Longtime fans of NCIS have something to celebrate—Season 23 is taking the show back to its roots. Known for its early blend of crime-solving intensity, sharp wit, and team chemistry, NCIS carved out a place as one of television’s most enduring procedurals. But in recent seasons, some viewers felt the show had softened. Now, with a new creative approach and a nod to its original tone, the series is regaining the edge that made it a hit.

Producers have promised a “grittier” and more grounded season, reminiscent of the early days when Gibbs ran the team and the cases felt high-stakes and emotionally charged. While Mark Harmon may no longer be a series regular, the spirit of his no-nonsense leadership is making a comeback through storytelling that dives deeper into character backstories and darker, more complex investigations.

What’s also exciting for longtime viewers is the return of more tightly-written standalone episodes with the kind of suspense and emotional payoff that made NCIS must-watch TV. Season 23 isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about honoring the legacy of the show while building on it. Familiar faces may appear, new dynamics will emerge, and fans can expect less fluff and more focus.

In a TV landscape full of reboots and reinventions, NCIS is proving that sometimes the best way forward is to look back. And if early episodes are any indication, Season 23 might just be the breath of fresh air the show needed—by reminding us why we fell in love with it in the first place.