CBS’ NCIS has officially joined one of television’s rarest clubs. Now in its 23rd season, the long-running procedural has reached an incredible 500 episodes, a milestone achieved by only a handful of live-action series in TV history.
To celebrate, the cast gathered for a commemorative photo and behind-the-scenes video shared by Wilmer Valderrama—marking yet another major moment for a franchise that remains one of TV’s most-watched staples, whether on broadcast, streaming, or syndication.
While plot details for the 500th episode remain tightly guarded, the milestone comes on the heels of a special installment referencing “Yankee White,” the very first case Gibbs’ team ever tackled. That nod to the past has fans buzzing about what surprises might follow.
And there are plenty of possibilities. The biggest dream? A return from Mark Harmon as Leroy Jethro Gibbs, whose presence continues to loom large over the series. There are also rumors of Ellie Bishop making a comeback—another treat longtime viewers would welcome.
Only four other live-action shows—Gunsmoke, Lassie, Law & Order, and Law & Order: SVU—have hit this milestone. With spinoffs thriving and the flagship series still delivering strong storytelling, NCIS shows no signs of slowing down as it steps into its next 500.
