After an underwhelming Halloween detour, NCIS returns to fine form with Season 23, Episode 4. “Gone Girls,” directed by star Rocky Carroll and penned by multi-hyphenate Amy Rutberg, is a very serious story that tugs at the heartstrings. It also gets a serious boost from its guest stars Denise G. Sanchez and Nazneen Contractor.
Sanchez, who recently wrapped her starring role as Reina Vasquez in Bosch: Legacy, is just as tough playing Marine Sergeant Molly Delgado. She has a fantastic introduction, easily defending herself against a man who seems like he’s about to assault her—only for the audience to learn he was trying to warn her about the real threat in the back seat of her car. Even when Molly is giving NCIS the silent treatment, Sanchez creates a character with strength and poise.
It’s a shame that because Molly has to be so tight-lipped, Sanchez doesn’t get to completely show off her range, but the end result is someone that the viewer wants to see return someday… which is a pretty big accomplishment on a procedural, where “case of the week” characters usually have finite development. NCIS would be wise to bring her back, if someone else hasn’t scooped Sanchez up to be a series regular again.
Contractor (best known for her work on 24 and in the Chicago PD episode that served as the backdoor pilot for Chicago Justice) is stuck initially with a stereotypical FBI agent character. It’s also a habit in the procedural genre that most characters working for any outside agency are antagonistic, and Contractor’s Agent Beth Rollins is no exception. (The later scene where Jessica Knight and Alden Parker try to distract Rollins and her team with baked goods is groan-worthy in how it utilizes that cliche.) But as “Gone Girls” goes on and the plot unspools, Rollins becomes more three-dimensional.
After over two decades of crime-solving brilliance, NCIS continues to surprise fans. Season 23, Episode 4 proves that this beloved procedural drama still has plenty of heart, tension, and grit left to give. This episode isn’t just another case-of-the-week — it’s a touching reminder of why NCIS remains one of television’s most enduring crime series. And surprisingly, a major part of its emotional punch comes from the guest appearance of a Bosch: Legacy star who brings raw authenticity and gravitas to the storyline.
So, what makes this episode such a standout? Let’s dive deep into why NCIS Season 23, Episode 4 is being hailed as a “return to form” by fans and critics alike.
The Emotional Core of Episode 4
A Case That Hits Close to Home
The writers of NCIS have always excelled at blending mystery with emotion, and Episode 4 is no exception. The team is drawn into a case that feels intensely personal, blurring the line between professional duty and personal empathy. The story delves into themes of redemption, loss, and justice — the kind of emotional terrain NCIS navigates best.
Bringing Humanity Back to the Investigation
One of the episode’s strongest qualities is its ability to humanize the investigation. Every clue, every suspect, and every interview carries emotional weight. It’s not just about solving a crime; it’s about understanding the people behind it. That’s where the influence of the Bosch: Legacy star truly shines.
The Bosch: Legacy Connection
A Guest Star with Gravitas
This week’s guest star from Bosch: Legacy is none other than [actor’s name placeholder—Bosch: Legacy star], whose powerful performance injects fresh life into the narrative. Known for portraying complex, morally gray characters, the actor perfectly fits into NCIS’s world of layered storytelling.
Why This Collaboration Works So Well
The crossover energy between Bosch: Legacy and NCIS feels organic. Both shows share DNA — gritty realism, nuanced characters, and deep respect for law enforcement’s challenges. The guest appearance doesn’t feel like a gimmick; it feels earned. The emotional chemistry between the NCIS cast and the guest star anchors the episode in authenticity.
The Return of Classic NCIS Storytelling
Sharp Writing and Character Depth
Longtime fans have noticed a shift in tone — NCIS Season 23, Episode 4 harkens back to the show’s golden years. The dialogue is sharp, the pacing tight, and every character moment feels intentional. Gibbs’ legacy, though absent, echoes through the team’s moral compass, reminding viewers of the show’s core values.
Balancing Old and New
The episode balances nostalgia with progress. While honoring the show’s history, it also pushes characters like Parker and Knight into emotionally challenging territory. It’s this blend of familiarity and freshness that makes the episode so engaging.
The Power of Performance
Gary Cole’s Commanding Presence
Gary Cole continues to impress as Agent Alden Parker. His calm yet commanding leadership anchors the team during turbulent moments. In this episode, his subtle emotional beats elevate the script, showing that NCIS still thrives on strong, character-driven storytelling.
Katrina Law and Wilmer Valderrama Shine
Knight (Katrina Law) and Torres (Wilmer Valderrama) bring emotional vulnerability and humor in equal measure. Their dynamic feels natural and human — two agents trying to find balance amid chaos. Their scenes add warmth to an otherwise tense narrative.
The Writing Team’s Redemption Arc
A Return to Emotional Depth
Season 23’s early episodes received mixed reactions, with some fans worrying that NCIS was losing its emotional edge. Episode 4 proves those fears unfounded. The writing team has clearly refocused on what matters: heart, moral conflict, and authentic character growth.
Nuanced Themes of Justice and Forgiveness
This episode tackles big questions: Can justice and forgiveness coexist? What does redemption look like for those who’ve made grave mistakes? It’s classic NCIS — not afraid to make viewers think and feel at the same time.
The Cinematic Upgrade
Stunning Visual Direction
The cinematography deserves applause. Every shot feels deliberate, with lighting and framing that heighten the emotional impact. The scenes between Parker and the guest star are filmed like an indie drama — intimate, raw, and real.
