NCIS star Wilmer Valderrama recently opened up about the strong camaraderie among the cast as they work toward the 1,000th episode milestone of the long-running police procedural.
“We have a blast on set!” Valderrama told People, highlighting the joy of working with a team that shares a deep passion for their craft. Despite the show’s intense and often dark storylines, Valderrama noted that the set is filled with laughter. “The funny thing is, the darker the case, the funnier the set. We laugh our asses off. And it doesn’t hurt that the world comes along and enjoys it with us.”
Valderrama joined NCIS in 2016 as Agent Nick Torres and has since become a series regular. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed his gratitude for being part of a show that continues to resonate with its audience. “It’s been such an honor to contribute to a show that understands itself and listens to its fans.”
Since its premiere in 2003, NCIS has remained a fan favorite and is now in its 21st season, alongside spin-offs like NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: Hawai’i. The franchise’s future is bright, with the main series recently renewed for a 22nd season and the newest spin-off, NCIS: Sydney, confirmed for a second season.
As for Valderrama’s character, Torres faced a dramatic turn at the start of season 21, getting arrested for murder in the premiere after confronting a childhood tormentor. The season also paid tribute to David McCallum, who portrayed Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard for over 20 years, following his passing on September 25, 2023, at the age of 90.
