CBS recently made headlines by canceling four shows while keeping NCIS and its new spinoff, NCIS: Origins, on the air. The decision left many fans wondering why these series survived while others didn’t. The answer comes down to a mix of ratings, cost, and audience demand.

NCIS remains one of CBS’s most successful franchises, with a loyal fan base that continues to tune in weekly. Its consistent performance in viewership and syndication revenue makes it a safe bet for renewal. Meanwhile, NCIS: Origins, which explores the early career of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, has generated major buzz, making it a promising addition to the lineup.

On the other hand, the four canceled shows likely suffered from declining ratings or high production costs. CBS has been shifting its focus toward proven franchises and cost-effective programming, meaning struggling series were more vulnerable to cancellation. While fans of the cut shows are disappointed, CBS’s strategy is clear: invest in what works and keep the NCIS legacy strong.