In the latest season of NCIS, fans eagerly anticipated the tribute episode dedicated to the beloved character Ducky, portrayed by David McCallum. However, upon its airing, many viewers expressed disappointment over the absence of expected cameos, especially from Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by Mark Harmon. While McCallum’s farewell portrayal of Ducky was poignant and touching, the noticeable absence of Gibbs left fans feeling unsatisfied and wanting more from the tribute.
Speculation immediately arose regarding the reasoning behind Gibbs’s omission from the episode. Some fans speculated that it might have been due to scheduling conflicts or other commitments on Harmon’s part. Others wondered if it was a deliberate creative choice made by the show’s producers to focus solely on Ducky’s character development and departure.
However, amidst the disappointment, there was a glimmer of hope for fans. It was revealed that the decision to exclude Gibbs from the tribute episode had a purpose – the show had plans for Tony DiNozzo, played by Michael Weatherly, to make a return. This revelation sparked excitement and speculation among viewers about the potential storyline involving DiNozzo’s comeback and how it might tie into Ducky’s departure.
While fans were left wanting more from Ducky’s tribute episode, the promise of Tony DiNozzo’s return injected a renewed sense of anticipation and curiosity about the future direction of the show. With the stage set for new developments and twists, NCIS enthusiasts eagerly awaited the unfolding of events in the episodes to come.
A new spinoff, “NCIS: Europe,” exclusively on Paramount+, follows Tony and Ziva on the run across the continent, adding a thrilling twist to the franchise. Tony’s limited appearances in Season 21 hinted at his involvement in the spinoff. His brief visit to Ducky’s tribute, commenting on being “just passing through,” now aligns with his on-the-go lifestyle in “NCIS: Europe.”
With Tony and Ziva’s action-packed escapades ahead, fans can anticipate an exciting new chapter in the NCIS universe, filled with thrilling adventures.
