Although Hawai’i is going off the air, the overall roster of shows in the NCIS shared universe will still be going strong in the 2024-2025 season. In addition to NCIS season 22 and Sydney season 2 being renewed, two additional shows will be joining the franchise. One is a spinoff centering around Tony (Michael Weatherly) and Ziva (Cote de Pablo), which is currently untitled and undated, that will be coming to the streaming service Paramount+.
The other upcoming show in the franchise is NCIS: Origins, which will be part of the CBS lineup in the upcoming season. It will be a prequel following the younger years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the iconic character played by Mark Harmon for the first 19 seasons of the flagship show. While Austin Stowell will be stepping into the lead role for the new show, Harmon will provide the narration for the prequel, which also stars Mariel Molina, Tyla Abercrumbie, Diany Rodriguez, and Kyle Schmid.
Even though the spinoff won’t be moving forward, the fact that there are so many other shows on the air means that the NCIS: Hawai’i cast still has the opportunity to reprise their roles elsewhere. While the location of Sydney and the timeline of Origins limit that ability somewhat, the franchise is known for its crossovers and consistent roster of characters. In fact, a character from the recently cancelled Los Angeles appeared on the franchise’s 1000th episode in 2024, proving that there is a willingness to keep certain cast members on board.
When you think of long-running TV franchises, NCIS is probably one of the first that comes to mind. What started as a spinoff from JAG back in 2003 has evolved into a sprawling universe of shows, characters, and global storylines. Two decades later, it’s not just surviving—it’s thriving. But why? What keeps this procedural juggernaut fresh, beloved, and undeniably unstoppable? Let’s dive deep into how the NCIS franchise is still going strong and what makes it tick in a world where shows often get canceled before their first season ends.
The Origin of a TV Powerhouse
From JAG to NCIS—How It All Began
It all started with a backdoor pilot in JAG introducing Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs and his crew. Viewers instantly connected with the characters’ chemistry, and the Navy’s investigative arm provided fertile ground for fresh storytelling.
The Formula That Works
What makes NCIS click? A mix of tight-knit teams, character-driven plots, and just the right dose of humor. It’s CSI meets Law & Order, but with way more heart.
A Global Phenomenon
International Reach and Syndication Success
NCIS isn’t just big in the U.S.—it airs in over 200 countries. It’s dubbed, subtitled, and binge-watched in multiple languages, making it a cultural phenomenon far beyond American borders.
Streaming Power Boost
Old episodes continue to perform incredibly well on streaming platforms like Paramount+ and Netflix (in some regions). It proves that even the earlier seasons still draw audiences today.
The Expanding Universe of NCIS
The Spin-Offs That Took Off
The NCIS brand has branched into several successful spin-offs:
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NCIS: Los Angeles (2009–2023): A tech-savvy, action-heavy twist.
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NCIS: New Orleans (2014–2021): A flavor-filled Southern take on the formula.
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NCIS: Hawai’i (2021–2024): The first female-led NCIS team brought tropical vibes and new energy.
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NCIS: Sydney (2023–Present): The first international spinoff—and it’s already making waves.
Each Series Has Its Own Flavor
While they all share the NCIS name, each show is unique in tone, setting, and cast. That’s part of the franchise’s secret weapon—it can evolve without losing its core.
Reinvention Is the Key to Longevity
Why NCIS Has Never Gone Stale
After 20+ seasons, you’d expect the original NCIS to feel repetitive. But it doesn’t. New cast members, unexpected character arcs, and emotional departures keep fans invested.
H3: Changing Cast, Steady Ratings
From Tony and Ziva to Bishop and Torres, and more recently, Alden Parker (played by Gary Cole), the cast turnover has actually helped keep things fresh rather than harm it.
Characters That Stick With You
Strong Ensemble Casts
Gibbs might have left the show, but his legacy still shapes the team. Characters like McGee, Ducky, Abby, and Palmer have become household names. These aren’t just characters—they’re family to fans.
Iconic Exits That Made Fans Cry
Whether it was Ziva’s presumed death or Gibbs’ quiet farewell, the show has mastered the art of making departures emotional and impactful.
The Power of Continuity and Closure
Long Arcs and Payoffs
Unlike many procedural shows, NCIS rewards long-time viewers. Plot arcs develop over multiple seasons, and callbacks to earlier events are frequent.
Closure Matters to Fans
When characters leave or relationships evolve, the show gives them meaningful send-offs—not just quick cuts. That respect for storytelling keeps fans loyal.
A Fanbase That Doesn’t Quit
Social Media Buzz and Community Support
From Facebook groups to Reddit threads and TikTok edits, NCIS fans are everywhere. They keep old episodes alive and drum up excitement for each new season.
Fandom Events and Cons
Fan conventions and cast interviews bring audiences closer to their favorite stars, helping to humanize the brand and keep engagement sky-high.
Behind the Scenes: Quality Production
Consistency in Writing and Direction
Unlike many shows that shift drastically behind the scenes, NCIS has maintained a consistent creative team. That continuity helps preserve the tone fans expect.
High Production Values
Even after all these years, the sets, stunts, and cinematography remain top-tier, especially as the franchise leans into more cinematic storytelling.
Smarter Storytelling in a Smarter Age
Tackling Modern Issues
Cybercrime, military ethics, PTSD, international espionage—NCIS has evolved to tackle timely topics with nuance and authenticity.
Balancing Tech and Emotion
While tech-driven plots are common, the real hook remains the emotional stakes. Whether it’s a grieving family or a team member in crisis, the show never forgets the human side.
Ratings, Renewals, and Real Success
Still a Ratings Beast
Even in 2025, NCIS pulls in millions of weekly viewers. It’s one of the few legacy shows that hasn’t just endured—but stayed near the top of network rankings.
Renewals That Keep Coming
CBS continues to greenlight new seasons—and with the success of NCIS: Sydney, don’t be surprised if more global spinoffs are announced.
What’s Next for the NCIS Franchise?
More Spinoffs on the Horizon?
There’s constant buzz about an NCIS: Europe or even an animated prequel series. The brand is ripe for expansion, and fans are ready.
Return of Fan-Favorite Characters
Ziva, Tony, and even Gibbs could return in guest roles or limited arcs—especially with streaming-exclusive mini-series becoming more popular.
Why the NCIS Formula Still Works
Familiar Yet Fresh
Every episode feels like coming home—there’s a sense of comfort in the formula. But it also surprises you just enough to keep it exciting.
Heart Over Hype
While others chase gimmicks, NCIS leans into character, loyalty, and storytelling. And that, above all, is why it still resonates.
Conclusion: The NCIS Legacy Lives On
The NCIS franchise is a rare gem in the world of television. It’s not just about solving crimes—it’s about relationships, resilience, and reinvention. From its humble beginnings to international acclaim, NCIS shows no signs of slowing down.
In an age where most series flame out fast, NCIS continues to burn brightly, fueled by great storytelling, a dedicated fanbase, and an uncanny ability to evolve. So here’s to the next chapter—because something tells us this ship has plenty of stories left to tell.
