If you’re an NCIS fan, buckle up. The Season 22 finale promises to be one of the most emotional episodes in the show’s long history, and Wilmer Valderrama — who plays fan-favorite Nick Torres — is warning us ahead of time. In his own words, it’s an “earth-shattering” loss that will change everything.
Curious? Let’s break down exactly what this reveal means, why it matters, and how it’s set to shake the foundation of NCIS as we know it.
What Did Wilmer Valderrama Reveal About the Finale?
Valderrama didn’t mince words. He recently shared that the NCIS Season 22 finale delivers a loss so devastating that it will ripple across every character, not just Torres.
The Warning Fans Didn’t See Coming
In interviews, Valderrama hinted that fans should prepare emotionally — and if you’ve been following the series, you know that’s no small statement. We’re talking about a show that has killed off beloved characters, seen shocking betrayals, and delivered gut-wrenching exits. So for Valderrama to call this particular loss “earth-shattering”? That’s next-level.
Who Could Be at Risk?
Torres’ Inner Circle
Let’s be real: Torres has had a rocky journey. Between his family drama, on-again-off-again relationships, and battles with guilt, his inner circle has always been his rock. Could someone close to Torres be the one we lose?
Gibbs’ Legacy Still Hangs Over the Team
Even though Gibbs (Mark Harmon) has stepped away, his presence still looms large. Could the finale deliver a blow tied to his legacy? Maybe someone tied to Gibbs’ past comes back… or doesn’t make it out alive.
Why the Finale Matters So Much
Setting Up Season 23
Here’s the kicker: finales aren’t just about wrapping up storylines — they set the tone for what’s next. Valderrama’s comments suggest we’re in for a major shift heading into Season 23.
Emotional Stakes Have Never Been Higher
With so many characters’ personal and professional lives on the line, the stakes are sky-high. And fans love it — because when NCIS hits hard emotionally, it delivers some of its most iconic moments.
The History of Shocking NCIS Finales
Kate Todd’s Death — A Series-Changer
Long-time fans remember the shocking moment when Kate Todd (Sasha Alexander) was killed — it forever changed the tone of the series.
Ziva’s Exit — Heartbreak Revisited
Ziva David (Cote de Pablo) had her own emotional departure that shattered fans. Could Torres or another beloved character follow a similar path?
Wilmer Valderrama’s Emotional Connection to Torres
How Torres Has Grown Over the Seasons
Valderrama has openly discussed how personal Torres’ journey has become for him. Torres started off as a bit of a lone wolf but has slowly become part of the NCIS family.
Why This Loss Feels So Personal
Valderrama’s choice of words — calling the finale “earth-shattering” — hints that Torres won’t just be professionally shaken, but personally devastated.
Fan Theories About the Finale
Will Torres Walk Away?
Some fans speculate that Torres himself may step away after this loss, especially if it pushes him over the emotional edge.
A Core Team Member’s Death?
Others believe a core team member could die, leading to a team shakeup unlike anything we’ve seen in years.
Why This Finale Could Define NCIS’ Future
New Leadership, New Challenges
With NCIS continually evolving, the show’s creators seem to be steering into a darker, more emotionally intense direction.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
Even after 22 seasons, NCIS knows how to keep fans hooked — by not playing it safe. This finale looks like it’s doubling down on that formula.
Behind the Scenes: How Valderrama Teased the Storyline
An Interview That Sparked Fan Panic
In a recent press junket, Valderrama’s comments spread like wildfire across social media. Fans began dissecting every word, looking for clues.
Why the Cast Is Keeping Quiet
The tight-lipped nature of the cast only adds to the tension. Nobody’s giving away spoilers, which has fans even more on edge.
Social Media Reacts to the Shocking Tease
Twitter Fans Brace for Impact
On Twitter, fans are theorizing nonstop, with hashtags like #NCISFinale and #SaveTorres trending ahead of the episode.
TikTok Edits and Fan Theories Explode
TikTok has been flooded with fan edits and prediction videos, with creators speculating everything from Torres’ death to surprise Gibbs cameos.
What We Can Expect in Season 23
Picking Up the Pieces
Season 23 will have to deal with the aftermath of this loss. How will the team rebuild? Who will step into leadership roles?
More Character-Driven Stories
Fans can likely expect deeper dives into character development, especially if Torres is left emotionally scarred.
Why Valderrama’s Tease Has Everyone Talking
The Power of Emotional Storytelling
NCIS isn’t just about solving crimes — it’s about human connection. Valderrama’s warning taps into the heart of what makes the show resonate with audiences.
A Reminder That No One Is Safe
By teasing an “earth-shattering” loss, Valderrama reminds us that even after two decades, NCIS can still surprise its viewers.
The Emotional Weight of Long-Running TV Shows
Why Fans Feel So Deeply Connected
When you’ve spent years following a show, the characters feel like family. A major loss hits harder because you’ve been invested for so long.
The Fine Line Between Drama and Overkill
The challenge for the writers? Delivering emotional punches without alienating the audience. Valderrama’s comments suggest they’re walking that line carefully.
Conclusion: Prepare for Impact
If you’re an NCIS fan, one thing’s clear — the Season 22 finale is not to be missed. Wilmer Valderrama’s warning isn’t just promo hype; it’s a signal that we’re about to experience a game-changing moment in the NCIS universe. Get ready to laugh, cry, and probably yell at your TV, because this finale is set to leave us all reeling.
FAQs
1. Who does Wilmer Valderrama play on NCIS?
Wilmer Valderrama plays Special Agent Nick Torres, a complex character known for his tough exterior but deeply emotional core.
2. When will the NCIS Season 22 finale air?
The finale is scheduled to air later this month on CBS; check your local listings for the exact date and time.
3. Is Mark Harmon returning for the finale?
As of now, there’s no official confirmation that Mark Harmon (Gibbs) will appear, but fans are always hopeful for a surprise cameo.
4. Will Torres leave NCIS after the finale?
While Wilmer Valderrama has hinted at emotional turmoil, there’s no official word on whether Torres will exit the show.
5. How can I watch past NCIS episodes?
You can stream past episodes on platforms like Paramount+, or catch reruns on CBS and affiliated networks.
