You Won’t Believe Which NCIS Season Tops the List—The 10 Best Ranked!
NCIS has been a fan-favorite procedural drama for over two decades, captivating audiences with its intriguing cases, dynamic characters, and intense emotional arcs. With 20+ seasons to choose from, it’s challenging to rank the best. However, some seasons stand out for their storytelling, character development, and memorable moments. Here’s a look at the ten best seasons of NCIS, ranked:
10. Season 4
Season 4 introduced us to new dynamics within the team, especially with the arrival of Ziva David as a full-time team member. This season also delved into the complexities of Gibbs’ past, particularly in the episodes “Hiatus: Part 1 & 2,” offering fans a deeper understanding of the stoic leader.
9. Season 11
Season 11 was a turning point for the series with the departure of Ziva David, one of the most beloved characters. Her emotional farewell in “Past, Present, and Future” remains one of the most heart-wrenching episodes. Despite the sadness, the season continued strong, introducing Ellie Bishop, who brought a fresh perspective to the team.
8. Season 3
Season 3 marked the arrival of Ziva David, replacing Kate Todd after her shocking death in Season 2. The season was packed with intense episodes, including the emotionally charged “Kill Ari” two-parter, which explored themes of revenge, loyalty, and the bond between the team members.
7. Season 5
Season 5 is remembered for its thrilling story arcs, including Jenny Shepard’s secret mission and eventual death. The season finale, “Judgment Day,” shocked fans with its dramatic twists, leaving a lasting impact on the series.
6. Season 10
Season 10 dealt with the aftermath of the Harper Dearing storyline, focusing on the team’s recovery and the theme of family. The episode “Shabbat Shalom” and its follow-up, “Shiva,” were emotional highlights, exploring Ziva’s personal loss and the team’s unwavering support for her.
5. Season 2
Season 2 is where NCIS truly found its stride. The team’s chemistry solidified, and the season featured some of the series’ most memorable episodes, like “SWAK” and the heartbreaking finale “Twilight,” which saw the shocking death of Special Agent Kate Todd.
4. Season 9
Season 9 was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the team facing numerous challenges and threats. The explosive season finale, “Till Death Do Us Part,” left fans on the edge of their seats with a cliffhanger that saw the team in grave danger.
3. Season 7
Season 7 is often hailed as one of the series’ best, thanks to its strong storytelling and character development. The season’s highlight was the multi-episode arc involving Ziva’s rescue from Somalia, culminating in the powerful episode “Truth or Consequences.”
2. Season 13
Season 13 was a bittersweet season for NCIS fans, as it marked the end of Tony DiNozzo’s journey with the team. His emotional departure in the episode “Family First” was a fitting farewell, wrapping up years of character development and leaving fans with a sense of closure.
1. Season 6
Topping the list is Season 6, a season packed with action, intrigue, and emotional depth. This season is best known for the introduction of the riveting “Domino” storyline, which spanned multiple episodes and showcased the team at their best. The season finale, “Aliyah,” left fans reeling with its shocking twist, setting the stage for the intense events of Season 7.
These ten seasons exemplify the best of what NCIS has to offer, combining gripping storytelling with deep character exploration, making them stand out in the long-running series. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, these seasons are a must-watch.
