NCIS celebrated a monumental milestone with its 1000th episode airing on April 15th, and fan favorites from the cast have shared insights into the “secret sauce” behind the show’s success.
Appearing as guests on “The Talk” ahead of the milestone episode, stars including Sean Murray, Rocky Carroll, Gary Cole, Vanessa Lachey, and LL Cool J discussed the key to the show’s enduring popularity.
For Murray, who portrays Timothy McGee, the secret lies in the close bonds among the cast. He emphasized the genuine familial connection among the NCIS team, describing them as a true family. Murray highlighted how the entire NCIS franchise, including its spin-offs, forms a large extended family, contributing to the show’s longevity.
Reflecting on the unexpected success of the series, Murray expressed disbelief at the idea of achieving such longevity. He remarked on the rarity of a show lasting for 22 years and emphasized the gratitude felt by the cast for the opportunity to be part of such an enduring project.
Mark Harmon, a longtime star of NCIS, echoed similar sentiments in a previous interview with Fox News Digital, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie among the cast and crew. Harmon attributed the show’s success to its focus on characters, humor, and the evolution of storytelling over the years.
While Harmon departed the series in 2021, fans remain hopeful for his return. Harmon previously shared that his decision to join NCIS was influenced by his character’s unique name, Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, highlighting the significance of the role to him.
As NCIS continues to captivate audiences, the camaraderie and dedication of its cast and crew remain at the heart of its enduring appeal.