For over two decades, NCIS has kept fans hooked with gripping crime cases, intense drama, and a tight-knit cast of characters that feel like family. Now, as Season 23 gears up for its premiere, CBS has dropped the first official look at the main cast—but not without raising eyebrows. Two familiar faces are mysteriously absent, sparking speculation, concern, and curiosity from fans across the globe.
So, what exactly is going on behind the scenes of NCIS Season 23? Let’s dig in.
🚨 Breaking: CBS Releases Official NCIS Season 23 Cast Photo
Who’s In: Familiar Faces Return To Lead The Charge
The newly released cast image showcases many of the series’ current heavy-hitters:
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Sean Murray as Special Agent Timothy McGee
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Wilmer Valderrama as Special Agent Nick Torres
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Katrina Law as Jessica Knight
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Gary Cole as Supervisory Special Agent Alden Parker
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Diona Reasonover as Kasie Hines
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Brian Dietzen as Dr. Jimmy Palmer
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Rocky Carroll as Director Leon Vance
It’s clear that CBS is holding strong to its latest core lineup—but what’s notable is who isn’t standing alongside them.
😲 Missing In Action: Two Main Cast Members Absent From The Promo
Where Are David McCallum and Michael Weatherly?
Two major names are nowhere to be seen:
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David McCallum (Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard)
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Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo)
Fans instantly noticed their absence, and theories have been swirling online since the image dropped.
🧠 Let’s Talk Ducky: David McCallum’s Legacy
A Gentle Farewell or Just a Hiatus?
David McCallum has been a cornerstone of the series since episode one. At 90 years old, his role has gradually shifted to a more limited capacity, often appearing in small guest spots rather than as a full-time cast member. The absence in the promo may suggest a quiet retirement or possible send-off in Season 23.
Still, nothing official has been confirmed by CBS or McCallum’s reps.
🎬 Michael Weatherly: Teasing a Return or Gone for Good?
Social Media Hints & Fan Speculation
Michael Weatherly has been teasing NCIS-related content on social media for months, which had fans hopeful for a DiNozzo return. But now, with his name missing from the Season 23 materials, fans are wondering—was it all smoke and mirrors?
Could his absence simply be a surprise storyline being kept under wraps? Or is his return postponed?
🔍 Cast Absence vs. Permanent Departure: What’s The Difference?
Just because a character isn’t shown doesn’t mean they’re gone forever. Promo images typically highlight the main storyline’s core—not every guest or surprise appearance. It’s entirely possible that Ducky or DiNozzo show up later in the season.
💥 NCIS Season 23: What We Know So Far
New Story Arcs, Shifting Dynamics
With or without the missing characters, Season 23 is setting up for an intriguing new chapter. Executive producers have hinted at:
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Deeper character arcs for Parker and Knight
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Romantic tension between team members
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A major crossover event with NCIS: Hawai’i and NCIS: Sydney
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A shocking mid-season twist involving Torres’ past
📅 When Does NCIS Season 23 Premiere?
Mark your calendars! NCIS returns on Monday, September 23, 2025 at 9 PM ET/PT on CBS. It will also be available for streaming on Paramount+.
🔥 Fan Reactions: Twitter and Reddit Light Up
Mixed Emotions & Wild Theories
From Reddit threads to Twitter/X posts, fans are already going wild:
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“If Ducky’s not there, I’m gonna riot. That man is NCIS royalty.”
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“DiNozzo better be a surprise mid-season guest star. I’m not ready to say goodbye again!”
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“CBS knows what they’re doing. This cast photo is bait.”
💡 Could The Missing Actors Appear Later?
Cameos, Flashbacks, Or Surprise Episodes
CBS has a history of keeping big surprises secret until closer to airdate. It’s possible both McCallum and Weatherly may return via:
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Flashbacks
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Special holiday episodes
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The season finale
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Surprise crossover arcs
🎥 Behind The Scenes: Why Some Cast Members Step Back
Filming schedules, health considerations, and personal choices all impact who shows up regularly on screen. McCallum, for example, is enjoying semi-retirement, while Weatherly has been juggling other projects.
It’s not always about contract drama—sometimes it’s just life happening behind the curtain.
📝 CBS Speaks: The Official Statement (So Far)
As of now, CBS has not made an official comment regarding the two missing cast members. It’s clear they’re keeping certain details close to the chest, likely to preserve big reveals for the season itself.
💬 Final Thoughts: What This Means for the NCIS Legacy
NCIS has always evolved with its cast. From Gibbs’ retirement to Ziva’s surprise return, change is a part of the show’s DNA. While fans may be nervous about these absences, they should also trust that the writers know how to craft a season full of suspense, surprises, and emotional depth.
Conclusion: The NCIS Mystery Continues
The reveal of the Season 23 main cast has done exactly what a good teaser should: spark interest, ignite conversation, and keep fans guessing. Whether McCallum and Weatherly are gone for good or just waiting in the wings, NCIS is gearing up for a powerful new season. One thing’s for sure—fans will be tuning in every week, dissecting every clue, and holding out hope for those big comeback moments.
FAQs
1. Is David McCallum officially leaving NCIS in Season 23?
As of now, CBS hasn’t confirmed McCallum’s official departure. His absence from the promo may signal a reduced role or a surprise appearance later on.
2. Why is Michael Weatherly not in the Season 23 cast photo?
Michael Weatherly hasn’t been a series regular for some time, but his name continues to circulate due to fan theories and his own teases online. His absence may be strategic.
3. Who is leading the NCIS team now that Gibbs is gone?
Gary Cole’s character, Alden Parker, continues to lead the team as Supervisory Special Agent following Gibbs’ exit in Season 19.
4. Will NCIS Season 23 have any crossover episodes?
Yes, producers have hinted at a crossover event involving NCIS: Hawai’i and possibly NCIS: Sydney later in the season.
5. Where can I watch NCIS Season 23 online?
The season will air on CBS and will be available for streaming the next day on Paramount+.
Thank you for reading! Stay tuned for more updates on NCIS Season 23.
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