The world’s most-watched crime drama is entering uncharted territory. As NCIS gears up for its landmark 23rd season, the CBS juggernaut is promising to put its characters front and center like never before—and it’s shaking up the cast to make it happen.
A Bold New Direction
Showrunner Steven D. Binder teased that this will be “the most character-forward season in the show’s history.” While the cases of the week will still anchor the series, Season 23 will dive deeper into the lives, struggles, and relationships of the Major Case Response Team.
“If you’re invested in these people, this is going to be the season for you,” Binder said.
New Addition: Nancy Travis Joins as Parker’s Sister
The biggest casting surprise? Veteran actress Nancy Travis is joining the cast as Vice Admiral Harriet Parker, the older sister of Gary Cole’s Alden Parker. Their reunion will spark heavy family drama, especially after the murder of their father in last season’s finale.
Binder revealed that Harriet and Alden embody opposite ends of the sibling spectrum: “He was the troubled kid; she was the good kid. That dynamic shaped who they became, and now it’s colliding head-on.”
Returning Cast Members
Seven series regulars are confirmed to return, each with storylines primed for deeper exploration:
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Sean Murray (Timothy McGee) – Tech genius McGee is eyeing a long-awaited promotion after a season filled with injury, betrayal, and loyalty tests.
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Wilmer Valderrama (Nick Torres) – Torres faces his most emotional arc yet, balancing loyalty, loss, and unresolved personal drama.
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Gary Cole (Alden Parker) – Still reeling from his father’s murder, Parker will confront grief, family conflict, and visions that push him toward darker choices.
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Brian Dietzen (Jimmy Palmer) – The heart of NCIS, Palmer will navigate his daughter, his bond with the team, and the will-they-won’t-they tension with Jessica Knight.
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Diona Reasonover (Kasie Hines) – Confident and witty, Kasie is stepping further into leadership while continuing to ground the team with her sharp forensics.
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Katrina Law (Jessica Knight) – Knight will wrestle with unfinished business with Palmer and an intensified role in the field.
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Rocky Carroll (Leon Vance) – The team’s stalwart director returns as the anchor between NCIS headquarters and Washington power players.
When It Premieres
NCIS Season 23 kicks off Tuesday, October 14 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS. With deeper character arcs, a major new addition, and the fallout from Season 22’s shocking finale, this season promises to be one of the show’s boldest yet.
