CBS has kept fans on edge waiting to hear if NCIS is cancelled, but news broke today that the network has decided to renew the long-running procedural drama series for a 19th season – but there may be some changes. Heading into a potential NCIS Season 19, there was a question over whether star Mark Harmon would return. The actor’s contract was up after Season 18 ended, and CBS just cancelled the spinoff NCIS: New Orleans after seven seasons. But THR reports that Harmon was told that if he decided not to return for NCIS Season 19, CBS was likely going to cancel the show. Given that kind of ultimatum, and not wanting to leave his co-workers or fans hanging, Harmon decided to renew his contract and return for Season 19, which is ultimately the entire reason CBS is renewing the series.
However, it’s unclear if Harmon will be back for all the episodes of NCIS Season 19. One option that was floated during the negotiation process was for the actor to return for a limited number of episodes, which would push Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs to a more supporting role. It’s unclear if that’s the case, and it’s also unclear how long NCIS Season 19 will be. Previous seasons of the show were traditionally 24 episodes long, but the pandemic shortened both Season 17 (which was 20 episodes) and the current Season 18, which will conclude after just 16 episodes. So it’s possible NCIS Season 19 has a limited number of episodes as well.
If you’re wondering why CBS would cancel a successful show like NCIS had Harmon decided to leave, well TV shows get much more expensive the longer they’re on the air. So while NCIS is still a ratings hit for the network, the actors, writers, and producers are all making more money with each subsequent season. For now, however, it appears the show is profitable enough with Harmon onboard for CBS to continue.
NCIS premiered back in 2003, right after CBS had launched the massive hit CSI which then spawned a flurry of other mystery crime procedural-type shows. Harmon has been with the series since its inception, and he’s coming up on 19 years straight in this job, so it’s hard to blame him if he’s looking towards the exit door. For now, though, fans can rest easy knowing that Gibbs will be back for NCIS Season 19, and there will in fact be a Season 19. And despite the cancellation of NCIS: New Orleans, a new spinoff NCIS: Hawaii is currently in the works while NCIS: Los Angeles is awaiting word on whether it will be renewed for a 13th season.
The Big News Every NCIS Fan Was Waiting For
Let’s be honest—when news breaks about NCIS, it sends shockwaves across social media. With more than 400 episodes under its belt, this show is one of the most enduring crime dramas on television. So when CBS announced that NCIS was officially renewed for Season 19, fans were thrilled. But that excitement quickly turned bittersweet when rumors started swirling: Mark Harmon, our beloved Leroy Jethro Gibbs, may not be sticking around like before. Yep, you read that right. The heart and soul of the show could be dialing it back. So what does this mean for the future of NCIS? Let’s dig in.
What We Know About NCIS Season 19 So Far
CBS Confirms the Renewal
In early announcements, CBS confirmed that NCIS would return for another thrilling season. Given the show’s massive fan base and consistent ratings, this wasn’t a shock. But there was a twist…
Mark Harmon’s Role May Be Smaller Than Expected
According to multiple inside sources and media reports, Mark Harmon agreed to return only in a limited capacity. While he’s not leaving the show entirely, we may see less of him in upcoming episodes.
Why Mark Harmon Might Be Taking a Step Back
Behind-the-Scenes Talks Hint at Retirement
Word on the street is that Harmon originally planned to leave the series altogether, but when he heard that CBS might cancel the show without him, he negotiated a middle ground: a reduced role.
Health and Age Could Be Factors
At 70+, it’s understandable that Harmon might be ready to slow down. The physical demands of leading a high-action show could be taking their toll.
Exploring Other Ventures
There’s also speculation that Harmon may be eyeing other creative opportunities, such as directing or producing.
How the Show Plans to Adjust Without Gibbs Front and Center
Will There Be a New Team Leader?
Let’s not forget—NCIS has been slowly setting up a new generation of agents. Could someone like Agent McGee or Nick Torres step up and fill the void?
The Rise of Other Characters
Characters like Kasie Hines, Jessica Knight, and even Director Vance could get more screen time and narrative depth. The writers are clearly prepping for a transition.
Is This the Beginning of the End for NCIS?
History Shows the Franchise Is Resilient
Remember when Ziva left? Or when DiNozzo exited? Fans were devastated—but the show powered on. NCIS is a brand, not just a person.
Viewer Loyalty Is Still Strong
Despite cast shake-ups, NCIS consistently ranks among the top scripted shows. So while Harmon’s reduced role might sting, it’s not a death sentence.
What Fans Are Saying on Social Media
Mixed Emotions
Some fans are grateful to see Gibbs at all, while others say, “No Gibbs, no NCIS.” It’s clear that this change is sparking major debates online.
#GibbsForever Is Trending
The hashtag #GibbsForever has been making the rounds on Twitter and Instagram as fans share their favorite Gibbs moments in anticipation of his shorter appearance in Season 19.
The Legacy of Mark Harmon as Gibbs
The Moral Compass of the Show
Let’s be real—Gibbs is more than a character. He’s the anchor of NCIS, a man whose quiet strength, loyalty, and “Gibbs Rules” have shaped every single episode.
Why We’ll Always Love Him
Even if he appears less, his impact will never fade. Harmon’s portrayal of Gibbs has been iconic, stoic, and unforgettable.
Could This Be the Final Season for Gibbs?
Writers Might Prepare a Goodbye Arc
If this truly is the beginning of the end for Gibbs, we might see a beautifully written farewell arc—one that does justice to his legendary run.
Possible Storylines for His Exit
Could Gibbs retire? Go off the grid? Or meet a tragic fate? All options are on the table, and fans are bracing themselves.
Will NCIS Bring in a New Lead?
Casting Rumors Are Already Buzzing
There’s already chatter about new additions to the cast. Could CBS bring in a big name to carry the show forward?
Could a Female Lead Take the Helm?
With more shows spotlighting strong female leads, don’t be surprised if Agent Knight or a new character steps into the limelight.
What About NCIS Spin-Offs?
Expanding the NCIS Universe
With the success of NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, and now NCIS: Hawaiʻi, the franchise is far from slowing down.
Could Gibbs Appear in a Spin-Off?
A cameo or crossover is totally possible—even if Gibbs fades from the flagship show, his story may continue elsewhere.
How Will the Tone of the Show Change?
Expect a Fresh Narrative Direction
With Gibbs playing a reduced role, Season 19 might focus more on ensemble dynamics and deeper casework, possibly refreshing the show’s format.
Will Fans Stick Around Without Gibbs?
The Fanbase Is Strong, But Loyal to Gibbs
There’s no denying it—many viewers tune in just for Harmon. His limited presence could impact ratings, but it may also attract curious new viewers.
What Should Fans Expect in the Premiere Episode?
Big Surprises and Subtle Goodbyes
The premiere is expected to be emotionally charged, possibly laying the groundwork for Gibbs’ eventual departure while introducing major plotlines.
Final Thoughts—Change Is Hard, But It’s Also Growth
Whether you’re excited or nervous, one thing is clear: Season 19 marks a turning point for NCIS. The show has survived cast shakeups before, and it may just reinvent itself once again. And even if we see less of Gibbs, his presence will always loom large.
Conclusion
The renewal of NCIS for Season 19 is both exciting and a little bittersweet. With Mark Harmon taking a step back, fans are gearing up for big changes. But one thing remains true: the show’s spirit—its mystery, its loyalty, and its unforgettable team—is still alive. Whether it’s a fresh narrative or a powerful goodbye, Season 19 promises to be a game-changer.
