The latest season of NCIS has taken viewers on a grittier ride, with higher stakes and more personal consequences than in recent years. And judging by the ratings bump, the gamble is paying off.
A Shift in Tone
From its earliest seasons, NCIS balanced light banter with intense investigations. But Season 23 leans more heavily into suspense, giving cases a rawer, more unpredictable edge. Episodes have tackled cyber warfare, military espionage, and even rogue agents within NCIS itself.
More Danger for the Team
This season, no character feels completely safe. One midseason cliffhanger saw Torres (Wilmer Valderrama) framed for a crime he didn’t commit, sparking one of the show’s tensest arcs in years.
Why Fans Are Hooked Again
Longtime viewers say the heightened tension brings back the same “must-watch” feeling the series had in its early years. Social media buzz is full of praise for the sharper writing and unpredictable twists.
Keeping NCIS Fresh
With nearly 500 episodes in the vault, keeping things fresh is a challenge. But Season 23 proves that the right mix of darker storytelling and strong character arcs can make even a 20-year-old show feel brand new.
