NCIS fans are about to say goodbye to a belove character. Wilmer Valderrama revealed one of the CBS crime drama’s mainstays will die during the upcoming season 22 finale. Noting that the Aprill 28 episode left viewers with “big, big questions” during a May 1 interview on CBS Mornings, the That ’70s Show alum promised the May 5 finale will answer those cliff-hangers and more. “Somebody does die,” Valderrama—who plays Special Agent Nick Torres on the long-running series—teased. “Somebody dies—and it’s not the murder of the week. It’s somebody, unfortunately, very close to us, and it’s going to be very earth-shattering and really heartbreaking.”
However, the 45-year-old promised the plot twist will ensure even more exciting storylines for next season. “It’s going to shake up the team and I think it’s going to probably really push us to go rogue in season 23,” Valderrama explained. “The biggest idea was to say, ‘How do we disrupt the peace of season 22 and set up the tone for season 23?’ And this episode does that better than we’ve done in many years.”
It’s official—NCIS is about to break hearts again. Season 22 is wrapping up with an emotional bang, and fans are bracing themselves for what’s being teased as a major character death. The writers aren’t pulling any punches this time, and if you thought Season 21 had twists, you’re in for a rollercoaster finale. So, who’s dying? Why now? And what does this mean for the future of the NCIS franchise? Let’s dive deep.
Why This Death Is a Game-Changer for NCIS
Killing off a lead character is no small move—especially for a show that’s been a staple of prime-time TV for over two decades. This isn’t just about shock value. It’s about pushing the storyline into new territory and, let’s be honest, stirring up ratings.
A Strategic Move by Showrunners
The producers know what they’re doing. A high-stakes finale brings fans back—and generates buzz on social media like wildfire.
Hinting at Bigger Changes Ahead
This death could signal a shift in the team dynamic, a new villain arc, or even an opening for new characters to step up.
Who Might Be Saying Goodbye?
Fans are speculating like crazy—and for good reason. The show has been dropping subtle hints all season long.
The Top Candidates (According to Fan Theories)
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Nick Torres – He’s had a tough season. Emotional arcs, risky missions… it’s not looking good.
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Dr. Jimmy Palmer – A fan favorite whose exit would hurt but shake things up.
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Alden Parker – As the team leader, his death would create chaos and opportunity.
Why These Characters Are at Risk
Writers often write out characters who’ve completed their arc—or whose death will drive new storylines. Expect the unexpected.
A Look Back: NCIS and Its History of Shocking Exits
If you’ve watched NCIS long enough, you know it’s not afraid to break your heart.
Remember These Gut-Wrenching Goodbyes?
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Kate Todd – That sniper shot still haunts us.
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Ziva David – Gone but never forgotten.
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Gibbs – His retirement hit us harder than we expected.
Each departure paved the way for new beginnings—and this one will too.
What Fans Are Saying Online
Twitter, Reddit, and TikTok are exploding with theories, fan art, and emotional breakdowns.
“I’m not ready to say goodbye 😭” – @NCIS_FanGirl98
The anticipation is real. If you scroll through any fan forum right now, you’ll see just how emotionally invested this community is.
The Psychology Behind Killing Off a Beloved Character
Ever wondered why writers do this?
It’s All About Emotional Impact
A well-timed character death can:
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Rekindle interest in a long-running series
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Deepen emotional investment
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Make way for new plots
It’s storytelling 101—and NCIS is a masterclass in keeping you on edge.
What This Means for NCIS Ratings
Spoiler: they’re about to skyrocket.
Ratings Spike When the Stakes Are High
People who haven’t watched in years are tuning in just to see who dies. Controversy = clicks. It’s the formula that works every time.
Clues from Season 22 You Probably Missed
Think the writers didn’t leave breadcrumbs? Think again.
Hidden Foreshadowing Moments
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The oddly emotional monologues
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That one goodbye hug too many
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The subtle musical cues that felt… final
The signs were there, we just didn’t want to believe them.
Cast Reactions: “It Was a Tough Scene to Film”
Several cast members have dropped cryptic hints during interviews.
Behind-the-Scenes Tears
Some have spoken about filming a “very emotional final day.” One even admitted they cried during the table read. That’s not casual. That’s a goodbye.
What Will Happen Next? Season 23 Speculations
If a major character dies, it opens doors.
Potential Spin-offs or New Leads
There’s already buzz that a new agent could join. Others think we might see a return of a familiar face to fill the void.
NCIS Formula: Evolving or Ending?
With the show crossing the 20-season milestone, fans wonder if these bold moves are building toward a final sendoff.
“Is NCIS Wrapping Up for Good?”
Not yet—but major character deaths often hint at the beginning of the end.
The Emotional Toll on Fans
Let’s be real—this show means something to people. It’s been a constant, a comfort.
We’re Not Just Watching—We’re Feeling
When a beloved character dies, we’re not just sad because of the plot. We’re grieving someone who felt real, like family.
When to Watch: Mark Your Calendars
The Season 22 finale airs [insert air date]—and it’s going to be an emotional ride.
Don’t Miss It
Have tissues ready. No, seriously. This one’s going to hurt.
Final Thoughts: Why This Matters More Than You Think
NCIS isn’t just killing off a character. They’re rewriting the future of the show. It’s bold. It’s risky. And it’s brilliant.
If you’re a fan, this finale will be one for the books. If you’ve drifted away, now’s the time to come back. Because endings like this? They don’t come around often.
