The NCIS franchise will be experiencing a major change in the next fall television cycle, and it might change the franchise for the better. As of the fall of 2025, the NCIS universe will be made up of NCIS and three active spinoffs, including NCIS: Sydney, NCIS: Origins, and the highly anticipated NCIS: Tony & Ziva. While having multiple spinoffs is not new for the police procedural, the shows’ combined time slots will be.
In recent years, the NCIS franchise has been growing more than ever with the introduction of its first prequel, NCIS: Origins, and now with the introduction of the series’ first show centered on a duo instead of a team in NCIS: Tony & Ziva. With all these changes, there are worries that NCIS might be growing too fast. However, the latest NCIS spinoffs represent good news for NCIS in the fall 2025 cycle and maybe beyond.
The world of NCIS has been buzzing with chatter, fan theories, and speculation lately — and with good reason. This fall, the beloved procedural is undergoing one of its biggest changes yet, and honestly? It might just be the shot of adrenaline the franchise desperately needed. So, what’s this big shake-up, and why are fans (and critics) saying it’s the best thing to happen to NCIS in years? Let’s dive in.
The NCIS Franchise — A Quick Recap
Before we talk about what’s new, let’s rewind a bit. NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) premiered back in 2003 and quickly became one of the most-watched shows on American television.
From Gibbs to Global Impact
For nearly two decades, NCIS built a loyal fanbase thanks to iconic characters like Leroy Jethro Gibbs, heart-pounding mysteries, and its unique blend of action and humor.
The Power of Spin-Offs
Over time, the franchise expanded to include:
-
NCIS: Los Angeles
-
NCIS: New Orleans
-
NCIS: Hawai’i
-
And now, the international expansion with NCIS: Sydney
But the core series has faced challenges — dropping viewership, character exits, and changing audience expectations.
The Fall Change That Shook Things Up
So what’s this game-changing move we’re all talking about? It’s a major creative overhaul, and it includes a new showrunner, reimagined storytelling, and a stronger character-driven focus.
Goodbye Formulaic Plots, Hello Depth
The procedural format NCIS followed for years — crime of the week, solved by the hour mark — is getting a facelift. This fall, we’re seeing more serialized storytelling, deeper emotional arcs, and riskier creative choices.
Meet the New Boss — And New Energy
Enter the new showrunner, who’s been shaking up scripts, breaking traditional structures, and injecting life into the show. It’s storytelling evolution at its finest.
Fresh Faces, Familiar Vibes
One of the most talked-about aspects of this change? A dynamic new cast addition and surprising character returns.
The Return of Fan-Favorite Characters
Let’s face it — we all miss Ziva, Tony, and yes, even Gibbs. While nothing’s confirmed long-term, rumors suggest surprise cameos and potential multi-episode arcs could bring back some of that old NCIS magic.
A Stronger Ensemble Cast
The fall refresh introduced more balanced screen time across the team. Instead of relying on one or two leads, the new format builds out the entire ensemble, giving every character a storyline with weight.
Better Writing, Bolder Risks
Fans have noticed — the writing feels sharper, more modern, and emotionally layered.
Realism Over Repetition
Gone are the days of recycled tropes. Episodes now tackle ripped-from-the-headlines cases and morally complex dilemmas, making the show feel timely and relevant again.
Character Vulnerability
One major change? Characters now feel real. We’re seeing grief, doubt, and personal growth — and it’s giving the series serious depth.
Global Storylines = Global Audience
In a bid to expand its reach, NCIS is also tapping into international crime plots and collaborative cases with its sister series like NCIS: Sydney.
A Bigger Universe Than Ever Before
Think Marvel-style interconnected episodes — not just Easter eggs but storylines that cross borders and characters.
Why This Might Save The Franchise
Let’s be real: NCIS has had its ups and downs. But this fall shift proves one thing — the show is not afraid to evolve.
It’s No Longer Just Comfort TV
Sure, we love comfort TV. But in 2025, audiences crave meaningful television. NCIS’ shift to deeper narratives could actually future-proof the series.
It’s Bringing Back Lapsed Viewers
Many fans who tuned out after the original cast changes? They’re coming back. The buzz, the quality — it’s all drawing old fans in for a second chance.
The Ratings Tell a Story
And we’re not just talking hype here. Ratings have ticked upward since the fall premiere.
The Digital Boost
Streaming numbers on platforms like Paramount+ have spiked, especially among younger demographics.
Social Media Is Loving It
From Reddit threads to TikTok edits, NCIS is trending again — and not just among Boomers.
What Are Fans Saying?
Let’s hear it straight from the community.
“This Feels Like the NCIS I Fell in Love With”
Reddit user @GibbsRules wrote: “This fall change brought back the spark. It’s smarter, tighter, and finally character-driven again.”
New Fans Are Hooked Too
Many viewers who never watched before are finally tuning in, thanks to buzzworthy trailers and accessible streaming.
Behind the Scenes — A Smarter NCIS
According to insiders, the fall overhaul wasn’t just cosmetic.
Writers’ Room Reinvented
There’s now more diversity, younger voices, and tighter collaboration behind the scenes. This means fresher plots and more authentic dialogue.
More Realistic Investigations
Even the tech and tactics used by the team now reflect current military and forensic standards — a win for realism.
What’s Next for NCIS?
So, where does NCIS go from here?
Spin-Off Crossovers on the Horizon
Insider leaks suggest we’ll soon see big crossovers with NCIS: Hawai’i and Sydney, potentially forming a shared universe event.
Season Renewal Looking Likely
Early reports hint that thanks to the fall success, a multi-season renewal is already being discussed by CBS.
Final Thoughts — Reinvention Done Right
Let’s call it what it is: NCIS didn’t just update its wardrobe this fall — it rewired its DNA. It’s smarter. Bolder. More human. This change isn’t just about ratings — it’s about restoring the heart and soul of the franchise. And that, my friend, might just be the best thing to happen to NCIS since Gibbs’ first head slap.
