After two decades of dominance, it looks like NCIS is finally slipping.
According to the latest data from FlixPatrol, the flagship CBS procedural has dropped to No. 10 on Paramount+’s top streaming series list, marking a rare low point for the long-running crime drama. Sitting behind titles like SpongeBob SquarePants, SEAL Team, and even Sabrina the Teenage Witch, NCIS now trails far behind current chart-toppers like South Park, MobLand, and Yellowstone.
A Legendary Run That Redefined TV
Originally launched in 2003 as a JAG spinoff, NCIS quickly built a loyal fan base and became a TV phenomenon. Its original cast featured now-iconic characters like Mark Harmon’s stoic Leroy Jethro Gibbs, Michael Weatherly’s charming Tony DiNozzo, and Pauley Perrette’s quirky goth forensic expert Abby Sciuto.
Over 22 seasons, the series has evolved through major cast shakeups, emotional exits, and the introduction of new team members—including Gary Cole’s Alden Parker, who currently leads the show following Harmon’s departure in Season 19.
What’s Next for Parker in Season 23?
The most recent season ended with a gut punch: Agent Parker reeling from the mysterious murder of his father, Roman—an act seemingly tied to Kansas City mob boss Carla Marino. Speaking about the cliffhanger, Gary Cole hinted that Parker’s emotional journey in Season 23 will be heavy with repercussions.
“I’m not sure how that’s going to play out, but I know it’s going to have something to do with revenge — whether accurate or misplaced,” Cole said. “But it can’t not have any consequences to him mentally.”
A Franchise Still Going Strong—Just in New Ways
Though the main series may be feeling its age, the NCIS franchise continues to expand. Upcoming spinoffs like NCIS: Tony & Ziva and the prequel NCIS: Origins are injecting new life into the universe. These offshoots have sparked fresh buzz, especially as fan-favorite characters return or get reimagined.
Speaking of returns, JAG alum David James Elliott—who reprised his role as Harmon Rabb Jr. during a short NCIS: Los Angeles arc—recently revealed he’s open to coming back again, despite no formal plans.
“I don’t really know any of the people on NCIS, but if they came to me, I certainly would consider it,” Elliott shared.
A Quiet Shift or a Turning Point?
It’s too early to call this a downfall, but the dip in rankings may hint at NCIS‘s need to evolve. With fans now turning their attention to newer spinoffs and other popular franchises, the original show will need to deliver something bold in Season 23 to reclaim its spotlight.
NCIS is currently streaming on Paramount+, with Season 23 expected to premiere in 2025.
