NCIS Season 22 Spring Premiere Review: A Filler Episode Wastes This CSI: NY Star
NCIS returned for its highly anticipated Season 22 spring premiere, but instead of delivering a thrilling case, it served up a disappointing filler episode that completely squandered the talents of a beloved CSI: NY star. Fans expected an explosive return after the break, but instead, they got a lackluster plot that failed to justify the hype.
So, what went wrong? Let’s break it down.
A Slow Return After the Winter Break
NCIS fans had been eagerly waiting for the show to pick up steam after the midseason break. However, the spring premiere felt more like a placeholder than a return to form. The pacing was sluggish, the stakes were low, and there was little to no advancement in the overarching storylines.
After months of speculation, the show had a chance to shake things up—but it simply played it safe.
Wasted Potential: A CSI: NY Star Deserved More
One of the biggest disappointments? The complete underutilization of a CSI: NY veteran who guest-starred in the episode.
This actor, known for their commanding screen presence and crime drama expertise, should have been a major asset. Instead, they were given a forgettable role that barely scratched the surface of their abilities. Their character was flat, underdeveloped, and ultimately unmemorable—a glaring missed opportunity for the show.
Why bring in such a recognizable face just to waste them on a minor role?
The Case-of-the-Week Fell Flat
The procedural aspect of NCIS is what keeps many fans coming back, but this week’s case lacked intrigue and depth.
- The investigation felt formulaic with no real surprises.
- The suspects were one-dimensional and predictable.
- The resolution was rushed and unsatisfying.
At its best, NCIS is a show that balances character development with compelling mysteries. Unfortunately, this episode failed to deliver on either front.
A Filler Episode in a Season That Needed Momentum
With NCIS Season 22 being such a pivotal chapter for the series, every episode should feel like it matters. Instead, this installment felt like an unnecessary detour.
Rather than pushing any major arcs forward, it treaded water. Fans expecting developments in Gibbs’ legacy, Parker’s leadership, or McGee’s ongoing challenges were left with nothing of significance.
Character Moments That Didn’t Hit the Mark
Even when the cases are weak, NCIS has a way of making up for it with strong character moments. Sadly, this episode fell short there too.
- Parker’s leadership was once again sidelined.
- Torres and Knight’s dynamic was barely explored.
- Kasie and Jimmy had minimal screen time.
With such a rich ensemble cast, it’s baffling that the episode didn’t take the time to give them meaningful moments.
A Disappointing Start to the Spring Run
If this episode was meant to set the tone for the rest of the season, that’s concerning. NCIS can’t afford to coast on its reputation—it needs to bring fresh, exciting storytelling to the table.
With fan expectations high and competition fierce in the TV landscape, the show must avoid filler episodes like this one if it wants to stay relevant.
What NCIS Needs to Do Moving Forward
How can NCIS get back on track after this misstep?
1. Stop Wasting Guest Stars
Bringing in a well-known CSI: NY actor should have been a big deal. Moving forward, NCIS must ensure that guest stars are given roles that matter.
2. Deliver High-Stakes Cases
Procedural dramas thrive on compelling mysteries. The show must step up its case-of-the-week writing and bring more creativity to its crime-solving.
3. Develop Long-Term Story Arcs
Fans want to see character growth, unresolved conflicts, and long-term mysteries unfold. Filler episodes derail that momentum.
4. Give Every Character a Purpose
The ensemble cast is the heart of the show. Instead of sidelining key players, NCIS should give each character meaningful screen time.
5. Keep the Energy High
With many crime dramas vying for attention, NCIS can’t afford to be predictable or slow. The writing must stay sharp, fast-paced, and engaging.
Final Verdict: A Letdown Episode That NCIS Must Learn From
While NCIS remains a powerhouse in the crime procedural genre, this spring premiere was one of the weakest episodes in recent memory. It felt uninspired, unnecessary, and ultimately forgettable.
The misuse of a major CSI: NY star only added to the disappointment, proving that big-name guest stars alone can’t save a poorly written episode.
Fans deserve better, and hopefully, NCIS will bounce back in the coming episodes. Otherwise, it risks alienating its loyal audience just when it needs them the most.
FAQs
1. Which CSI: NY star appeared in NCIS Season 22’s spring premiere?
The episode featured a well-known CSI: NY veteran, but their role was disappointingly minor and lacked impact.
2. Why was this episode considered a filler?
It didn’t contribute to any major storylines, featured a weak case-of-the-week, and failed to advance character arcs in a meaningful way.
3. How did fans react to the episode?
Many viewers expressed frustration on social media, feeling that the episode was a waste of a talented guest star and lacked excitement.
4. What does NCIS need to do to improve?
The show needs to write stronger cases, develop ongoing story arcs, give characters more depth, and ensure that guest stars are used effectively.
5. Is NCIS losing its touch?
While NCIS still has a strong fanbase, episodes like this raise concerns about its ability to keep delivering fresh, compelling content. The show must avoid filler episodes and keep up its high storytelling standards.
NCIS can still turn things around, but it needs to take the feedback seriously. If the next episodes follow this filler pattern, the show could risk losing its audience’s trust. Here’s hoping it course-corrects before it’s too late.
