Since 2003, NCIS has been through a lot. Dramatic storylines, complicated pasts, a mix of action and comedy, character appearances and departures, and Gibbs’ famous rules. NCIS has had its ups and downs, so for new fans, watching every episode is a must. After 22 years on the air and over 20 seasons, it’s a long way to go, but loyal fans are eagerly awaiting season 23 – which should continue to bring exciting episodes, bringing the show closer to its two-decade mark.
After the end of season 22, fans are hoping to see more of Ziva (Cote de Pablo). Here are five characters we’d love to see next season – and five we’d rather not.
Don’t: Jeanne (Scottie Thompson)
The chances of Jeanne making a return are slim. However, NCIS has a way of bringing back unexpected characters, so it can’t be ruled out entirely. If the writers read this, we really don’t need another Jeanne, especially after the tension she caused with DiNozzo (although she had a legitimate reason for doing so while he was undercover).
Should Have: Dwayne Pride
NCIS has had a number of crossovers with its Los Angeles and New Orleans versions. Dwayne Pride (Scott Bakula) is one of Gibbs’ closest friends, and they have a deep connection. A new crossover with Pride in season 23 would definitely be exciting. Whether it’s overlapping cases or one of them needing the other’s help, seeing NCIS teams from different cities working together is always a treat for fans.
Should Not Have: Abigail Borin
Abigail Borin (Diane Neal) has not been a fan favorite since the beginning. Some didn’t like the character development, others weren’t impressed with her appearances on NCIS or NCIS: New Orleans. So we don’t need Borin back next season.
Should Have: Kate Todd
NCIS did a great job of remembering Kate Todd (Sasha Alexander) after her unexpected death in season 2. Her death left the NCIS team and viewers deeply saddened. Seeing Kate in flashbacks or references helped ease the pain. We hope to see Kate “present” in season 23, perhaps through Gibbs’ dreams or McGee’s (Sean Murray) fantasies.
Should Not Have: Jacqueline “Jack” Sloane
Although she’s been a mainstay in recent seasons, some fans would like to see less of Jack (Maria Bello). She has the same skills and painful past as many other characters who have appeared before her. Sloane wasn’t always likeable or approachable, so reducing her screen time could help create a better balance for the rest of the cast.
Should Have: Abby Sciuto
We miss Abby (Pauley Perrette), the cheerful Goth forensics expert who always had a Caf-Pow in her hand. Abby was the face of NCIS, breaking stereotypes and bringing dynamism to the show. Even though she left at the end of season 15, fans are still hoping she’ll make a surprise return, perhaps on a case or just visiting with old colleagues.
Shouldn’t Have: Anthony DiNozzo Sr.
Tony DiNozzo Jr.’s (Michael Weatherly) father, this character has been a huge disruption to his son’s life. While he had some positive moments, his presence often caused unnecessary conflict. He still popped up a few times after Tony Jr. left NCIS, but there’s no need to revisit the story any more because it’s already pretty stale.
Should Have: Ziva David
Ziva has always been a beloved character. Initially brought in to replace Kate, she quickly won the hearts of viewers. Her surprise appearance at the end of season 22 left many unanswered questions, and season 23 will likely focus on her survival story. It seems that Ziva’s death was not as simple as everyone thought.
Should Not Have: Alexandra Quinn
Jennifer Esposito as Quinn only appeared for one season and left little impression. She was a good person with a human story about caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s, but Quinn’s return was not expected by many fans.
Should Have: Tony DiNozzo
Finally, with Ziva’s return, fans are extremely excited about her reunion with Tony – who left NCIS to become a single father after believing Ziva was dead. While Michael Weatherly is busy with his new show Bull, there’s still hope for a special appearance from him, bringing some humor and heart to the series.
Whoever NCIS chooses to bring back this season, viewers are sure to be hooked. Despite being on the air for over 20 years, NCIS has maintained its appeal and kept viewers wanting more each season.
