Curious about how the NCIS team is coping with a key member’s exit? Here’s the inside scoop!
Executive Producer Steven D. Binder recently spilled the beans to TV Insider about the fallout from Special Agent Jessica Knight’s departure and her breakup with Chief Medical Examiner Jimmy Palmer. Palmer is now dating someone new, and his new relationship is set to create drama at the worst possible times. Meanwhile, Knight is facing a major challenge as a hostage negotiator, which will lead to a much-needed follow-up conversation with Palmer that fans didn’t get to see in the finale.
Despite the breakup, Binder assured that Knight and Palmer are managing to keep it professional while working together.
Binder also discussed how Torres is faring in Knight’s absence. “Poor Torres,” Binder said, noting that every time he forms a bond, it ends badly. This season, Torres goes undercover with dangerous people, leading to more trouble and isolation.
Knight’s exit has triggered a series of events: McGee is eyeing a deputy director position in Colorado, and this will be decided by the end of the premiere. Kasie is feeling the sting of Knight’s departure, while Papa Bird Parker is struggling with an empty squad room and soon gets entangled in Knight’s latest predicament.
“This case will bring the team together, not necessarily in a joyful reunion, but their paths will cross,” Binder teased.
In an interview with Us Weekly, Binder shared that Season 22’s theme is “take it to the limit.” He promised that while some cliffhangers will be resolved, new ones will arise to keep fans engaged.
Wilmer Valderrama, who plays Torres, hinted at a season filled with personal growth, humor, and emotional depth. “The writers have done an invaluable job this season,” he said. “Expect more humor, deeper emotional journeys, and maybe even some major danger.”
Season 21 ended with a cliffhanger involving Knight’s move to Camp Pendleton and her relationship with Palmer. Binder hinted at exciting developments for Season 22, including unusual character pairings and extreme situations that push the characters beyond their usual boundaries.
Get ready for a season full of surprises and intense drama!
