CBS introduced NCIS: Origins to audiences in October 2024, bringing a new chapter to the long-running NCIS franchise. As fans settle into the winter hiatus, many are wondering: will NCIS: Origins return for a second season? Letโs break down the possibilities.
A Fresh Start for Monday Nights
Following the cancellation of NCIS: Hawaiโi, CBS revamped its Monday night lineup by premiering NCIS: Origins. This prequel explores the early days of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, set shortly after the tragic loss of his wife and daughter, which propelled him to join NIS (later NCIS). While Gibbsโ backstory has been alluded to in the flagship series, NCIS: Origins offers viewers the opportunity to see his journey unfold in detail.
Mixed Ratings Pose a Challenge
Eight episodes into its debut season, NCIS: Origins has struggled to gain traction in the ratings. According to TV Series Finale, its same-day linear ratings rank second-to-last among CBS scripted shows, just ahead of Elsbeth. In total audience numbers, the show also lags, outperforming only Poppaโs House while trailing behind series like The Neighborhood and SWAT.
Linear ratings play a significant role in determining renewals, as they directly impact advertising revenue. Unfortunately, the numbers suggest NCIS: Origins isnโt capturing the audience CBS hoped for, even under the reliable NCIS banner.
Can CBS Afford to Lose Another NCIS Spin-Off?
The cancellation of NCIS: Hawaiโi left a noticeable gap in CBSโs programming, and the networkโs decision has faced backlash from fans. While NCIS: Origins isnโt necessarily failing due to poor storytelling, prequels can be a tough sell, as audiences may not feel a strong need to revisit a characterโs origins.
Still, CBS might be hesitant to further shrink its NCIS portfolio. Renewing NCIS: Origins for a second season could serve as a stopgap while the network evaluates other potential spin-offs to reinvigorate the franchise. However, this could come at the cost of another show with stronger ratings being cut, which may not sit well with viewers.
Whatโs Next?
For now, NCIS: Origins returns on Monday, January 27, at 10/9c. Its future likely hinges on how well it performs in the back half of the season. While its current ratings are concerning, the networkโs desire to keep the NCIS brand alive might just tip the scales in favor of renewal.
Stay tuned to see if Gibbsโ early story continues to unfold or if NCIS: Origins becomes another short-lived chapter in the franchiseโs history.
