The Hollywood writer’s and actor’s strikes caused “NCIS” season 21 to be delayed, which might now impact the number of new episodes viewers will see. Fans of NCIS are disappointed with key aspects of the highly anticipated season 21. The much-loved criminal procedural is adrift as outside influences have the potential to drastically change the show’s future.
Devoted viewers of the program may need to lower their expectations, since strikes affecting the entire industry could result in the series having its shortest run ever.
Fans might get the shortest season yet of the hit crime procedural
With 10–13 episodes, the upcoming season of NCIS is expected to be the shortest in the show’s history. This is significantly less than the 16 episodes from its 18th season. Considering that the show typically produces more than 20 episodes per season, this decline is noteworthy. The entire NCIS cast, including NCIS: Hawaii and NCIS: Sydney, is impacted by the cutbacks. Although the latter series was not impacted by the strike, it will nonetheless fall short of the required number of episodes.
Actors and studios are still hoping for a settlement, and an early December agreement would be ideal. Studios will go through a holiday production blitz in preparation for a January launch if that occurs.
Yet, with negotiations potentially dragging into the new year, season 21’s episode tally could face further reductions. Fans are holding out for a swift settlement, ensuring a season that reaches into the teens in episode numbers.
A look at which cast members are returning for season 21 of ‘NCIS’
Despite the bad news, excitement is still mounting for the return of NCIS in season 21. Although a specific comeback date is up in the air due to ongoing industry strikes, the network has slated the show to retain its Monday night slot.
Meanwhile, details on the main actors who are set to return have been disclosed, along with one cast member who will be seen less frequently. The roll call of returning stars includes Wilmer Valderrama as Nick Torres, Sean Murray as Timothy McGee, Katrina Law as Jessica Knight, and Gary Cole as Alden Parker.
Rocky Carroll, Diona Reasonover, and Brian Dietzen all return to their well-known roles. Updates regarding possible cameos are pending. However, there won’t be as many chances to see well-known characters return this season due to the condensed schedule.
The CBS network announced on Instagram that the 21st season of NCIS will debut on Monday, February 12, 2024, at 9 p.m. ET. The third season of the spinoff NCIS: Hawaii will debut that same night at 10 p.m. ET.