CBS’s long-running drama NCIS season 20 returns Monday night Sept. 19 at 9 p.m. ET as part of a big premiere crossover event with NCIS: Hawai’i. Both shows will be premiering new seasons on Monday night. NCIS will air on CBS at 9 p.m. ET and NCIS: Hawai’i will premiere right after at 10 p.m. ET also on CBS. Viewers without cable looking to stream the series can do so by using DirecTV Stream, fuboTV and Paramount+. All three streaming services offer new users free trials and Paramount+ plans start at just $4.99.
According to CBS’s description of the show, “NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) is more than just an action drama. With liberal doses of humor, it’s a show that focuses on the sometimes complex and always amusing dynamics of a team forced to work together in high-stress situations. From murder and espionage to terrorism and stolen submarines, these special agents investigate all crimes with Navy or Marine Corps ties.
Fubo TV’s description of “NCIS’” Episode 1 titled “A Family Matter” reads “with Special Agent Alden Parker still on the run with his ex-wife, the team investigates who from his past might have a personal vendetta against him in hopes of clearing Parker’s name.” Here is a look at the new seasons of both shows:
If you’re a fan of gripping crime dramas and adrenaline-fueled naval investigations, then missing the NCIS Season 20 premiere is simply not an option. And let’s not forget about its tropical spin-off—NCIS: Hawai’i—which is heating things up in more ways than one. So the big question is: how can you watch both premieres without paying a dime? Well, sit tight—we’ve got you covered with all the streaming hacks, platform secrets, and free trials you need.
Why NCIS Season 20 Is a Must-Watch
Before we dive into how to stream, let’s talk about why you should care.
The Legacy Continues
NCIS is more than just a TV show—it’s a cultural institution. With 20 seasons under its belt, it still finds ways to reinvent itself with fresh plots and intense cliffhangers.
NCIS: Hawai’i Adds a Fresh Twist
Set against stunning island backdrops, NCIS: Hawai’i is the newest addition that blends aloha vibes with high-stakes crime-solving.
Where NCIS Season 20 Premieres
Premiere Date and Time
NCIS Season 20 and NCIS: Hawai’i premiered back-to-back on CBS, forming a powerful Monday night lineup.
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NCIS: 9:00 PM ET/PT
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NCIS: Hawai’i: 10:00 PM ET/PT
Where to Stream NCIS and NCIS: Hawai’i for Free
You can watch both without a cable subscription—and yes, legally.
1. Paramount+ Free Trial
Paramount+ is CBS’s official streaming platform. It offers a 7-day free trial, perfect for catching the premieres.
Steps:
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Visit paramountplus.com
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Sign up with an email and pick the free trial
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Stream both episodes live or on-demand
2. YouTube TV Free Trial
Another solid option is YouTube TV, which includes CBS in its channel lineup.
Why it rocks:
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Offers up to 14 days free
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No contracts or hidden fees
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DVR features to save the episode
3. Hulu + Live TV
Hulu’s live TV package carries CBS in many areas and offers a 7-day free trial too.
Bonus:
You also get access to Hulu originals, so binge away after NCIS!
4. FuboTV
FuboTV isn’t just for sports—it includes CBS and gives new users a 7-day free trial.
Why FuboTV?
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Great streaming quality
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Multiple device compatibility
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Live + on-demand access
Other Smart Ways to Watch NCIS for Free
Use a Friend’s Login
If a friend or family member subscribes to a live TV service or Paramount+, ask them to share their credentials.
Watch via CBS.com (Limited Time)
Sometimes CBS offers free premiere episodes on their website after airing. Check CBS.com within 24 hours post-airing.
Pro Tip: Set a Reminder
With multiple shows airing on the same night, don’t forget to set reminders or schedule a recording if your platform supports it.
Catch Up Before the Premiere
Haven’t watched the previous season? Here’s where you can binge-watch NCIS:
NCIS Season 19:
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Paramount+ (Full catalog)
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Amazon Prime Video (Buy episodes/seasons)
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Apple TV (Per episode purchase)
NCIS: Hawai’i Season 1:
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Peacock (Limited episodes)
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Paramount+
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Vudu or YouTube (Purchase)
What Makes NCIS Still So Addictive?
Dynamic Characters
From Gibbs to Torres and Parker, the NCIS team is packed with charisma and chemistry.
Twisty Plots
Each episode is its own mini-thriller—with layered mysteries and surprise endings.
Spin-Off Power
NCIS: Hawai’i brings a breath of fresh air with unique cases and so much ocean scenery.
Watching on Different Devices
Wondering what device works best for streaming?
Best Devices to Stream NCIS:
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Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Roku, etc.)
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Streaming Sticks (Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast)
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Mobile Devices (iOS, Android)
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Gaming Consoles (PS5, Xbox)
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Laptops/Desktops (Just use a browser)
Watch Out for These Streaming Pitfalls
No CBS in Your Area?
Not all live TV services offer CBS in every region. Use your zip code on each platform’s site to check availability.
Trial Expiry Alerts
Don’t forget to cancel your trial if you don’t want to be charged!
VPN Use (For International Viewers)
Outside the U.S.? Use a VPN to change your location and access U.S. streaming services.
NCIS in 2025: What’s Ahead
Expect crossover events, jaw-dropping exits, and new villains. The franchise is evolving with deeper character development and grittier storylines.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need cable or a fancy subscription to catch the NCIS Season 20 premiere and NCIS: Hawai’i. With a little planning and a few smart tricks, you can stream both for free—no sketchy websites, no surprise charges.
Don’t let Monday night slip by—grab your snacks, log in, and enjoy one of TV’s most addictive crime dramas. And hey, share this guide with a fellow fan—good TV is better when it’s shared.
