NCIS actor Muse Watson reportedly expressed significant discontent about his character’s demise in season 8, as revealed by the show’s creators. Executive producer Charles Floyd Johnson disclosed that Watson, who portrayed Supervisory Special Agent Mike Franks, had a deep affection for the show and was displeased when his character was written off. Watson later conveyed his sentiments, stating that while the initial plan sounded promising, the execution left his character in need of further development. Learning about his character’s fate while filming a Christmas production, the actor described the experience as “like losing an old friend” and acknowledged its impact on his livelihood.
The creators assured Watson that he could return as a ghost to maintain his presence on the show. Other past cast members, including Michael Weatherly, Mark Harmon, and Cote de Pablo, also provided explanations for their departures from the series, citing factors such as burnout, dissatisfaction with the storyline, and the pursuit of new opportunities.