NCIS season 21: Release date and the latest rumors

NCIS’s 20th season left fans reeling with shocking developments, including unexpected confessions and a cliffhanger involving Torres’s undercover mission. As the series moves into its 21st season, excitement builds. This article will cover the release date, cast details, spoilers, and what to expect from the next chapter of this beloved series.

When does season 21 of NCIS come out?

In February 2023, CBS renewed the long-standing series “NCIS” for its 21st season, initially planning a fall premiere as part of its regular lineup. However, strikes by writers and actors for better compensation led to a delay in the show’s return.

The situation improved following a provisional settlement of the actors’ strike in November 2023, leading CBS to announce the return of “NCIS” on February 12, 2024.

What to expect from season 21 of NCIS?

With a legacy of captivating storylines and dynamic character development, NCIS’s 21st season promises to uphold the show’s tradition of intrigue and suspense. Here’s a sneak peek into what fans can expect:

Continuation of cliffhangers

Season 21 is expected to unravel the cliffhangers left in the previous season, particularly the intense situation involving Nick Torres. Audiences are eagerly waiting to see how his storyline evolves, especially after the dramatic season 20 finale.

New characters and dynamics

The introduction of new characters always adds fresh dynamics to the series. This season may bring in new faces, leading to novel interactions and challenges within the team.

Deep-dive into character backstories

NCIS has a history of exploring the personal lives and pasts of its characters. Season 21 might delve deeper into the histories of some key characters, offering a richer understanding of their motivations and actions.

Evolving crime storylines

Expect new and complex cases that challenge the team’s expertise. These cases often mirror real-world scenarios, adding a layer of realism to the show.

Special crossover episodes

There’s always a possibility of crossover episodes with other shows in the NCIS franchise, which can provide an exciting mix of characters and storytelling styles.

Technological advancements in crime solving

With technology constantly evolving, the series often incorporates new forensic methods and digital sleuthing techniques, which could be a highlight in the upcoming season.

NCIS season 21 cast

The upcoming 21st season of the TV show “NCIS” is set to feature a strong returning cast, including:

• Sean Murray as Timothy McGee
• Wilmer Valderrama as Nick Torres
• Brian Dietzen as Jimmy Palmer
• Diona Reasonover as Kasie Hines
• Katrina Law as Jessica Knight
• Rocky Carroll as Leon Vance
• Gary Cole as Alden Parker

However, David McCallum, who portrayed Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, will not appear due to his passing in September 2023. The season will pay tribute to McCallum with a special episode co-written by Brian Dietzen.

The show’s co-showrunners and executive producers, Binder and North, have emphasized the importance of honoring McCallum’s legacy as both a remarkable actor and a cherished colleague.

Additionally, new guest stars are expected to join the show, potentially becoming regulars in the future. Although Mark Harmon’s character, Gibbs, exited the show in Season 19, there’s speculation about his potential return in a future season, but details about when and in what capacity are still under wraps.

Where to watch NCIS season 21

For new episodes of NCIS, tune in on Mondays at 9 p.m. ET on CBS. If you’re without a TV, the CBS website and app are available for streaming the show. Additionally, NCIS can be watched live without a cable subscription through platforms like YouTube TV, fuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV, many of which offer free trials.

Alternatively, if you prefer to watch episodes at your convenience, NCIS is available for streaming on Paramount Plus. New users can take advantage of a seven-day free trial. Subscription plans start at $5.99 per month or $59.99 annually. To watch, simply access the show’s title page on the Paramount+ website or app.

NCIS Season 21 episode count

Season 21 of the popular CBS drama will be unusually brief, with an anticipated 10-13 episodes, in contrast to the usual 20-24. This reduction is due to filming delays from strikes and a late start in the summer.

While CBS has not officially confirmed the episode count, it’s clear that this season will be notably shorter. This isn’t the first time the show has faced production challenges; for instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, season 18 was cut down to 16 episodes. The upcoming season will be the shortest since the show’s fifth season, which had 19 episodes.