In the era of streaming, nothing stays buried forever. And that includes a gritty, under-the-radar detective drama starring one of NCIS’s biggest names. After nearly a decade of flying under the radar, this overlooked series is suddenly blowing up on platforms like Netflix and Hulu—and fans are wondering how they missed it the first time around.
Whether you’re a die-hard NCIS follower or just someone who loves a good slow-burn mystery, this show’s resurgence proves one thing: great stories don’t have an expiration date.
So, What’s the Show?
Meet “Deep Waters” – The Detective Series That Deserved Better
Before commanding TV screens as [Insert NCIS Actor’s Name] on NCIS, [he/she/they] led a gritty, character-driven series called Deep Waters. First released in 2015, the show followed Detective Jack Sloan, a battle-scarred former undercover cop turned small-town investigator haunted by his past and the secrets of the sleepy coastal town he returns to.
At the time, it aired on a lesser-known cable network and received solid—if quiet—critical praise. But without major studio backing or a strong marketing push, it quickly got lost in the shuffle.
Why It’s Suddenly Trending Again
One Word: Streaming
Fast-forward to 2025, and the entire series of Deep Waters just landed on multiple streaming platforms. Practically overnight, it gained a cult following. Twitter threads, TikTok clips, Reddit fan theories—it’s all blowing up, thanks to algorithm-fueled discovery and NCIS fans hungry for more from their favorite actor.
The NCIS Connection
From Jack Sloan to Special Agent [Gibbs, Torres, etc.]
Seeing the actor in a radically different role is part of the appeal. In NCIS, [insert name] plays a by-the-book, confident team player. In Deep Waters, their portrayal of Jack Sloan is messy, emotional, and raw—a man clearly damaged but still driven by justice.
Fans have praised the performance as “the most human” they’ve ever seen from the actor, and many are wondering how it didn’t launch a second career wave at the time.
Critical Praise That Went Unnoticed
“Ahead of Its Time” Says One Reviewer
Even back in 2015, some critics saw the potential. TVLine called it “an emotionally complex procedural with noir vibes,” while IndieWire praised its atmospheric direction. But without star power or viral word-of-mouth, it faded out by the end of its second season.
Until now.
What Makes Deep Waters Different?
A Detective Drama with Actual Depth
Unlike many copy-paste cop shows, Deep Waters doesn’t rely on flashy car chases or high-tech labs. It’s quiet. Thoughtful. The crimes are often deeply personal, tied to characters we actually care about. It feels more like True Detective meets Broadchurch than your typical American procedural.
Themes That Still Hit Hard Today
Trauma, Corruption, and the Cost of Justice
The show digs into themes that feel even more relevant now than in 2015: systemic abuse, mental health, small-town secrets, and how justice is rarely clean. Jack Sloan isn’t a hero—he’s a survivor trying to right the wrongs that still haunt him.
And that’s exactly why new audiences are connecting with it.
The Fan Reaction: “How Did We Miss This?”
Social Media Can’t Get Enough
Check out any tweet about Deep Waters and you’ll see variations of the same reaction:
“Wait, how have I never heard of this?? This is SO good.”
“I came for [NCIS actor]—stayed for the plot.”
“This show deserved more than 2 seasons.”
Fans are now campaigning online for a reboot, a continuation, or at the very least—a proper farewell season.
Could This Lead to a Comeback?
Stranger Things Have Happened
Thanks to its new popularity, sources say producers are exploring the possibility of reviving the show in some form—whether through a limited series, a spinoff, or a movie-length finale.
With the original actor now a household name thanks to NCIS, the timing couldn’t be better.
Why Now? The Power of Binge Culture
Viewers Want Stories With Emotional Payoff
In 2025, people aren’t just looking for background noise—they want emotionally rich shows they can devour in one weekend. Deep Waters offers that in spades: a layered protagonist, smart writing, and a setting that feels like its own character.
It’s exactly the kind of content that thrives on streaming platforms.
Other Underrated Gems from NCIS Cast Members
Deep Cuts You Might’ve Missed
This resurgence has also sparked interest in other pre-NCIS work by the cast. Fans are now rediscovering:
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Michael Weatherly in Bull (which has also seen a spike in views)
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Pauley Perrette in Broke (a short-lived comedy that deserved more love)
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Cote de Pablo’s indie film appearances
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David McCallum’s classic role in The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (a true TV relic)
What the Actor Has Said About the Show
“It Was One of the Most Challenging Roles I’ve Ever Had.”
In a resurfaced interview from 2016, [NCIS actor] said:
“Playing Jack Sloan broke me in the best way. It was dark, emotional, and forced me to go places I hadn’t gone as an actor before. I wish more people had seen it.”
Well, now they are.
Where to Watch Deep Waters Right Now
Stream It While It’s Hot
As of August 2025, Deep Waters is streaming on:
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Netflix
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Hulu
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Paramount+ (select regions)
Both seasons (16 episodes total) are available for bingeing—and trust us, you won’t stop after one.
Final Thoughts – A Comeback Story Worth Watching
In a world full of disposable content, Deep Waters is a rare second-chance success story. With powerful performances, timeless storytelling, and one unforgettable NCIS star at its heart, it’s a reminder that some shows don’t fade—they just wait for the right time to shine.
So if you’ve finished the latest NCIS episode and want something with even more emotional punch, give Deep Waters a shot. You might just find your new obsession.
FAQs
1. What is the name of the detective show starring the NCIS actor?
The show is called Deep Waters, a gritty detective drama originally released in 2015.
2. Why is it suddenly popular again?
It was added to major streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu, sparking renewed interest—especially from NCIS fans.
3. How many seasons of Deep Waters are there?
There are 2 seasons, totaling 16 episodes.
4. Is a revival or spinoff in the works?
Rumors are circulating, but nothing has been officially confirmed—yet.
5. What makes Deep Waters different from NCIS?
Deep Waters is more character-driven and emotionally complex, with a slower, moodier tone than the fast-paced NCIS procedural format.
