NCIS Season 23: The Ultimate Guide to What’s Coming Next
For over two decades, NCIS has ruled primetime television with gripping cases, unforgettable characters, and emotional plotlines. Now, with Season 23 officially confirmed, the excitement is sky-high. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or someone curious about where this legendary series is headed, we’re diving into everything we know about NCIS Season 23 — including returning cast members, shocking storylines, and release date rumors.
Let’s break it all down — no fluff, just facts and juicy details.
NCIS Season 23: Is It Confirmed?
Yes, it’s official — NCIS Season 23 is happening. CBS gave the green light thanks to the show’s continued success in ratings and a loyal fanbase that refuses to let go. The network announced the renewal in early 2025, signaling that this crime drama has no intention of slowing down.
NCIS Season 23 Release Date: When Will It Air?
So, when’s the premiere?
While CBS hasn’t released an exact date just yet, based on previous patterns, NCIS Season 23 is likely to debut in September 2025. The show typically airs in the fall, and there’s little reason to believe this tradition will break — unless the network has major scheduling shakeups.
Returning NCIS Cast Members for Season 23
Let’s talk about the crew. Who’s back on board?
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Sean Murray as Timothy McGee
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Wilmer Valderrama as Nick Torres
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Katrina Law as Jessica Knight
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Gary Cole as Alden Parker
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Diona Reasonover as Kasie Hines
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Brian Dietzen as Jimmy Palmer
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Rocky Carroll as Director Leon Vance
These familiar faces are expected to return, continuing the strong ensemble chemistry that fans love.
Will Mark Harmon Return as Gibbs in Season 23?
Now for the million-dollar question: Will Mark Harmon come back as Leroy Jethro Gibbs?
So far, there’s no official confirmation, but producers have teased that the door is “never closed” for Gibbs. Harmon still serves as an executive producer, and his character is alive and well — just retired in Alaska. Could a surprise appearance happen? It’s totally possible.
What Will Season 23 Be About?
Plot-wise, NCIS has always been a mix of case-of-the-week drama with ongoing character arcs. Season 23 promises more of the same — but deeper.
Expect:
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More focus on Torres’ psychological state after his intense Season 22 arc.
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Jimmy Palmer stepping into a new leadership role in the lab.
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Knight and Parker growing their working relationship — and maybe more?
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A few old faces returning for one-off or multi-episode arcs.
NCIS Season 22 Cliffhangers: What Needs Resolution
To understand where Season 23 is going, let’s rewind.
Season 22 ended with:
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Torres confronting demons from his past.
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A mysterious new villain teased in the final moments.
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Kasie revealing secrets about her lab research that could be game-changing.
All of this sets the stage for a more serialized narrative in Season 23, breaking away slightly from the standalone case formula.
NCIS Universe Expanding: Will ‘Origins’ Connect to Season 23?
With NCIS: Origins focusing on young Gibbs and Mike Franks, fans are wondering if the two shows will link up.
There’s potential for crossover lore, even if not direct character overlap. Easter eggs, references, and background info from Origins could fill in the gaps for Season 23’s more veteran characters.
Behind the Scenes: Showrunners & Writers Returning
Steven D. Binder returns as showrunner, and most of the writing team is intact. This continuity helps keep the tone consistent, while allowing room for new voices and ideas. There’s also chatter about guest directors — including NCIS alumni — coming in for select episodes.
New Character Additions in Season 23
Season 23 is rumored to introduce:
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A young tech-savvy field agent (Gen Z representation incoming?)
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A mysterious forensic psychologist
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A recurring villain with ties to Gibbs’ past
These additions will shake up the team dynamic and offer new story possibilities.
Is There a Trailer for NCIS Season 23 Yet?
Not yet. But we can expect a teaser by late summer 2025, likely during CBS’ promotional events. Until then, fans are dissecting the Season 22 finale and set leaks for clues.
Where to Watch NCIS Season 23
You’ll be able to catch new episodes:
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Live on CBS during its primetime slot
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Streaming on Paramount+ after airing
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Hulu and Amazon may offer delayed streaming access
Make sure to bookmark those platforms now.
What Are Fans Saying About Season 23?
Social media is buzzing. Here’s what fans are hyped about:
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The possible return of Gibbs
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Deeper story arcs for Torres and Knight
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More serialized storytelling instead of only procedural
The fandom’s expectations are high, and the writers know it.
Why NCIS Still Works After 20+ Years
What’s the secret sauce?
It’s a mix of:
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Character-driven stories
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Smart writing that balances drama with humor
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Strong ensemble chemistry
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Real-life inspired cases
And of course, a loyal fanbase that keeps tuning in.
Predictions for Season 23: Twists We Might See
Here’s what might go down:
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A shocking death that alters the team
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McGee contemplating retirement (or a promotion?)
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A major crossover with NCIS: Hawaii or NCIS: Sydney
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A flashback episode featuring young Gibbs (played by Austin Stowell)
Ratings Talk: Can Season 23 Keep NCIS on Top?
Absolutely. Even in Season 22, NCIS held its own against newer shows. If the writers pull off a strong narrative arc and maybe bring back a fan-favorite or two, Season 23 could easily dominate broadcast TV again.
Final Thoughts: Why NCIS Season 23 Is a Big Deal
NCIS isn’t just surviving — it’s thriving. Season 23 could be one of the most character-driven, emotional, and surprising entries yet. With old mysteries unresolved and new characters entering the fold, there’s no better time to jump back in.
Whether you’re here for the crime-solving, the emotional arcs, or just hoping to see Gibbs one more time — Season 23 is shaping up to be a must-watch.
❓ FAQs About NCIS Season 23
1. Will NCIS Season 23 be the final season of the show?
No official word yet. CBS hasn’t announced an endgame, and with strong ratings, there’s a good chance NCIS continues beyond Season 23.
2. Is there any chance Tony DiNozzo or Ziva David might return?
There’s always a chance. Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo have expressed interest in revisiting their roles — and fans are begging for it.
3. Will there be any crossover episodes in Season 23?
Possibly. CBS loves crossovers, and with NCIS: Hawaii and NCIS: Origins running, it’s a prime opportunity for inter-series synergy.
4. How many episodes will Season 23 have?
Expect a full order — usually around 20–22 episodes — unless external factors like strikes or production delays reduce the count.
5. Where can I watch older NCIS seasons to catch up before Season 23?
You can binge all previous seasons on Paramount+, Hulu, or purchase episodes via Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
