Hey everyone, welcome back to the channel! Today, we’re diving into a truly special topic that resonates with every NCIS fan. After 20 years on the show, Brian Dietzen, who brings Dr. Jimmy Palmer to life, has shared his vision for his character’s final moments—it’s both moving and profound.
Brian Dietzen first joined NCIS back in 2004, starting as a guest star in Season 1. Over the years, we’ve watched his character, Jimmy Palmer, evolve from Dr. Mallard’s assistant to the chief medical examiner of the team. Dietzen’s portrayal has made him an integral part of the series, and it’s hard to imagine NCIS without him. As the franchise gears up for its 22nd season, Dietzen stands as one of the longest-serving cast members alongside Sean Murray, with their dedication being cornerstones of the show’s success.
While it’s painful to think about losing Jimmy Palmer, Dietzen’s idea for his character’s exit is deeply touching. During a panel at the Monte Carlo Television Festival in June 2024, Dietzen and co-stars Wilmer Valderrama, Michael Weatherly, and Cote de Pablo discussed potential endings for their characters. While Valderrama suggested a dramatic end for Nick Torres, Dietzen envisioned a more poignant fate for Jimmy.
He revealed his wish for Jimmy to contract ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease. This isn’t a passing thought; Dietzen sees it as a way to raise awareness for a significant cause. ALS is a devastating disease, and for a doctor like Jimmy, facing such a challenge would be profoundly impactful.
Dietzen imagines Jimmy grappling with the disease over time, initially trying to conceal his symptoms, creating a deeply emotional storyline. Jimmy has already faced considerable grief, including the loss of close colleagues and his wife, Breena, to COVID-19. Shifting from being a victim of loss to embodying it, especially concerning his daughter Victoria, would add a rich emotional layer to his story.
The potential storyline would depict Jimmy preparing Victoria for a future without him, transforming his journey into one of acceptance and preparation. Dietzen is passionate about this narrative and has even expressed interest in co-writing it, given his previous contributions to the show’s scripts. His involvement would ensure authenticity and depth, making Jimmy’s final moments resonate even more with viewers—a true testament to his commitment to the role.
Brian Dietzen’s vision for Jimmy Palmer’s exit from NCIS is more than just an ending; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the impact one character can have. As fans, it’s both heartbreaking and beautiful to see such thoughtfulness put into a character’s farewell. What do you think of Dietzen’s idea for Jimmy Palmer’s final storyline? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon for more updates on your favorite shows. Until next time, stay safe and keep watching!
