NCIS, As We Know It, Needs To End

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As a fan who’s been riding the “NCIS” wave since its debut, I have to admit that I’ve grown fond of this show like an old pair of comfy jeans. But just like those worn-out jeans, it’s time for “NCIS” to hit the donate pile and make room for some fresh denim in the TV wardrobe.

After 21 seasons on television, it’s time for “NCIS” to say goodbye. This iconic action-drama has been a staple of our screens for so long that it’s hard to imagine life without it. However, managing such a long-running series has become increasingly difficult, especially with the numerous cast changes over the years. While there are ways to prolong the lifespan of a procedural show like “NCIS,” even shows as resilient as its companion series “Blue Bloods” eventually reach their end. Despite employing various methods to stay fresh and relevant, it’s evident that the foundation of “NCIS” is starting to show signs of wear and tear.

Is it clear that today’s version of NCIS is noticeably distinct from the original show, either because it fails to tackle contemporary themes like AI or due to the absence of its iconic characters? Perhaps it’s time for the series to conclude, allowing fans to cherish the memories of its golden days.

The show’s formula is getting mighty tired

Twenty years have passed since “NCIS” initially graced CBS screens, and while much has evolved in this time, the show’s underlying structure remains remarkably consistent. A new case is introduced to the team, often linked to the Navy or another military branch given their employment status. These cases are typically gruesome, violent, and intriguing with a unique twist. On occasion, the case might involve someone close to the team, or it could shed light on a piece of their past.

As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve seen many games replicate the formula that “NCIS” uses, but it was refreshing when they first introduced it back in the day. Lately though, it seems like the show is showing its age. When “NCIS” attempts to stay relevant with modern technology, it feels out of place. Their handling of AI-related plots, even bringing the dead back to life using technology, has been criticized as being clumsy and outdated.

While there’s a fair share of positive aspects, such as the Western-themed episode in Season 21 that demonstrated impressive creativity, it’s undeniable that sometimes the show strays from its usual path. However, when it aims for something grand and falls short, those missteps are glaringly obvious.

Losing Gibbs was one cast turnover too many

A popular TV series like “NCIS” inevitably experiences cast changes over time, particularly when the show has been successful for many seasons. Just as expected, “NCIS” has faced its fair share of cast departures: some due to actor’s decisions (Mark Harmon), others stemming from behind-the-scenes issues (Pauley Perrette who had conflicts with Harmon), and sadly, some due to death (David McCallum). However, the show has persevered through each loss by thoughtfully replacing actors and maximizing their potential on set.

Recently, it’s become difficult to overlook a notable absence: Gibbs (Harmon). For years, his weight, history, and connections with the team have been the heart of the series. Now that he’s gone, there’s an emotional void in the show that’s hard to fill. Gary Cole’s Alden Parker has certainly added intrigue to the plot, but “NCIS” just doesn’t feel like its old self without its head honcho. It seems prudent to consider wrapping up the series soon, before Parker departs and a new character takes over the central narrative.

Newer NCIS shows keep dying to keep the mothership alive

For quite some time now, “NCIS” has maintained a strong presence on the Tiffany network’s programming lineup, as evidenced by its consistent high ratings. However, after 21 seasons and with CBS grappling with a packed schedule, it appears that “NCIS” may have outlived its initial welcome.

In a fresh twist on its usual format, “NCIS: Hawai’i” presented characters who were unlike Gibbs, engaging in activities beyond what one would expect from him. However, when this series was unexpectedly canceled, CBS stated they attempted to save it. Yet, many viewers found this hard to believe. The executives later explained that the cancellation was partly due to the network’s limited time slots and the fact that their streaming platform, Paramount+, already had a packed lineup. Despite claims of wanting to experiment and refresh the schedule, the network simultaneously approved “NCIS” for its 22nd season.

It seems odd to continue airing “NCIS: Hawai’i” when its parent series, “NCIS,” remains on the air, gradually losing its title as America’s favorite drama. Prolonging the life of “NCIS” is undoubtedly advantageous, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of other shows that could also enjoy long and prosperous runs.

It’s better to go out on top

In essence, what these acclaimed shows like “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “M*A*S*H,” and “Friends” teach us is that it’s wiser to bid farewell while still at the pinnacle of success, leaving viewers yearning for more, rather than overstaying their welcome by changing creative directions excessively. Many series have extended beyond their prime, damaging their initial success and tarnishing the memories of television enthusiasts in the process. It’s like choosing to depart a gathering before it becomes tiresome, instead of lingering too long and becoming bothersome.

If “NCIS” concludes with Season 22, it will have outlasted many dramas in terms of entertaining global audiences for a longer period. In the case of long-running series, simply providing enjoyment to viewers is often the main goal for producers. It might be more fitting to let this procedural drama retire gracefully and move on to syndication, rather than witnessing it struggle and fade away in real life.

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2024-08-03 17:00