NCIS Season 23 is shaping up to be one of the most transformative yet. Following the emotional and tragic events of the Season 22 finale, big changes are coming – not just in storyline, but also in the show’s schedule.
CBS has confirmed that the long-running series will shift from Mondays to Tuesdays at 8/7c, starting October 14, 2025. This move marks a return to the series’ original day, but with an earlier time slot than fans are used to.
What to Expect in Season 23
Showrunner Steven D. Binder has revealed that the new season will place a stronger spotlight on character depth and emotional storytelling. Fans will see major personal developments, especially for Alden Parker (Gary Cole), who will be deeply impacted by the events surrounding his father – and new revelations tied to his mother’s death.
Parker will enter a darker, more intense chapter of his arc, similar to how NCIS previously explored the emotional unraveling of characters like Gibbs and Bishop. Expect a blend of action and emotional intensity as the show leans into its cast’s personal journeys.
The Fate of Parker & Growing Storylines
Parker’s grief will take center stage. Binder confirmed he’ll be “out for blood” in a way that’s deeply uncharacteristic – but emotionally earned. Meanwhile, fans can expect further fallout from Palmer’s discovery about Parker’s mother’s altered death certificate.
And with characters like LaRoche potentially in danger from Nexus after their betrayal, the stakes will be higher than ever. Beyond Parker, other core team members will finally get more screen time as the show leans into a “character-forward” approach, promising richer arcs for everyone.
New Time Slot & Big NCIS Night
After airing on Mondays since Season 19, NCIS is moving back to Tuesday nights, where it originally aired for its first 18 seasons. The new time – 8/7c – is an hour earlier than recent years, signaling a big programming strategy from CBS. Why the change? The network appears to be building a full NCIS-themed night:
- 8/7c – NCIS Season 23
- 9/8c – NCIS: Origins Season 2
- 10/9c – NCIS: Sydney Season 3
All three shows are set to premiere together on October 14, 2025, giving fans a stacked Tuesday lineup focused entirely on the NCIS universe.