The NCIS universe keeps expanding with new shows like NCIS: Origins and NCIS: Europe. But fans still talk about beloved characters from the past who left too soon. With the main show now in its 23rd season, there is plenty of room for familiar faces to come back. Some characters have already made surprising returns. Emily Wickersham came back as Ellie Bishop in the midseason premiere of Season 22 on March 3, 2026. That return got fans excited about who else could show up next.
Tony Dinozzo Needs a Proper Comeback
Michael Weatherly left NCIS in 2016 after 13 seasons. His character Tony Dinozzo went off to raise his daughter in Paris. But Weatherly did return briefly in Season 21. He is now working on the NCIS: Europe spinoff with Cote de Pablo, who plays Ziva David. Still, fans want to see Tony back on the main show. The character has deep ties with Timothy McGee and Jimmy Palmer. Seeing Tony walk into the bullpen again would be a big moment. With Weatherly already involved in the NCIS universe, a full return feels possible. His chemistry with the remaining original cast members like Sean Murray would bring back the show’s classic feel.
Abby Sciuto Remains a Fan Favorite
Pauley Perrette played Abby Sciuto for 15 seasons. The goth forensic scientist left the show in 2018. There were reports of issues between Perrette and Mark Harmon. But CBS executives have recently said they are open to Abby coming back. The show has subtly referenced Abby in newer episodes. This hints that the door is not completely closed. Perrette has said she would not return because of past conflicts. But with Harmon no longer on the main show full-time, things could change. Abby’s quirky personality and unique forensic skills are missing from the current team. Kasie Hines has filled her role well, but Abby remains special to long-time viewers. A return would not require Abby to interact with Gibbs, making it easier to happen.
Ziva David’s Story Is Not Finished
Cote de Pablo left NCIS in 2013. Her character Ziva David was thought to be dead for years. Then she returned in Season 16 and 17. That surprise comeback showed that anything is possible. Ziva now lives in Paris with Tony and their daughter Tali. De Pablo is working with Michael Weatherly on NCIS: Europe. But fans want to see Ziva back with the main team. Her relationships with McGee and Jimmy are still strong. Seeing her work with current agents like Nick Torres and Jessica Knight would create great drama. The show has not closed the door on Ziva appearing again. Her return would bring together old and new fans.
Leroy Jethro Gibbs Could Always Walk Back In
Mark Harmon left NCIS as a regular in Season 19. His character Gibbs retired to Alaska. But Harmon has not left the franchise completely. He narrates NCIS: Origins and will appear in a crossover episode between Origins and the main show. This guest spot opens the door for more appearances. Fans would love to see Gibbs return to help the team on a difficult case. His leadership style is different from Alden Parker’s. But Gibbs knows the agency better than anyone. Harmon has said he is open to coming back under the right conditions. Even a one-episode return would be huge news for viewers. The show has kept Gibbs alive and well in Alaska. That means the character is ready to come back when the story calls for it.
Kate Todd’s Return Could Happen on NCIS: Origins
Sasha Alexander played Kate Todd for the first two seasons. Her character was killed off in the Season 2 finale. That death shocked everyone. But the prequel show NCIS: Origins takes place in the past. This means Kate could appear on that show before her death. Young Gibbs could meet Kate early in her career. The show has already brought back other dead characters through flashbacks and dream sequences. Ducky Mallard appeared after David McCallum passed away. Kate’s return would honor the show’s early days. Alexander has said she would be open to coming back. A younger version of Kate on Origins would make perfect sense for the show’s timeline.
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What Recent Returns Mean for the Show
Emily Wickersham’s return as Ellie Bishop proved that no character is truly gone. Bishop came back as a wanted fugitive. That twist gave the show new energy. Wilmer Valderrama, who plays Torres, said working with Wickersham again felt natural. The episode showed how returns can create fresh stories. Executive producer Steven D. Binder said they wanted Bishop back once they heard she might be interested. This same approach could work for other characters. The show has also seen major changes recently. Rocky Carroll left after 18 seasons when Leon Vance was killed off. That exit leaves room for new faces and returning favorites. Sean Murray’s McGee is now one of the last original cast members still on the show. Bringing back characters from his early days would add depth to his story.
The NCIS franchise keeps growing. NCIS: Origins, NCIS: Europe, and NCIS: Sydney give more chances for returns. Characters like Tony, Ziva, Abby, and Gibbs can appear on any of these shows. The main NCIS series remains strong in its 23rd season. Fans continue to hope that their favorite agents will walk through that navy yard door one more time. With so many spinoffs and crossover events, these returns feel more possible than ever.
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