The 10 Best NCIS Characters, According to Reddit – You Won’t Believe Who Made the Top Spot!

If there’s one genre TV audiences can’t seem to get enough of, it’s crime shows. Among the many interpretations of the genre, some series have earned their place as all-time classics. One such series is NCIS, a show that’s captivated viewers for nearly two decades.

With a vast number of episodes and several spin-offs like NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans, the NCIS universe features a large and diverse cast of characters. While there are many fan favorites, here are a few that Reddit users have highlighted as their top picks:

Leroy Jethro Gibbs Portrayed by Mark Harmon, Leroy Jethro Gibbs is the iconic NCIS Special Agent who leads the Case Response Team until his retirement. As one of the show’s original characters, Gibbs has been a central figure since the beginning. Reddit user johninga praises Gibbs as one of the best main characters, attributing the show’s longevity to Harmon’s compelling performance.

Nicholas Torres Played by Wilmer Valderrama, Nicholas Torres is a Special Agent on the NCIS Major Case Response Team. Opinions on Torres are mixed, but many Reddit users appreciate his character development, particularly after the death of Clayton Reeves. User lifesariskcarnal1 notes how Torres has grown more mature and impressive over time.

Diane Sterling Melinda McGraw plays Diane Sterling, an IRS criminal investigator and the ex-wife of both Leroy Gibbs and Tobias Fornell. Although not as widely celebrated as some other characters, Diane Sterling is recognized by Reddit users as an underrated part of the show, often bringing humor to her appearances. User whatitdewwbabyyyy highlights her comedic moments as a standout feature.

James Palmer James “Jimmy” Palmer, portrayed by Brian Dietzen, is the Chief Medical Examiner for the NCIS Major Case Response Team. Fans universally appreciate Palmer, seeing him as a character who improves with time. Reddit user Classic-Bowl-9940 admires how Palmer’s character depth has evolved, making him a fan favorite.

Clayton Reeves Duane Henry’s Clayton Reeves, introduced in Season 13 as an MI6 officer and NCIS liaison, left a lasting impression despite his brief tenure on the show. Reddit user Frod02000 laments his early exit, feeling that Reeves was cut short before his character could fully develop.

T.C. Fornell Tobias C. Fornell, played by Joe Spano, is an FBI agent and a close associate of the NCIS Major Case Response Team. His relationship with Gibbs is particularly cherished by fans. User LikelyTrisaccharide praises the dynamic between Fornell and Gibbs as one of the show’s highlights.

Kate Todd Sasha Alexander’s Caitlin “Kate” Todd, a Secret Service agent on Air Force One’s Presidential Protective Detail, is fondly remembered. Reddit user allenknott3 wishes Kate could have continued with the team, imagining how her presence might have shaped the series differently.

Ziva David Cote de Pablo’s Ziva David, an Israeli Mossad agent who becomes an NCIS Special Agent, is a standout favorite. Her blend of impressive skills and vulnerability makes her a beloved character. User Komedian83 appreciates the depth of her character, noting her duality as both a formidable agent and a person with emotional depth.

Leon Vance Rocky Carroll plays Leon Vance, the director of NCIS introduced in Season 5. Initially, some fans were unsure about Vance, but he eventually won many over. User ptazdba explains that much of the interest in Vance comes from the intrigue and mystery surrounding his character.

Anthony DiNozzo Michael Weatherly’s Anthony DiNozzo, the Senior Field Agent on the Major Case Response Team, is an iconic and highly respected character. User HarleyQueen95 credits DiNozzo’s popularity to his significant character development, which resonates deeply with fans.

These characters have left a lasting impact on the NCIS universe, each contributing their own unique flavor to the show’s rich tapestry.