The NCIS franchise, a staple of CBS programming for over 20 years, is celebrating a major milestone with its 1,000th episode. Since the flagship show’s debut in September 2003, following its backdoor pilot on JAG, the NCIS universe has expanded to include five series. The historic 1,000th episode will air as the seventh episode of NCIS Season 21 on April 15, 2024, featuring guest appearances from characters across the franchise.
Daniela Ruah, known for her role as Kensi Blye on NCIS: Los Angeles, and Vanessa Lachey, who plays Jane Tennant on NCIS: Hawai’i, are set to make special guest appearances. Although they won’t share scenes with the main NCIS cast, their roles are expected to add an exciting twist to the episode. Additionally, Spencer Moore from All American and Superman & Lois will portray Director Leon Vance’s son, Jared.
The episode promises high drama, with co-showrunner David North hinting at a beloved character facing “grave danger” and a unique crossover involving multiple franchises. Rocky Carroll’s Vance will also have a personal storyline, adding depth to the episode.
This will be Ruah’s first time reprising her role as Kensi since NCIS: Los Angeles ended in 2023, and her first appearance on NCIS since the 2009 backdoor pilot. Lachey has previously appeared in several crossover episodes.
Season 21 of NCIS is shaping up to be eventful, with the 1,000th episode and a tribute to the late David McCallum’s character, Ducky. The season also continues the storylines of Nick Torres and Alden Parker, and highlights Kasie Hines’ potential for more fieldwork.
As the franchise moves forward, NCIS: Sydney’s future remains uncertain, but upcoming spinoffs include NCIS: Origins, set to explore Gibbs’ past, and a new series featuring Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David, exclusively streaming on Paramount+.
