Few TV franchises rival the longevity of NCIS, which began in 2003 as a spin-off of JAG and has since expanded into a global crime-solving universe. Over two decades later, the franchise includes multiple spin-offs set across the U.S. and beyond — though not all entries are created equal.
At the bottom of the list sits NCIS: Sydney, whose international premise hasn’t yet elevated it beyond familiar procedural beats. NCIS: Hawai’i follows, cut short just as it began finding its creative footing. The prequel NCIS: Origins earns praise for deepening Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ backstory, while JAG remains a respected — if tonally different — foundation of the universe.
Near the top, NCIS: New Orleans and NCIS: Los Angeles shine thanks to charismatic casts and distinct identities. Still, the original NCIS reigns supreme, proving consistency and character chemistry are the franchise’s greatest strengths.
