The 8 Saddest NCIS Character Exits That Left Fans in Tears – Ranked!

NCIS has become one of the longest-running police procedural shows, featuring Mark Harmon as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, who leads a team of colorful agents investigating Navy-related cases. The series is celebrated for its clever cases, witty humor, and memorable performances by a talented cast, including Michael Weatherly, Sean Murray, and David McCallum.

Over the years, NCIS has seen numerous characters come and go, such as NCIS Director Leon Vance and Special Agent Eleanor Bishop. However, some departures have left a more significant impact on fans than others. From the uncertain fate of Special Agent Ziva David to Gibbs’ bittersweet departure, here are eight of the saddest character exits, ranked:

8. Special Agent Ziva David

Former Mossad Agent Ziva David, portrayed by Cote de Pablo, joined the team in the Season 3 premiere, “Kill Ari: Part 1,” after saving Gibbs’ life. Ziva quickly became an intriguing character and shared a flirtatious dynamic with DiNozzo, creating one of the show’s most compelling storylines. Fans were heartbroken when they believed she was killed in a house fire in Israel, but it was later revealed in Season 16 that she had faked her death to protect her family. De Pablo’s return in Season 17 provided some closure, but her initial exit was a rollercoaster of emotions for viewers.

7. Abigail Sciuto

Abby Sciuto, played by Pauley Perrette, was the team’s beloved Chief Forensic Scientist, known for her bubbly personality, gothic style, and love for caffeine. Despite her unconventional appearance, Abby’s vast knowledge made her an invaluable asset to the team. She first appeared in the backdoor pilot episode of JAG that led to NCIS. Abby’s departure at the end of Season 15 left a void that no one could fill, marking a significant loss for the show’s original lineup.

6. Special Agent Anthony DiNozzo

Michael Weatherly’s portrayal of Special Agent Tony DiNozzo brought humor and charm to the series. Known for his pop culture references and playboy antics, DiNozzo gradually revealed a more tender side, especially in his relationships with Gibbs and Ziva. In Season 13, fans learned that DiNozzo and Ziva’s relationship had turned romantic, resulting in the birth of their daughter, Tali. After Ziva’s presumed death, DiNozzo left NCIS to be a full-time father, a decision that was difficult for fans but softened by the touching scenes with Tali.

5. Director Jennifer Shepard

Lauren Holly’s character, Jenny Shepard, became NCIS Director in Season 3 and shared a complicated romantic history with Gibbs. In Season 5, it was revealed that Jenny’s father, Colonel Jasper Shepard, had died under suspicious circumstances. Her quest for the truth ultimately led to her tragic death in the Season 12 finale during a shootout that also claimed the life of Gibbs’ mentor, Mike Franks. Holly’s departure was not entirely unexpected, as she had expressed a desire to pursue other projects.

4. Ned Dorneget

Special Probationary Agent Ned Dorneget, portrayed by Matt Jones, was introduced in Season 9. As a young and eager agent, Dorneget was keen to work in the field and soon began taking on assignments. Tragically, he was killed in the Season 12 finale, “The Lost Boys,” during a bomb attack in Cairo. His selfless act of staying behind to help others evacuate made his death a heroic but heartbreaking moment for fans.

3. Clayton Reeves

Duane Henry’s character, MI6 Agent Clayton Reeves, joined NCIS in Season 13 as a Liaison Officer. He quickly became a beloved member of the team. In the Season 15 episode “Two Steps Back,” Reeves was killed while protecting Abby Sciuto. Henry revealed that the sudden death of NCIS showrunner Gary Glasberg led to uncertainty about Reeves’ future on the show, resulting in his character’s tragic exit.

2. Special Agent Caitlin Todd

Sasha Alexander’s portrayal of Special Agent Kate Todd made her one of the original members of Gibbs’ team. A former Secret Service agent, Kate struggled to detach herself emotionally from victims, but her skills and intuition made her a valuable team member. Her shocking death in the Season 2 episode “Twilight” devastated fans. Alexander’s decision to leave the show allowed her to explore other opportunities, though she later returned for guest appearances, offering some closure.

1. Leroy Jethro Gibbs

As the backbone of NCIS, Mark Harmon’s character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs, led the Major Case Response Team with a mix of stoicism and deep-seated pain. In 2021, Harmon announced his departure after 18 years on the show. In the Season 19 episode “Great Wide Open,” Gibbs decided to retire and stay in Alaska, where he found peace after the loss of his wife and daughter. Gibbs’ exit changed the dynamic of the series, and many diehard fans found it difficult to imagine NCIS without its iconic leader.