CBS May Have Triggered NCIS Season 22’s Lowest Ratings Yet
In a world where entertainment consumption continues to evolve, NCIS has maintained an impressive track record. The long-running series consistently draws millions of viewers, securing its place as a cornerstone of CBS programming. While its audience numbers have dipped compared to earlier seasons, NCIS remains a top performer for the network and has expanded into a thriving franchise with multiple spinoffs.
Currently the third longest-running scripted American series — behind Law & Order: SVU (season 26) and Law & Order (season 24) — NCIS has faced several recent changes. These include the retirement of Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs and the passing of David McCallum, which was reflected in Ducky Mallard’s fate on the show. Despite these challenges, NCIS season 22 has been delivering solid episodes, but its ratings suggest trouble may be brewing.
“Sticks & Stones” Marks a Record Low
Season 22, Episode 4, titled “Sticks & Stones,” became the show’s lowest-rated episode ever, drawing only 4.76 million viewers (via Programming Insider). Following the dramatic cliffhanger finale of season 21, the early episodes of season 22 have focused on rebuilding the Navy Yard bullpen dynamic. Jessica Knight has returned from Camp Pendleton, while Timothy McGee navigates his disappointment over being passed over for the Deputy Director role. While these overarching storylines aim to keep the show fresh, weekly cases appear to be losing their edge with fans.
This isn’t the first ratings drop for NCIS this season. Episode 3, “The Trouble with Hal,” previously held the record low with 4.92 million viewers, and Episode 6, “Knight and Day,” tied that number. Prior to season 22, the series’ lowest-rated episode was season 20’s premiere, “Family Matters,” which drew 5.82 million viewers during a crossover event with NCIS: Hawaiʻi.
Season 22 Ratings Breakdown
| Episode | Title | Million Viewers |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | “Empty Nest” | 6.42 |
| 2 | “Foreign Bodies” | 5.37 |
| 3 | “The Trouble with Hal” | 4.92 |
| 4 | “Sticks & Stones” | 4.76 |
| 5 | “In from the Cold” | 5.26 |
| 6 | “Knight and Day” | 2.92 |
What’s Next for NCIS?
While NCIS remains an institution for CBS, these declining numbers could signal that the series may need to adapt further to retain its loyal fan base. With strong competition and shifting viewer habits, the network must strategize to ensure the show continues to thrive.
For now, NCIS season 22 is still unfolding, and fans are hopeful it will regain its momentum in the episodes ahead.
