For the first time in five years, NCIS has lost its status as the most-watched show on TV, with the new series Tracker surpassing it in viewership. Despite this, NCIS will continue with its 22nd season, demonstrating the enduring strength and consistency of the franchise.
NCIS, which premiered in 2003 as a spin-off from JAG, has developed a unique identity and sustained a loyal following for over two decades. However, season 21 saw a decline, with NCIS drawing approximately 9.7 million weekly viewers. In contrast, Tracker, led by Justin Hartley, attracted 10.8 million weekly viewers in its debut season during the delayed 2023-2024 season. This marks the first time in half a decade that NCIS did not top the most-watched series list.
Despite this setback, CBS remains committed to NCIS, highlighting the show’s consistent performance over the years. The franchise’s strength is further evidenced by the introduction of new spin-offs, including NCIS: Origins, narrated and produced by Mark Harmon, and the upcoming NCIS: Tony & Ziva, featuring Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo.
Tracker’s success can be attributed to several factors, including its debut year premiering after the Super Bowl and Hartley’s return to TV following the conclusion of This Is Us. While Tracker’s performance is noteworthy, it is essential to consider these contributing factors. The 2024-2025 TV ratings will provide a clearer picture of its standing among peers, including NCIS.
Despite their differences, both NCIS and Tracker have a place on CBS’s roster. Although both feature weekly cases, their premises are distinct enough to coexist. It is highly unlikely that CBS would cancel a show with such a proven track record as NCIS simply because it did not top the most-watched list for a sixth consecutive year.