possess.

#4 – NCIS: Hawai‘i

A Bright, Modern, Character-Driven Series

“NCIS: Hawai‘i” introduced a more diverse and modern cast, led by Vanessa Lachey as Special Agent Jane Tennant—the franchise’s first female NCIS Special Agent in Charge.

Strengths

  • Strong representation and modern themes

  • Warm tropical tone mixed with compelling cases

  • Relatable, heartfelt characters

Weak Spots

While filled with charm, some seasons leaned on predictable case-of-the-week formula and occasionally lacked the darker, more intense storylines fans love.

#3 – NCIS: Los Angeles

High-Energy Action and Tech-Driven Plots

If you like high-stakes missions, undercover work, and action-heavy storylines, “NCIS: Los Angeles” delivered it in style. With Chris O’Donnell and LL Cool J at the helm, this show became one of the most exciting branches of the franchise.

What It Did Best

  • Big action sequences rarely seen in other NCIS shows

  • Great chemistry between the main duo

  • A satisfying mix of humor and intensity

Why It’s Not Higher

Some fans felt the show drifted too far into espionage territory, losing that classic NCIS investigative feel.

#2 – NCIS: Hawai‘i (Hypothetical Spot If Renewed Stronger)

(This section can be removed or adjusted if you prefer a stricter ranking list.)

#2 – NCIS: Origins

A Bold Expansion Into Gibbs’ Early Days

Even though it’s newer, “NCIS: Origins” instantly captured attention by diving into the backstory of iconic agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs. With a nostalgic tone and deep emotional focus, it quickly climbed the ranking ladder.

Why Fans Love It

  • Deepens the mythology of the NCIS universe

  • Showcases young Gibbs in formative years

  • Balanced drama, character growth, and casework

Potential to Become a Classic

If the writing stays strong, this prequel could become one of the most important entries in franchise history.

#1 – NCIS (The Original Series)

The Unbeatable King of the Franchise

Nothing beats the classic. “NCIS” remains the heart, spine, and soul of the entire franchise. With 20+ seasons and countless unforgettable characters—Gibbs, Tony, Ziva, McGee, Ducky—the original show is unmatched.

Why It’s #1

  • Longest-running and most influential

  • Deep character relationships fans are emotionally connected to

  • A perfect blend of humor, drama, and crime

  • A legacy no other NCIS show can replicate

Cultural Impact

It didn’t just launch a franchise—it redefined a genre. “NCIS” is to procedural dramas what “Friends” is to sitcoms: iconic, timeless, and unmatched.

Final Overall Ranking

Here’s the full list one more time:

  1. NCIS (Original)

  2. NCIS: Origins

  3. NCIS: Los Angeles

  4. NCIS: Hawai‘i

  5. NCIS: Sydney

  6. NCIS: New Orleans

Conclusion

Ranking the six NCIS shows isn’t easy, especially because each one brings its own flavor, style, and strengths to the table. From the iconic charm of the original series to the fresh energy of newer spin-offs, the NCIS universe has grown into something larger than anyone expected.

Whether you’re a diehard Gibbs fan or someone who loves the adrenaline of NCIS: Los Angeles, every show offers something worth watching. And as the franchise continues to evolve, fans can expect even more surprises, new storytelling approaches, and unforgettable characters in the years ahead.

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