CBS will reshuffle its Sunday primetime slate this week as the network opts to air the first episode of NCIS: Hawai’i’s upcoming two-parter episode after coverage of the AFC Divisional Playoff Game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs.
Let’s talk strategy. Not football strategy—but TV strategy. CBS just pulled a genius move by slotting the first part of an NCIS: Hawai’i two-parter right after the AFC Divisional Playoff Game. It’s no secret that playoff games pull in millions of viewers, and CBS plans to keep them glued to their screens. So, why does this matter? And why should you care? If you’re a fan of thrilling crime dramas or just someone who appreciates a smart programming decision, stick around. This article dives into everything you need to know about CBS’s decision and how it could shake up Sunday night TV.
The Strategy Behind Prime-Time Placement
CBS isn’t just randomly picking time slots. The AFC Divisional Playoff is a ratings juggernaut, and what better time to air a gripping drama than when the audience is already locked in?
Viewer Retention Tactic 101
By placing NCIS: Hawai’i right after the playoff game, CBS is banking on momentum. It’s like serving dessert right after an epic meal—you’re not going anywhere.
The series starring Vanecha Lachey will return for “Spies, Part 1”, which airs from 10-11 p.m. ET/PT on Sunday on CBS. The first portion of the two-part episode follows what happens when NCIS investigates the mysterious death of a Navy engineer, Joseph Chan. They learn the last person he met with was his colleague, Maggie Shaw (Julie White), Jane’s mentor and friend, who’s been kidnapped. Also, David Sola (Beulah Koale), a New Zealand intelligence service case officer arrives in Hawai’i, following a lead that connects Joseph’s death to a Chinese black op secret agent. The episode is directed by LeVar Burton.
The second part is set to air the following day on Monday, Jan. 24 during the series’ regular time period in the 10 p.m hour. While Jane investigates Maggie’s kidnapping, she’s shocked when she learns the truth and enlists her team and Whistler to prove her findings. Part two sees Beulah Koale return as David Sola, a New Zealand Intelligence Service case officer.
Created/executive produced by NCIS: New Orleans executive producers/showrunner Christopher Silber and Jan Nash as well as SEAL Team writer-producer Matt Bosack, NCIS: Hawai’i is set in the Aloha State. It follows Jane Tennant (Lachey), the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor, and her team as they balance duty to family and country, investigating high-stakes crimes involving military personnel, national security and the mysteries of the island state itself.
CBS is playing chess while others play checkers. By airing part one of the NCIS: Hawai’i two-parter right after the AFC Divisional Playoff, they’re creating an unforgettable Sunday night experience. If you’re into football, crime dramas, or just smart TV strategy, don’t miss it. This isn’t just another episode—it’s an event.
