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CBS drops a major plot twist to end NCIS season 23’s fall finale, but it will be a while before its payoff is revealed. The long-running procedural has been delivering storytelling ever since it returned in the 2025-2026 TV cycle. As it finally mines stories from its long history, NCIS season 23 proves that it can tell fresh narratives while also honoring what came before.

The resurgence of Roma Maffia’s Vera is already a massive treat for long-time fans of the show, especially since her return ties to the very first crossover between the flagship and NCIS: Origins. Apparently, however, NCIS season 23 is saving its biggest surprise of the year during its fall finale. In the final moments of “Heaven and Nature,” Emily Bishop makes her first appearance since leaving at the end of season 18.

NCIS Season 23 Is Officially On Its Winter Break

CBS

Because of the cliffhanger ending, there’s heightened interest in seeing what’s next for MCRT as the team is inevitably reunited with Bishop. Unfortunately, fans will have to wait a little while longer before they get answers because currently, NCIS season 23 is already in the middle of its winter break. The annual hiatus usually lasts for a few weeks, allowing the show to work on future episodes to ensure that they have enough for the back half of the year. It also gives the cast and crew a break for the holiday season.

For tonight’s schedule, December 23, CBS is airing The 48th Annual Kennedy Center Honors starting at 8 PM ET and will take up the majority of the NCIS franchise’s three-hour block on Tuesdays. No clear confirmation what the network will air instead of new episodes of the procedural in the coming weeks, but usually, broadcasters use this time for re-runs.

When NCIS Season 23, Episode 10 Premieres (& What To Expect)

CBS

In recent years, CBS would bring back NCIS sometime in January for the latter half of its season. That said, things are a little bit different this year. Viewers will have to wait a little while longer to see what comes next for Bishop, including why she is the target for Jessica Knight’s ELITE team. As confirmed, NCIS season 23, episode 10 will air on February 24, 2026.

Because of how far away the episode is, CBS has yet to release official details for the outing. It’s curious, however, if NCIS will immediately address the cliffhanger or if it’s going to be delayed to a different time. It’s worth noting that the show is also about to celebrate its 500th episode, and Bishop’s story unraveling would be perfect for it.