**Everything You Need to Know About NCIS Season 21**
Originally conceived as a spinoff of JAG, NCIS has surpassed expectations to become the third longest-running primetime drama in television history. The show, which follows a team within the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, tackles a variety of cases ranging from espionage and terrorism to homicide.
Premiering in 2003, NCIS quickly rose to become one of the highest-rated shows on television. Even in 2022, nearly 20 years after its debut, Variety reported that NCIS was still the second most-watched series of the year. The show’s enduring appeal lies in its diverse and quirky cast, who infuse humor into the otherwise intense and action-packed narrative.
Over the years, NCIS has become a staple for many viewers, evolving with new characters joining the team, others departing, and long-time fan favorites developing alongside the audience. This dynamic has kept fans eagerly anticipating each new season.
### Renewal and Premiere of Season 21
In February 2023, CBS renewed NCIS for its 21st season, along with other popular series such as NCIS: Hawaii, Young Sheldon, The Equalizer, and CSI: Vegas. CBS emphasized their commitment to delivering top-quality content, both through returning favorites and new hits, in a statement to Deadline: “This season CBS is continuing its winning tradition, delivering an unparalleled combination of top returning series and new hit shows that are entertaining huge audiences on both broadcast and streaming.”
### Impact of Strikes and Season 21 Premiere
Shortly after the renewal announcement, Hollywood faced significant disruptions due to the writers’ and actors’ strikes, which halted production on nearly all movies and TV shows. The writers’ strike ended in September 2023, followed by the conclusion of the actors’ strike in November 2023.
Despite these delays, Season 21 of NCIS premiered on February 12, 2024. During the strikes, many of the show’s stars, including Katrina Law, Wilmer Valderrama, Sean Murray, Brian Dietzen, and Diona Reasonover, were active on the picket lines in Los Angeles.
### What’s Next for NCIS?
With the strikes resolved and production back on track, fans can look forward to another season filled with the captivating cases and character-driven stories that have made NCIS a beloved fixture on television. Season 21 promises to continue the legacy of thrilling investigations and the dynamic team interactions that viewers have come to cherish. Stay tuned for more updates and episodes as NCIS enters its next chapter.
