Top 10 NCIS Seasons That Kept Us Hooked for Years

by

As a devoted fan, I’ve found myself captivated by the enduring charm of NCIS for well over two decades. This series has proven to be an exceptional survivor in the ever-changing landscape of television, outlasting many trends where shows typically run for six to eight seasons. Instead, it has carved a place as one of the most cherished crime dramas in the 21st century. So, what keeps me, and countless others, coming back for more, season after season? Is it the blend of intelligent dialogue, nail-biting investigations, and the team’s steadfast commitment to each other that draws us in? Or is it the show’s knack for staying fresh by introducing new characters, attracting memorable guest stars, and keeping viewers emotionally engaged?

Fundamentally, NCIS demonstrates the art of captivating television storytelling at its finest. Over time, as it progresses through each season, it continues to improve and expand. Characters have come and gone, yet it maintains a delicate equilibrium that keeps viewers engaged. Now in its 22nd season and beyond, NCIS offers an abundance of episodes, cases, and story arcs to immerse oneself in. This compilation ranks the top 10 seasons of NCIS, those that have indelibly influenced the show’s enduring legacy and timeless allure.

10
Season 8

(2010 – 2011)

Season 8 of NCIS saw a significant shift in its narrative trajectory, exuding greater confidence in its storytelling. It explored the characters’ pasts more thoroughly, revisited themes from the first season, and introduced gripping plotlines that left viewers breathless. Ranging from an attempt on Director Vance’s life to the team’s pursuit of the Port-to-Port killer, a multi-episode arc spanning five episodes, this season was brimming with both suspense and drama in equal measure.

In an innovative twist for NCIS, the Port-to-Port antagonist was introduced as a recurring character, significantly enhancing the team’s dynamics and delving into the individual strengths and weaknesses of each character. Notably, Gibb’s leadership is tested, Tony’s father reappears in “Broken Arrow,” and Mike Franks (played by Muse Watson) bids farewell to the show after a poignant finale in “Swan Song.

9
Season 11

(2013 – 2014)

Season 11 of NCIS marked significant changes and fresh starts for the squad. As it ventured into its second decade, it presented some of the most popular and emotionally charged episodes ever, while simultaneously setting the stage for NCIS: New Orleans by relocating the team to New Orleans. The season started with the departure of fan-favorite character Ziva David, portrayed by Cote de Pablo. Her storyline involved her past reemerging, resolving her conflicts with Michael Weatherly’s Tony DiNozzo, and culminated in her emotional goodbye in “Past, Present, and Future.

In Season 11, a skilled NSA analyst named Ellie Bishop (Emily Wickersham) was added to the team. Her role was crucial in dealing with cyber threats and intricate global plots. Mark Harmon’s portrayal of Gibbs was pivotal throughout the season. The accusations against him were dismissed, leading to a poignant and impactful finale titled “Honor Thy Father,” where he returned home to pay tribute to his late father, played by Ralph Waite.

8
Season 16

(2018 – 2019)

In a fresh and engaging manner, NCIS Season 16 unfolded as an impressive installment that underscored the show’s knack for transformation while preserving its cherished qualities. Essentially, this season found the team grappling with a series of intricate personal and work-related hurdles, each one more riveting than the preceding one. The storyline kicks off with a tense saga as the team endeavors to locate Director Vance, who has been abducted.

During the course of the series, they handle a variety of other cases, including a lethal car blast linked to global spycraft and exposing the illicit activities of a genetics laboratory. In an episode, Gibbs assists in locating a missing girl’s mother, showcasing his compassionate side, which is a standout part of the season. A notable incident occurs when Ellie discovers some old notes belonging to Ziva, and the plot suggests that she may still be alive. She appears in the episode “Daughters,” and it is disclosed that she staged her death to safeguard Tony and Tali.

7
Season 1

(2003 – 2004)

The first seasons of enduring TV series are often seen as less impressive than when a show has become well-established and beloved, but the nostalgia surrounding the debut of NCIS Season 1 is exceptional. It benefited from some prior groundwork laid by JAG, and NCIS went on to create a stage for a crime drama that would enthrall audiences for years to come, by presenting viewers with the dynamic team led by Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

Without a doubt, discussing the original cast of NCIS would be incomplete without acknowledging Kate Todd, played by Sasha Alexander, who was a key player until the show’s second season. Her presence significantly contributed to setting the groundwork for the series. The second season was marked by a blend of military and civilian cases, sprinkled with witty banter and humor, as well as exploring character relationships. Standout episodes from this period include “Yankee White” and “Bête Noire.

6
Season 10

(2012 – 2013)

In its tenth season, NCIS had much to address following the events of Season 9, which concluded with an explosion at the Navy Yard and Gibbs apprehending a notorious criminal. The team is still grappling with the aftermath; McGee is hospitalized, Ducky has to take some time off, and Abby is haunted by recurring nightmares. Moreover, it was unsettling to witness familiar characters acting in ways that raised moral doubts throughout the season.

In Season 10, significant plots revolve around the pursuit of the enigmatic terrorist Harper Dearing, coupled with Tony and Ziva’s assignment in Berlin that concludes unexpectedly with a grave car accident. Throughout the season, Ziva shines particularly bright, as she reconnects with her long-lost father in the episode “Shabbat Shalom,” setting the foundation for her later departure. Predominantly, the narrative revolves around Gibbs, who finds himself handcuffed when the team disobeys orders and Ziva takes down Bodnar, ultimately leading to his arrest.

5
Season 2

(2004 – 2005)

The second season of NCIS debuted in 2004 and encompasses a grand total of 23 episodes. Building upon the groundwork laid in Season 1, it introduced fresh plotlines and complexified character interactions. It further welcomed characters such as Timothy McGee and Jimmy Palmer, who eventually became pivotal figures on the show. Among the most unforgettable episodes were “The Meat Puzzle,” where Ducky found himself the target of a grudge and was kidnapped from his residence, and “SWAK,” in which Tony encountered lethal bacteria.

Season 2 is praised for its numerous compelling storylines and substantial character development. The dynamics between the main characters – Gibbs, Tony, Kate, and Abby – are skillfully displayed. The season-ending episode, “Twilight,” offers unexpected and heartrending turns with the demise of Sasha Alexander’s character, Kate Todd. This shocking event left viewers spellbound, yet it also hinted that NCIS might unexpectedly write off characters in the future.

4
Season 5

(2007 – 2008)

The extraordinary popularity of Season 5 of NCIS, even though it was truncated to only 19 episodes due to the Writers Guild of America strike, demonstrates its exceptional ability to seamlessly blend intense investigations with heartfelt character development. Particularly memorable episodes included “Family,” in which the team delved into the death of a Marine, “Chimera,” marking the show’s 100th episode, and “Requiem,” offering an insightful look into Gibbs’ past – a first for the series.

Season 5 stands out with its significant plot turns and rich emotional layers. The death of character Jenny Shepard, portrayed by Lauren Holly, in the two-part finale “Judgement Day”, leaves a deep mark and alters the dynamics within the team. Additionally, it introduces an exciting new direction as they pursue La Grenouille, a dangerous arms dealer initially met in Season 4. Tony develops a romantic relationship with Jeanne Benoit, and there are hints that Jenny Shephard was responsible for La Grenouille’s demise. Despite this, Gibbs and the team remain loyal to her regardless.

3
Season 7

(2009 – 2010)

Season 7 is undeniably one of the top-notch seasons for NCIS. To begin with, it picks up where Ziva David’s rescue following her ordeal in Somalia left off, leading to her official joining of the NCIS team after four years of working alongside them. The team also grapples with various hurdles such as Vance safeguarding his family from North Korean assassins and Gibbs successfully resolving an international dispute.

A pivotal moment is titled “Power Down,” where a power failure prompts the team to resort to traditional detective techniques rather than modern ones. Midway through its run, NCIS unveils another captivating storyline centered around the Reynosa Cartel. The cartel’s leader, Paloma Reynosa, abducts Gibbs in retaliation for his killing of her father, Pedro Hernandez. It’s further disclosed that Gibbs took his life because he was connected to the murder of his wife and daughter. In summary, it’s a season rich with intrigue and captivating plotlines.

2
Season 9

(2011 – 2012)

Season 9 of NCIS can be seen as a self-contained storyline due to its focus on a main antagonist, Harper Dearing, a tech investor who plunges into terrorism after the murder of his son. The team is grappling with the repercussions of the Port-to-Port killer case and are also faced with new dangers such as the Phantom Eight. Throughout, Dearing keeps the tension high right from the beginning to the end.

Season 9 showcases some compelling character developments too. For example, “Sins of the Father” explores Tony’s deep-seated issues with his father, leading him not to defend the man after DiNozzo is found in a car trunk. Abby discovers more about her background and family as she prepares to donate a kidney to her brother. Another standout moment is the reappearance of Jamie Lee Curtis as Dr. Samantha Ryan, culminating in a shocking cliffhanger at the end of “Till Death Do Us Part,” the season finale.

1
Season 3

(2005 – 2006)

As I eagerly awaited each new episode of NCIS, Season 3 didn’t disappoint! This season showcased the series at its finest, demonstrating its knack for evolving and delivering intricate, thought-provoking stories. The changes it brought to the show were significant, with memorable storylines that kept us hooked.

The season kicked off in the wake of Kate Todd’s tragic demise, introducing us to Ziva David, a fresh addition to our favorite team. Episodes like “Kill Ari” delved deep into Ziva’s journey as she grappled with her half-brother’s death and her integration into our team.

In “Hiatus,” an exceptional episode of NCIS, it’s Gibbs who experiences a near-death situation. Probie (that’s what they call him) witnesses McGee in a shooting predicament. The season delves deep into the past of Gibbs, offering a richer perspective on multiple characters. It’s packed with action, suspense, and excitement, taking us through diverse criminal investigations, from uncovering a spy network to warding off a bear attack. With its constant drive to innovate, Season 3 truly solidified NCIS as a dominant force in television.

Read More

2025-02-04 02:33