In NCIS Season 21, Episode 6, titled “Strange Invaders,” which aired on April 1 on CBS, major spoilers were revealed. While the episode didn’t explicitly state it was an April Fool’s episode, its timing on April Fool’s Day added a layer of coincidence. The storyline revolves around the seemingly impossible murder of a Navy lieutenant shortly after he testifies before Congress about unexplained aerial phenomena (UAP), commonly known as UFOs.
A significant portion of the episode is filled with jokes about terrifying alien invaders as the NCIS team explores who among them believes in extraterrestrials. However, the episode takes a serious turn as it delves into the truth behind the murder. While viewers are led to expect a sci-fi comedy routine, the episode ultimately provides an unexpected emotional punch with an intriguing plot twist involving weaponized artificial intelligence (AI).
The episode reveals that the real killer is an autonomous drone, developed by a programmer named Silcott for a next-gen piloting system. However, Silcott’s partners misuse the technology for their own nefarious purposes, resulting in Lieutenant Greene’s murder. The emotional core of the episode lies in Silcott’s interactions with the AI, particularly as he reveals that he based the AI on his late son Kaiden.
While “Strange Invaders” attempts to balance humor with a dramatic plot, the execution falls short at times, with some comedic subplots feeling forced and detracting from the overall tension of the episode. However, standout performances and the emotional depth of the AI storyline make the episode worth watching for fans of the series.
Despite its shortcomings, “Strange Invaders” offers a unique blend of comedy and drama, showcasing NCIS’s ability to explore timely themes such as AI technology and weaponization. While it may not reach the high standards set by previous episodes, it still provides an entertaining viewing experience.
NCIS airs Mondays at 9:00 p.m. on CBS.