Is it cake? That’s the question that Brian Dietzen has fun with in a TikTok from the NCIS Episode 500 celebration, which took place on Tuesday, December 2, on the set of the CBS drama. The episode itself will air in 2026. “Well… was it? You’ll have to examine it yourself. #NCIS #500episodes #Cake,” Dietzen captured the video, which you can check out below. It shows him with his figure. As the photos (scroll down) show, each cast member — Sean Murray (Timothy MccGee), Brian Dietzen (Dr. Jimmy Palmer), Rocky Carroll (Director Leon Vance), Wilmer Valderrama (Nick Torres), Katrina Law (Jessica Knight), and Diona Reasonover (Kasie Hines) — was represented at the event.

The photos also show each star posing with their figure, as well as a group shot and a picture of just the cake(?). It’s a fun, unique way to celebrate a major milestone for the long-running drama, now in its 23rd season and back on Tuesdays at 8/7c, where it aired for most of its run before moving to Mondays with Season 19.

Let’s be honest — not many TV shows last long enough to hit 500 episodes. But NCIS? Oh, it didn’t just reach that milestone… it celebrated it in style. From heartfelt cast moments to the now-iconic 500th episode cake, this celebration became an instant piece of television history.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone who loves behind-the-scenes glimpses, this milestone has everything: nostalgia, surprises, laughter, and a cake big enough to make anyone crave a slice. In this article, we’ll walk through the unforgettable celebration, the cast’s reactions, the symbolic cake, and why Episode 500 proves NCIS still owns its place in pop culture.

Why Episode 500 Is a Historic Moment for NCIS

Hitting 500 episodes isn’t just a milestone — it’s a legacy. NCIS now stands among TV royalty, sharing ranks with classics like Law & Order and The Simpsons.

A Show That Just Never Stops Winning Hearts

Since debuting in 2003, NCIS has built a massive global fanbase. Even two decades later, viewers still tune in for the perfect blend of mystery, emotional storytelling, and unforgettable characters.

The Impact of NCIS on TV Culture

From viral memes to iconic one-liners, this show continues shaping the crime-drama genre. Episode 500 was more than a party — it was a celebration of everything NCIS brought to television.

The Behind-the-Scenes Party Fans Needed to See

What’s a milestone without a celebration? And trust me, NCIS did not hold back.

The cast gathered on set, the energy was electric, and everyone knew they were part of something bigger than themselves.

Cast Members Reunited for the Big Moment

Even stars who rarely post behind-the-scenes photos shared their excitement online. It felt like a family reunion — and the fans absolutely loved it.

Crew Members Got Their Well-Deserved Spotlight

NCIS has always been powered by its dedicated crew. Episode 500 was a chance to celebrate the directors, writers, designers, and operators who keep the NCIS engine running.

The Cake That Stole the Celebration

Let’s talk about the real star of the party — the 500th episode cake.

A Cake Designed With Symbolism

The towering cake wasn’t just dessert. It featured iconic NCIS imagery:

• The signature badge

• The show’s logo

• Elements honoring the original cast

• A tribute to the 500-episode journey

It wasn’t just beautiful — it was emotional.

Cast Photos With The Cake Broke The Internet

The moment the cast gathered around the cake, fans on social media went wild.
Why? Because the photos captured:

• Genuine joy

• Nostalgic smiles

• The bond built over 20+ years

It reminded everyone that NCIS is more than a show — it’s a family.

A Tribute to Past and Present Stars

The cake celebration honored every cast member who contributed over the years. From Gibbs to McGee to Torres to Kasie — the tribute felt complete.

The Cast’s Emotional Reactions to Episode 500

You could feel the emotion radiating from the cast.

Sean Murray (McGee) Shared a Heartfelt Message

He reflected on how he grew with the show — from young agent to seasoned NCIS veteran.

Wilmer Valderrama (Torres) Brought Humor and Heart

He posted behind-the-scenes clips, showing the playful energy that keeps NCIS fresh after so many seasons.

Katrina Law (Knight) Gushed About Joining NCIS History

For newer cast members, hitting Episode 500 felt like stepping into a legacy.

A Celebration Across Social Media

Fans reshared cast posts thousands of times, proving the NCIS community is as strong as ever.

Flashback: How NCIS Became a 500-Episode Giant

To appreciate Episode 500, you have to look back at the journey.

From a Spin-Off to a Global Phenomenon

NCIS originally began as a spinoff of JAG — and few expected it to overshadow its parent show. But here we are.

The Characters Who Defined the Series

The celebration indirectly honored:

• Gibbs and his leadership

• Abby’s brilliant quirkiness

• Ducky’s wisdom

• McGee’s evolution

• Torres and Knight’s intensity

These characters built NCIS into a powerhouse.

What Episode 500 Means for the Future of NCIS

Is NCIS slowing down? Not even close.

The Show Still Has Endless Stories to Tell

New agents, new mysteries, new emotional arcs — the writers show no signs of running out of inspiration.

Fan Loyalty Keeps the Series Strong

Even after 20 years, NCIS maintains millions of weekly viewers. Episode 500 proved fans aren’t going anywhere.

Inside the Making of Episode 500

The celebration wasn’t just about cake — the episode itself packed emotional punches.

Writers Added Nostalgic References

Fans spotted callbacks to earlier seasons, hidden Easter eggs, and lines that felt like tributes to the OG cast.

Longtime Themes Reappeared

Family, loyalty, sacrifice — these themes shaped NCIS from day one. Episode 500 honored them all.

Fans’ Reactions: A Social Media Explosion

The internet exploded with reactions.

Trending Hashtags

Within hours, trending tags included:

• #NCIS500

• #NCISFamily

• #NCISCelebration

Fans Shared Personal Stories

Viewers posted how NCIS helped them through breakups, illness, deployments, and tough times.
Episode 500 wasn’t just celebrated — it was felt.

Why This Celebration Matters More Than Ever

In an era where shows come and go in a flash, NCIS is a reminder of consistency and heart.

A Testament to Quality Storytelling

Great characters. Great writing. Great energy.
It’s no mystery why NCIS became a TV giant.

A Celebration of Family — Onscreen and Off

The cake wasn’t just a dessert — it symbolized unity, loyalty, and shared history.

Conclusion

The NCIS Episode 500 celebration wasn’t just a party — it was a powerful reminder of how much this show means to fans worldwide. From the heartfelt cast moments to the stunning celebration cake, everything about the milestone felt legendary.

As the cast gathered around that iconic cake, one thing became clear:
NCIS isn’t slowing down — it’s only getting better.

Here’s to the next 500 episodes.