When NCIS reached its 500th episode, it wasn’t just another number in the record books. For a scripted primetime drama, especially one that began as a backdoor pilot from JAG, this milestone signaled a rare kind of staying power. Over 20 seasons in, the series has proven it can adapt, evolve, and still command millions of loyal viewers every week.
A big part of NCIS’s longevity comes from its willingness to refresh the cast without losing its DNA. The early days centered on the legendary trio of Gibbs (Mark Harmon), Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly), and Ziva David (Cote de Pablo). When those characters left, the writers didn’t simply replace them with carbon copies — instead, they introduced fresh personalities like Alden Parker (Gary Cole), Jessica Knight (Katrina Law), and forensic expert Kasie Hines (Diona Reasonover). This careful blend of old and new kept the chemistry alive and gave long-time fans a reason to keep tuning in.
The cases themselves have also shifted with the times. Early episodes often dealt with straightforward military-related crimes, but as technology advanced and the real world changed, NCIS began incorporating cybercrime, global terrorism, and even pandemic-inspired plots. Viewers now get a mix of topical cases, heartwarming team moments, and the occasional callback to the show’s earliest seasons — a perfect recipe for keeping both nostalgia and novelty alive.
Even after 500 episodes, NCIS hasn’t lost the warm, slightly quirky tone that sets it apart from grittier procedurals. That mix of sharp crime-solving and found-family warmth is exactly why this series remains one of CBS’s crown jewels.
