The possibility of Jane Tennant transitioning from NCIS: Hawai’i to the main NCIS series as a replacement for Jessica Knight presents an intriguing narrative opportunity, albeit with certain conditions.
Tennant, having served as the Special Agent-in-Charge of the NCIS: Hawaiʻi Field Office, would need to be demoted to an NCIS Senior Field Agent to join Parker’s team on the mainland. While this may seem like a step down from her previous position, it could serve as the only feasible way to address the unresolved cliffhanger ending of NCIS: Hawai’i.
The recent NCIS season 21 finale, “Reef Madness,” offered a relatively subdued conclusion amidst a tumultuous year. However, it laid the groundwork for potential future storylines, particularly regarding the mystery identity of Lily and Knight’s career decision to become the REACT team’s chief training officer at Camp Pendleton.
Knight’s departure from the Major Case Response Team (MCRT) leaves an open slot, and Tennant emerges as a fitting replacement. Given Tennant’s established character and ties to the main NCIS series, her integration into Parker’s team could facilitate a smoother transition and continuity for NCIS: Hawai’i’s narrative.
However, such a move necessitates Tennant’s demotion, which poses a significant challenge considering her previous leadership role. Yet, it may be the most viable option to ensure her storyline continues, particularly in light of NCIS: Hawai’i’s unresolved plotlines following its cancellation.
While the specifics of the finale’s ending remain vague, transferring Tennant to the main NCIS series presents a plausible solution for addressing unresolved narratives without the revival of NCIS: Hawai’i. This temporary position could serve as a bridge until her lingering storyline is officially addressed, offering viewers a sense of closure and continuity. Though not without its drawbacks, this scenario provides a pragmatic approach to maintaining narrative coherence within the NCIS universe.