CBS confirms the iconic procedural will end this May, as cast and fans prepare for a heartfelt farewell to one of the network’s longest-running dramas.
After more than a decade of thrilling cases, undercover missions, and a family forged in the line of duty, NCIS: Los Angeles is officially coming to an end. CBS announced that the beloved procedural will conclude its run with the finale of season 14 on May 14, 2023, bringing its remarkable 14-year journey to a close.
The decision means that season 15 will not move forward, marking the end of an era for the NCIS franchise’s first successful spinoff. The series will conclude with a stunning total of 322 episodes, securing its place as one of the longest-running primetime dramas in CBS history.
A Final Mission for Callen & Hanna
Launched in 2009, NCIS: Los Angeles built a legacy on high-stakes cases, globe-trotting missions, and, at its core, a close-knit team that felt like family. At the heart of the series were Special Agent G. Callen (Chris O’Donnell) and Special Agent Sam Hanna (LL Cool J), whose dynamic partnership anchored the show through its many twists and turns.
The ensemble also featured Linda Hunt as the enigmatic Henrietta “Hetty” Lange, Daniela Ruah as the fearless Kensi Blye, Eric Christian Olsen as fan-favorite Marty Deeks, and more recent additions like Medalion Rahimi (Fatima Namazi), Caleb Castille (Devin Rountree), and Gerald McRaney (Hollis Kilbride). Together, this team tackled everything from rogue agents to international conspiracies — and did it with grit, heart, and unwavering loyalty.
Why CBS Pulled the Plug — Despite Solid Ratings
While NCIS: LA remained a steady performer for the network, season 14 saw a modest decline, averaging a 0.39 rating in the 18-49 demo and 4.46 million weekly viewers, down 21% and 16% respectively compared to the previous season. Still, the show proved it could bring in big numbers during major events — including the widely praised three-way crossover with NCIS and NCIS: Hawai’i, which drew impressive ratings.
Despite the drop, the cancellation reportedly surprised many. The show’s longevity, however, likely came with a higher production cost — a common factor when networks assess the future of veteran series.
CBS & Cast Reflect on the End of an Era
In a statement, Amy Reisenbach, President of CBS Entertainment, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the cast and crew:
“For 14 seasons, NCIS: Los Angeles has been a stalwart of our lineup with characters who were a joy to watch. We are so grateful for the collaboration and remarkable run of these treasured members of our CBS family, and plan to give them the big sendoff they and their fans deserve.”
The cast responded in kind, with LL Cool J sharing on social media:
“After 14 seasons, it’s the perfect time to end @NCISLA on top! I look forward to continuing my partnership with @CBSTVStudios… more exciting things ahead!”
Caleb Castille, who played Rountree, added a personal note to fans:
“Incredibly sad about the news that @NCISLA won’t be coming back… but man, what an amazing accomplishment. S/o to the best fans & crew in the world! I’m eternally grateful.”
Could This Be Goodbye… or Just Goodbye For Now?
With NCIS: Hawai’i still going strong and CBS recently reviving both Criminal Minds and CSI, there’s always the possibility that NCIS: Los Angeles — or at least some of its beloved characters — could return down the line. LL Cool J already made a surprise appearance on NCIS: Hawai’i in its season 3 premiere, proving the door isn’t entirely closed.
As NCIS: LA prepares to take its final bow, one thing is clear: the show leaves behind a loyal fanbase, a trail of unforgettable moments, and a legacy of service, sacrifice, and found family that defined a generation of television.
