NCIS
When it comes to popular television shows, NCIS should be at the top of the list. In 2014, it was announced that the CBS procedural was "the most-watched drama in the world" and over the course of 19 seasons, it has remained in the Top 5 when it comes to Nielsen ratings. In fact, in 2018, it ranked No. 4 on the list of the most popular TV shows of the year, beating shows like The Voice and CBS competitor Bull, which stars an NCIS alum.
And it shouldn't come as a huge surprise thanks to the stellar cast, unexpected plot twists — we're still not over Caitlin's death, TBH — and loyal viewers. However, even the most dedicated fans might have questions about the show, like:
What does NCIS stand for?
NCIS stands for Naval Criminal Investigative Service, which is the primary law enforcement agency of the U.S. Navy. Its main function is to investigate any criminal activities involving the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps., though its mandate also includes national security, counterintelligence, counter-terrorism, and cyber warfare.
How long has NCIS been on?
The CBS series was actually a spinoff of the TV show JAG when it premiered in 2003. Currently, in its 19th season, the show has followed Gibbs and his team based in Washington D.C. In 2009, its spinoff NCIS: LA premiered, which follows a team at the Office of Special Projects (OSP), an elite division of NCIS, that specializes in undercover assignments.
In 2014, NCIS: New Orleans made its debut on CBS, this time focused on NCIS agents stationed in The Big Easy. In 2021, NCIS: New Orleans had its series finale and CBS introduced a new show in the franchise: NCIS: Hawai'i.
NCIS cast:
- Mark Harmon (Leroy Gibbs) — Season 1-
- Michael Weatherly (Tony DiNozzo) — Season 1-13
- Pauly Perrette (Abby Sciuto) — Season 1-15
- David McCallum (Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard) — Season 1-
- Sean Murray (Timoty McGee) — Season 2-
- Cote de Pablo (Ziva David) — Season 3-11
- Sasha Alexander (Caitlin Todd) — Season 1-2
- Lauren Holly (Jenny Shepard) — Season 3-5
- Rocky Carroll (Leon Vance) — Season 6-
- Brian Dietzen (Dr. Jimmy Palmer) — Season 6-
- Emily Wickersham (Eleanor Bishop) — Season 11-
- Wilmer Valderrama (Nicholas Torres) — Season 14-
- Duane Henry (Clayton Reeves) — Season 14-15
- Jennifer Esposito (Alex Quinn) — Season 14
- Maria Bello (Dr. Jacqueline Stone) — Season 15-
- Diona Reasonover (Kasie Hines) — Season 15-
NCIS: New Orleans cast:
- Scott Bakula (Dwayne Cassius Pride) — Season 1-7
- Lucas Black (Christopher LaSalle) — Season 1-6
- Rob Kerkovich (Sebastian Lund) — Season 1-7
- CCH Pounder (Loretta Wade) — Season 1-7
- Zoe McLellan (Meredith Brody) — Season 1-2
- Daryl "Chill" Mitchell (Patton Plame) — Season 2-7
- Shalita Grant (Sonja Percy) — Season 2-4
- Vanessa Ferlito (Tammy Gregorio) — Season 3-7
- Necar Zadegan (Hannah Khoury) — Season 5-7
- Charles Michael Davis (Quentin Carter) — Season 6-7
- Chelsea Field (Rita Devereaux (Season 3-7)
NCIS: LA cast:
- Chris O'Donnell (G. Callen) — Season 1-
- Daniela Ruah (Kensi Blye) — Season 1-
- LL Cool J (Sam Hanna) — Season 1-
- Linda Hunt (Hetty Lange) — Season 1-
- Barrett Foa (Eric Beale) — Season 1-
- Adam Jamal Craig (Dominic Vail) — Season 1
- Peter Cambor (Nate Getz) — Season 1
- Eric Olsen (Marty Deeks) — Season 2-
- Renee Felice Smith (Nell Jones) — Season 2-
- Miguel Ferrer (Owen Granger) — Season 5-
- Nia Long (Shay Mosley) — Season 9-
NCIS: Hawai'i cast:
- Vanessa Lachey (Jane Tennant)
- Yasmine Al-Bustami (Lucy Tara)
- Jason Antoon (Ernie Malik)
- Noah Mills (Jesse Boone)
- Tori Anderson (Kate Whistler)
- Kian Talan (Alex Tennant)
- Alex Tarrant (Kai Holma)
What are Gibbs' NCIS rules?
Over the course of 16 seasons, Agent Gibbs has shared many words of wisdom with his team — and fans have dubbed his tips "Gibbs Rules." They should be obeyed at all times, and "consequence is a slap to the back of the head." Here are his top 10:
- Never let suspects stay together. / Never screw over your partner.
- Always wear gloves at a crime scene.
- Don't believe what you're told. Double check. / Never be unreachable.
- If you have a secret, the best thing is to keep it to yourself. The second-best is to tell one other person if you must. There is no third best.
- You don't waste good.
- Never say you're sorry. It's a sign of weakness.
- Always be specific when you lie.
- Never take anything for granted.
- Never go anywhere without a knife.
- Never get personally involved in a case.
Latest NCIS News and Updates
From Severed Legs in Dumpsters to Abandoned Ghost Ships, Just How Real Is 'NCIS'?
A real-life NCIS agent said paperwork wouldn't make for good television but we would watch Gibbs file his nails.
Mark Harmon's Leroy Jethro Gibbs is Making an Epic Comeback to the 'NCIS' Franchise
If you were saddened by Gibbs leaving 'NCIS', you'll be excited to hear he's making a return to the 'NCIS' universe. Details ahead.
‘NCIS’ Brought Back a Former Star to Pay Tribute to Ducky
That actor previously teased an ‘NCIS’ comeback, saying his character “felt unfinished.”
'NCIS' Star David McCallum Is Survived by Several Children and Even More Grandchildren
David McCallum welcomed five children, with some of them following his footsteps in the entertainment industry.
Season 3 Premiere of ‘NCIS Hawai’i’ Pays Tribute to Crew Member William “Kono” Dahlin
"Worked with Kono for almost two years day in and day out, always put a smile on my face as he for many others and will be dearly missed," wrote Noah Mills.
Todd Lasance Is a Proud Family Man — Let's Meet His Wife Jordan
Todd Lasance has started a family with Jordan Wilcox. The pair welcomed two children into the world while Todd continues pursuing his acting career.
Here's the Real Reason Christopher Was Killed Off on 'NCIS: New Orleans'
Why did Christopher leave 'NCIS: New Orleans'? Here's the real reason Lucas Black left the show — and what the actor is doing now.
What's 'NCIS' Star Emily Wickersham Doing Now? Fans Plead for Her Return to the Show
Emily Wickersham retired from her role as Special Agent Eleanor Bishop on 'NCIS.' So, what is the TV star doing now? Here's the update.
The Cast of 'NCIS: Sydney' Has Been Revealed — Here's Who is Joining the Spinoff!
he cast of the upcoming 'NCIS' spinoff, 'NCIS: Sydney,' has been revealed. Here's what we know about the actors that make up the Australian team of NCIS agents.
Hetty Has Been Away Since the Season 13 Premiere of 'NCIS: Los Angeles' — Why?
Where is Hetty on 'NCIS: Los Angeles'? The fan-favorite character was absent for all of Season 13. So, where is she? When is she coming back?
‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ Wrapped Up Their Story and LL Cool J Says Letting Go Wasn't Hard
Why did LL Cool J leave ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’? Here's what he said about wrapping up the show and his plans to come back for 'NCIS: Hawai'i'.
Fans of the 'NCIS' Franchise Don't Need to Worry — 'NCIS: Hawai'i' Isn't Finished
A leg of the 'NCIS' franchise, 'NCIS: Hawai'i' is still a fledgling show, wrapping up Season 2. But is it getting canceled? Here's what we know.
Why Is David McCallum’s Time on ‘NCIS’ Ending? Inside the Actor’s Health in 2023
David’s character suffered a health scare that jeopardized his future in the series during Season 9. Did that episode hint at health problems IRL?
Now That 'NCIS: Los Angeles' Has Closed Its Last Case, Will We Get a Spinoff?
Is there a spinoff of 'NCIS: LA' on the horizon now that the popular crime drama is done? Here's what we know about it. Fans want details!
'MacGyver' Actor Henry Ian Cusick Returns to CBS in Major 'NCIS: Hawai'i' Role
'NCIS: Hawai'i' fans want to know who plays Agent John Smith in the Season 2 finale, and that's because the actor is a very familiar face.
'NCIS: Hawai'i': Yasmine Al-Bustami on #Kacy Relationship and Season 3 Storylines (EXCLUSIVE)
'NCIS: Hawai'i': Yasmine Al-Bustami spoke with 'Distractify' about Lucy and Kate's relationship, and what she hopes for the couple in Season 3.
When Is the Last Episode of 'NCIS: Los Angeles'? The Series Finale Will Be Two Parts
When is the Last episode of 'NCIS: Los Angeles'? The show is coming to an end after 14 years, and CBS has split the finale into two parts.
Captain Joe Milius Is Back on 'NCIS: 'Hawai'i' Baby!
Captain Joe Milius is finally returning to 'NCIS: Hawai'i.' Let's get reacquainted with him. We'll find out where he went and why he's back!
'NCIS' Lost "Another Family Member" in Billy Mac — Everything We Know About Him
Who was Billy Mac from ‘NCIS’? The March 13, 2023, episode was dedicated to Billy Mac, a significant member of the ‘NCIS’ team who sadly passed away.
We're on the Hunt for Hetty Lange — Is She Returning to 'NCIS: Los Angeles' Before the Finale?
Is Hetty coming back to 'NCIS: Los Angeles'? She briefly popped in last season, but a voice cameo in Season 14 teased her return to the series.
Kamran Hanna on 'NCIS: LA' is Played by Two Queens — Get to Know Them!
Kamran Hanna is all grown up and no longer played by Layla Crawford — get to know more about the 'NCIS: LA' alum and older Kamran, Kayla Smith!
Could Michael Weatherly Return to 'NCIS'? Rumors Are Afoot
It has been quite a white since Anthony "Tony" DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) was on 'NCIS,' but he could return due to a recent career change.
'NCIS' Fans Fear They'll Have to Say Goodbye to *THIS* Beloved Cast Member Soon
Is Agent Alden Parker leaving 'NCIS'? Here's everything we know about Gary Cole's fate on the series after he replaced Mark Harmon.
Who Plays Alden Parker's Dad on 'NCIS'? The 4-1-1 on the Seasoned Actor
Who plays Alden Parker's dad on 'NCIS'? The show has welcomed an iconic actor for the guest spot.
Another Kilbride Makes Waves in the Newest 'NCIS: Los Angeles'
Who is Elizabeth Kilbride in ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’? Marilu Henner, who portrays Killbride’s ex-wife, is a familiar ‘NCIS’ guest star.
Is Noah Mills of 'NCIS: Hawai'i' Married? He Keeps His Personal Life Private
Noah Mills, star of 'NCIS: Hawai'i,' has a great resume to his name. Who is his wife? Here's what we know about the actor and his love life.
Vanessa Lachey Hinted That Season 2 of 'NCIS: Hawai'i' Gets "Pretty Emotional" (EXCLUSIVE)
'NCIS: Hawai'i' star Vanessa Lachey sat down for an exclusive interview with 'Distractify,' where she talked what's to come for Season 2 and more.
'NCIS: Hawai'i' Star Vanessa Lachey Talks Potential Baby No. 4: "I Always Consider It" (EXCLUSIVE)
In an exclusive interview with 'Distractify,' 'NCIS: Hawai'i' star Vanessa Lachey opened up about raising three kids with husband Nick Lachey.
Why Hasn't Jane Tennant's Daughter Been on 'NCIS: Hawaii' This Season? Here's What We Know
Jane Tennant's daughter, Julie Tennant, has not yet been featured in Season 2 of NCIS: Hawai'i. Was she written out of the script?
After 14 Years of Crimefighting, 'NCIS: Los Angeles' Has Been Canceled — What Happened?
After 14 years of crimefighting, the NCIS: Los Angeles team is handing over their badges. Why was the show canceled?
EP Teases Highly Anticipated 'NCIS' Three-Way Crossover Event (EXCLUSIVE)
'NCIS' Crossover Event — EP Chris Silber spoke exclusively with 'Distractify' about the cast coming together for the epic three-way crossover.
You Might Have Forgotten Why Delilah Fielding Uses a Wheelchair on 'NCIS'
Why is Delilah in a wheelchair on 'NCIS'? Here's what we know about the character and the reasoning behind the wheelchair's usage.
‘NCIS Hawai'i’ Fans Are Worried About Lucy Tara’s Future — Is Yasmine Al-Bustami Leaving?
Is Yasmine Al-Bustami leaving 'NCIS: Hawai'i'? Fans are concerned for her role as Special Agent Lucy Tara. Here's what we know about it.
When Do the 'NCIS' Shows Return in 2023? You Don't Have Long to Wait!
The 'NCIS' shows are heading into their 2022 winter break and fans are desperate to know when they'll be back. When do the 'NCIS' shows return?
McGee's Wife, Delilah, Heads Back to 'NCIS' in the Season 20 Fall Finale
Delilah Fielding is making her return to 'NCIS' on Dec. 5, 2022, marking the first time we've seen the character in more than a year.
Jessica's Sister Robin Stirs Up Some Turkey Trouble in the Latest 'NCIS' Episode
We finally get to meet Agent Jessica Knight's sister Robin Knight in the Thanksgiving 'NCIS' episode. Who is Robin and the actress who plays her?
Charlie 1 Is Back on 'NCIS: Hawaiʻi' so We Should Probably Do a Little Refresh
An old face is returning to 'NCIS: Hawaiʻi' when the team is on the hunt for a merciless killer. Who is Charlie 1 on 'NCIS: Hawaiʻi'? This ain't his first rodeo.
Is Kensi Leaving 'NCIS: Los Angeles'? Daniela Ruah Does Double Duty
After Kensi's disappearance from several episodes of 'NCIS: Los Angeles,' fans wonder: did she leave the show? Here's what to know.
'NCIS:Los Angeles' Star Daniela Ruah Has a Birthmark in Her Right Eye
'NCIS: LA' star Daniela Ruah has a birthmark in her right — what you need to know about the condition that produces hyperpigmentation of the eye.
Who's the Only 'NCIS: LA' Character Cooler Than Deeks? His Mom, Roberta
Ever wondered about who plays Deeks' mother on 'NCIS: Los Angeles'? Fortunately, we have all of the answers. Meet Pamela Reed, Marty Deeks' mom.
A Soap Opera Queen Is Headed to 'NCIS' — Let's Dish About It!
A soap opera staple is checking out of General Hospital in favor of the dangerous world of 'NCIS.' Who is Carolyn Hennedy on 'NCIS'? Here's what we know.
'NCIS: Los Angeles' Star Daniela Ruah on "Exciting" 'NCIS' Three-Way Crossover Event (EXCLUSIVE)
Three-Way 'NCISverse' crossover episodes — 'NCIS: Los Angeles' star Daniela Ruah teases the "exciting" event. Get the details!
Is Canadian Actor Noah Mills Leaving 'NCIS: Hawai'i'? He Has a Close Brush With Death
As CBS's 'NCIS: Hawai'i' Season 2 unfolds, fans are worried that actor Noah Mills will leave his role as Jesse Boone. Is he leaving 'NCIS: Hawai'i'?
What Happens When a Traitor Is in Your Midst? Breaking Down Who Could Be the 'NCIS' Mole
Could there be a Mole in the NCIS's team's midst? The latest promo trailer for 'NCIS' Season 20, Episode 6 teases this terrifying possibility.
Is Director Vance Leaving 'NCIS'? Fans Think Rocky Carroll Is Exiting in Season 20
Is Director Vance leaving 'NCIS' during Season 20? Find out why Rocky Carroll's character on the CBS drama has fans worried about his future.
Who Was Mike Brooks? Inside the Real-Life ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ Tragedy
'NCIS: Los Angeles' has been on the air since September 2009. In November 2018, the show's team lost someone who worked closely behind the scenes.
Where Is 'NCIS' Filmed? The Original and Spinoffs, Explained
'NCIS' is a household staple, now entering it's 20th season. Where is 'NCIS' filmed? We have details on the original as well as the spinoffs.
Tori Anderson Reveals Lucy and Kate Are Figuring Things Out on 'NCIS: Hawai'i' (EXCLUSIVE)
Lucy and Kate have taken a huge leap forward in their relationship on 'NCIS: Hawai'i.' Here are some details about where their relationship stands now.
'NCIS: Hawaii' Star Tori Anderson Talks Season 2 and Major Crossover Event (EXCLUSIVE)
Season 2 of the latest 'NCIS' spin-off is really heating up. To get the lowdown on what's in store we spoke with 'NCIS Hawaii's' Toni Anderson about what's on the agenda.
Fans Are Predicting That Torres Is Leaving 'NCIS' in Season 20
There is a fan theory that predicts Wilmer Valderrama (aka Nick Torres) is leaving 'NCIS' in Season 20 — here's what to know about his potential exit.
