Introduction: Is NCIS Finally Listening to Fans?
You could say it’s been a rocky road for NCIS Season 22. While the show has maintained its solid procedural formula, fans have been vocal about one consistent issue—the villain arc just hasn’t hit the mark. Episode 17, titled “Stranger in a Strange Land,” tries to course-correct. And while it doesn’t totally stick the landing, it gets pretty darn close.
Let’s dive into what worked, what missed the mark, and whether NCIS is finally addressing its most glaring Season 22 problem: its underwhelming villain.
A Quick Recap of NCIS Season 22, Episode 17
Title and Air Date
Episode Title: Stranger in a Strange Land
Original Air Date: May 6, 2025
Writer: Kimberly-Rose Wolter
Director: Rocky Carroll
Plot Overview
In this episode, the team investigates a bizarre murder at a U.S. Navy base that’s connected to a larger domestic terrorism ring. What’s different this time? The villain finally has a bit more depth—and the storyline gives us a few long-overdue answers.
The Villain Evolution We’ve Been Waiting For
Why Season 22’s Antagonist Fell Flat
Up until now, the show’s “big bad”—a faceless group of cyber-criminals—felt more like filler than real threat. Motivations were vague, appearances were brief, and there was no personal connection to the core team. Fans couldn’t engage with someone who felt more like a plot device than a person.
Episode 17 Adds Some Much-Needed Texture
Finally, we meet a flesh-and-blood antagonist with a name, a face, and—gasp—a motive. We’re introduced to Byron Mallory, a former intelligence officer turned domestic radical. His ideology is extreme, but believable, and that’s what makes him feel more real than anything the show has offered so far this season.
Character Arcs That Carried the Episode
Parker’s Leadership Hits a High Note
Special Agent Alden Parker (Gary Cole) anchors the episode with authority. His internal conflict—whether to follow orders or trust his gut—adds genuine tension. His moments of moral uncertainty humanize him, something the show has occasionally struggled to do since Gibbs left.
Torres Shows Growth, Not Just Grit
Wilmer Valderrama’s Nick Torres finally breaks from his usual tough-guy routine. We get a scene where Torres confides in Dr. Jimmy Palmer about a mistake he made during a past undercover op—offering vulnerability without feeling forced.
Jessica Knight’s Emotional Drive
Katrina Law’s Agent Knight carries the emotional subplot this week. Her personal connection to a victim gives her scenes more weight and lets us see the emotional toll this work can take. It’s subtle, but effective.
The Writing: A Step in the Right Direction
Dialogue That Doesn’t Feel Robotic
Unlike some earlier Season 22 episodes, the script here actually breathes. Characters talk like real people, not exposition machines. There are even moments of levity—something sorely missed in previous episodes.
Tighter Plotting Helps the Pacing
This episode doesn’t meander. Every scene has purpose, and the tension escalates naturally. We finally get that balance between mystery, team dynamics, and action that NCIS does best when it’s on its game.
What Still Needs Work?
The Villain’s Late Arrival Still Hurts
As much as Byron Mallory improves the arc, his appearance this late in the season limits the impact. It’s like building a house and installing the foundation last—it’s better than nothing, but still a structural problem.
Missed Opportunities for Interpersonal Conflict
This was a golden chance to push the team to its limits emotionally, but the writers played it safe. A betrayal subplot or a moral dilemma could have added depth, but those beats were largely absent.
Visuals and Directing That Delivered
Rocky Carroll’s Confident Direction
Rocky Carroll, who also plays Vance, directed this episode with a steady hand. From tight close-ups during interrogation to wide, atmospheric shots of the Navy base, every scene had weight. His actor’s eye shows in the way emotions are captured on screen.
Lighting and Cinematography Were Top-Tier
There’s a noticeable uptick in visual polish. The shadowy lighting in Mallory’s hideout scenes gave a gritty, almost noir feel—something we haven’t seen much of in NCIS, but it totally worked here.
The Return of Classic NCIS Vibes
Team Banter Is Back
Remember when the team actually joked around? Episode 17 brings some of that camaraderie back. McGee drops a sarcastic one-liner. Jimmy shares a fun science fact. Even Knight chuckles. It’s these little things that make NCIS feel like NCIS again.
A Balanced Blend of Case and Character
This episode finds that elusive sweet spot—enough procedural content to satisfy crime drama fans, and enough character development to keep long-time viewers emotionally invested.
Fans React: A Divided Response
Praise for the Villain Upgrade
Social media lit up with comments like, “Finally, a villain with a brain!” and “More of this, please.” It’s clear that fans noticed the improvement and appreciated the darker, more complex tone.
Others Say It’s Too Late
Still, not everyone’s sold. Critics argue that one good episode can’t fix an entire season’s worth of lackluster villains. And they’re not wrong. It’s an uphill battle, and Episode 17 is just the first step.
Is This a Turning Point for NCIS Season 22?
A Course Correction, But Not a Redemption
Episode 17 shows that the writers are paying attention. They’re trying to give the audience more of what made NCIS great. But one episode can’t erase an entire season’s flaws. It’s a promising start, but the next few episodes will determine if the show can truly turn things around.
Conclusion: The Fix Is in the Works, but It’s Not Done Yet
NCIS Season 22, Episode 17, is a clear signal that the show wants to evolve. The villain finally has depth. The dialogue feels alive. The characters actually grow. It’s not perfect, but it’s progress.
If the show continues in this direction, it could finish Season 22 on a high note. But if it slips back into safe, formulaic territory, then this episode will stand as a frustrating glimpse of what could’ve been.
5 Unique FAQs
1. Who is the main villain in NCIS Season 22, Episode 17?
The episode introduces Byron Mallory, a former intel officer turned domestic extremist, giving the season its most developed villain so far.
2. Was this episode directed by someone from the cast?
Yes, Rocky Carroll, who plays Director Vance, directed this episode with a strong cinematic touch.
3. Does this episode finally fix the season’s villain problem?
It’s a big improvement, but calling it a total fix would be premature. It lays the groundwork, but more consistency is needed.
4. What standout character moments occur in Episode 17?
Torres opens up emotionally, Parker faces moral conflict, and Knight connects personally to the case—adding rich layers to the narrative.
5. Is NCIS Season 22 worth watching based on this episode?
If Episode 17 is a sign of what’s to come, then yes—it’s worth sticking around to see if the show fully reclaims its former glory.
