After months of speculation and anticipation, CBS has finally confirmed the premiere date for NCIS Season 23 — and it’s bringing more than just new episodes. A new air time, potential cast shifts, and evolving storylines mean this season is shaping up to be one of the most game-changing in years.
Here’s everything you need to know before the new season hits your screen.
When Does NCIS Season 23 Premiere?
The official premiere date for NCIS Season 23 is:
🗓️ Monday, September 22, 2025
🕗 New Time: 8:00 PM ET/PT on CBS
Yes, you read that right — NCIS is moving to an earlier time slot, marking a major shift from its long-held 9 PM position.
Why the Time Slot Change Matters
CBS’ Strategy Behind the Shift
CBS is reworking its Monday night lineup to boost new show performance and leverage NCIS’s massive fanbase as a prime-time lead-in. It will now serve as a launching pad for a brand-new legal thriller, District 12.
This marks a strategic pivot for CBS, betting that fans will tune in earlier — and stick around longer.
What’s the Theme of Season 23?
Season 23 will take a darker, more serialized approach, diving deep into:
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Cyberterrorism threats
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Political corruption within the Navy
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Character-driven arcs with psychological depth
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Long-form cases spread across multiple episodes
Expect fewer “case-of-the-week” formats and more interconnected storylines.
Who’s Returning in NCIS Season 23?
✅ Confirmed Returning Cast:
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Sean Murray as Timothy McGee
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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 (with a reduced role)
🚪 Possibly Departing or Limited Appearances:
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Wilmer Valderrama (Nick Torres): Due to scheduling conflicts, Torres may appear in a limited arc or exit early in the season.
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David McCallum (Ducky): Though his screen time was already reduced, tributes or a character send-off may happen this season.
New Characters Joining the Cast
Two brand-new agents will be introduced to shake up the team dynamic:
Agent Caleb Reed
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A former Navy SEAL with a mysterious past
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Cold, calculated, and mission-first
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Brings tension and tactical intensity to the groupAgent Talia Grant
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A young cryptologist from Naval Intelligence
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Quirky, brilliant, and emotionally intuitive — a clear nod to Abby Sciuto’s legacy
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Quickly becomes Kasie’s closest ally in the lab
What to Expect in the First Few Episodes
Episode 1 opens with a cyberattack on a naval aircraft carrier, triggering a multi-agency investigation. By Episode 3, the team will be split across continents, dealing with both domestic threats and international conspiracies.
And yes, there’s at least one character betrayal brewing.
Will There Be Any Goodbyes?
CBS hasn’t confirmed any official exits, but insiders hint that one major character could be written out by mid-season. Fan theories point to Torres or even McGee potentially taking a desk job or overseas position.
Will There Be Crossovers This Season?
While no formal crossover has been announced, whispers from the writing room suggest possible tie-ins with:
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NCIS: Sydney
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A rumored new NCIS European-based series (TBA)
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A potential Ducky tribute episode, possibly including flashbacks and legacy characters
What the Cast Is Saying About Season 23
Sean Murray (McGee):
“This season really digs into who we are when the badge comes off. It’s personal.”
Katrina Law (Knight):
“We’re taking risks this year. The stakes are higher, and the stories hit harder.”
Ratings Pressure — Can NCIS Stay #1?
Despite being over two decades old, NCIS continues to dominate ratings. The network hopes the earlier slot can expand its reach, especially among younger viewers who may tune in earlier.
What This Means for Longtime Fans
If you’ve been with NCIS since the days of Gibbs, you’ll notice this season feels both familiar and fresh. While the tone is evolving, the core of the show — justice, loyalty, and team chemistry — remains intact.
How to Watch NCIS Season 23
You can watch the premiere of NCIS Season 23:
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Live on CBS at 8/7c
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Streaming next-day on Paramount+
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On-demand via your cable provider or CBS.com
📝 Conclusion: Change Is Coming — But NCIS Is Still NCIS
With new agents, a bold time slot move, and richer story arcs, NCIS Season 23 is poised to evolve — without losing its soul. Fans should expect deeper character dives, more serialized drama, and unexpected turns.
So mark the date, reset your DVRs, and get ready. The next chapter of NCIS begins Monday, September 22 at 8/7c.
❓FAQs
1. What day and time will NCIS Season 23 air?
NCIS will air Mondays at 8/7c beginning September 22, 2025.
2. Why did NCIS change time slots?
CBS wants to use NCIS as a stronger lead-in for new programming and draw more viewers to Monday night.
3. Is Wilmer Valderrama leaving NCIS?
Not officially, but he may have a reduced role due to outside commitments.
4. Will NCIS Season 23 have any crossover episodes?
Possibly! Rumors hint at a NCIS: Sydney tie-in or a tribute involving legacy characters.
5. Where can I stream NCIS episodes?
You can stream episodes on Paramount+ or watch live via CBS.
