- The iconic procedural franchise, NCIS, will expand with two new offshoots next year. Will viewers still tune in?
In the world of television, few franchises hold as much sway as NCIS. Celebrating over two decades on air, the series recently marked its 450th episode, a testament to its enduring popularity. With spin-offs like NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans, CBS built a formidable NCIS franchise, each achieving considerable success.
Now, with NCIS: Hawai’i and NCIS: Sydney expanding the franchise globally, two new spin-offs are set to join the roster. NCIS: Origins explores the early career of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, while a Paramount+ exclusive reunites Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo as Anthony DiNozzo and Ziva David.
Despite concerns about oversaturation, the franchise’s diversity in settings and staggered air dates may mitigate viewer fatigue. While five concurrent shows may seem ambitious, the success of other network blocks, like FBI Tuesdays, suggests that dedicated nights for specific franchises can bolster ratings.
With the return of beloved characters and the potential for year-long NCIS programming, the franchise’s expansion presents an opportunity for rejuvenation rather than fatigue. As NCIS continues to captivate audiences worldwide, its place in modern television remains secure.
