Recently, the NCIS universe has undergone significant changes, highlighted by the cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i, continuing a noticeable trend in the franchise’s evolution. Originating as a spinoff from the 1990s legal drama JAG, NCIS debuted in 2003 and marked the beginning of a sprawling franchise. In 2009, NCIS: Los Angeles introduced a new set of characters and locales, initiating a wave of spinoffs that followed.
Over the years, the franchise expanded with several location-based series, but not all have sustained longevity. NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans, once pillars of the franchise, have faced cancellations despite their dedicated fan bases. Most recently, NCIS: Hawai’i concluded in 2024, marking the third location-based series to end its run.
As NCIS approaches its 22nd season, the landscape of the franchise has transformed significantly since its inception. The cancellation of established shows alongside the launch of new ones signals a strategic shift in programming approach, reflecting the evolving dynamics and priorities within the NCIS universe.