NCIS is one of the longest-running crime drama series on CBS. It first aired in 2003 and is currently in its 22nd season. The show follows a team of special agents as they investigate military-related crimes. It has gained a large following and has been praised for its action-packed plotlines. For those looking to jump in, here are the best episodes of NCIS ranked.
The top NCIS episodes all feature exciting investigations with twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Additionally, many of them showcase the personal relationships between the agents and the criminals they're pursuing. From solving cases involving stolen submarines to terrorism, these episodes will keep you guessing until the very end.
From investigating a Navy officer's suspicious death to tracking down a terrorist organization, these NCIS episodes are sure to keep you hooked. Whether you're a long-time fan or a new viewer, these episodes are the perfect way to get into the show. So, read on and discover the best episodes of NCIS ranked.
Written by Sophie and last updated on apr 18, 2024.
PS: The following content contains spoilers!
PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!
The team must rely on an irritable Vietnam War veteran to solve a Marine's murder.
The episode was rated 7.72 from 1729 votes.
A gunnery sergeant's murder in a national park lead the team to join forces with the mounted police. While investigating the clues, they uncover a disturbing smuggling ring.
The episode was rated 7.72 from 1751 votes.
After NCIS Agent Bishop is sent to Gitmo to gather evidence for a Navy chaplain murder case, she questions her previous work at the NSA. Also, Bishop’s brothers, John and Robert, visit for the Thanksgiving holiday and pester her co-workers to find out who she is dating.
The episode was rated 7.73 from 1819 votes.
After Abby's homeland security think tank is compromised and she is found in possession of a real bomb, the NCIS team discovers the leader of the group has been murdered and a theoretical terror playbook has been stolen. The crossover continues on NCIS: New Orleans S03E14 Pandora's Box (II).
The episode was rated 7.74 from 1855 votes.
After the body of a navy lieutenant is discovered aboard a destroyer during a tiger cruise, when civilian guests are allowed to spend the night on the ship, Gibbs, Quinn and Palmer travel out to sea to investigate. Also, McGee contemplates the perfect proposal for Delilah Fielding.
The episode was rated 7.75 from 1861 votes.
When Gibbs spots the brother of an "NCIS Most Wanted" suspect, he takes the opportunity to assume his former alias and go undercover with their infamous anti-government militia. This leaves the NCIS team to piece together where and what Gibbs is up to. Meanwhile, Bishop and Reeves partner up on an off-the-books investigation.
The episode was rated 7.75 from 1537 votes.
Torres boldly breaks protocol when he learns a witness in an NCIS case is wanted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Also, Abby, Bishop and McGee woo landlord Tony DiNozzo Sr. in the hope of subletting Tony’s apartment.
The episode was rated 7.76 from 1878 votes.
NCIS searches for new leads after an undercover operation to apprehend a businessman who uses acts of terror to manipulate the stock market is compromised. Also, Bishop and Qasim find a break in the case together.
The episode was rated 7.76 from 1816 votes.
The NCIS team investigates a deadly car explosion in D.C. that connects to NCIS Special Agent Nicholas “Nick” Torres, who disappeared six months ago while on a deep undercover assignment in Argentina. Also, Gibbs asks NCIS Special Agent Alexandra “Alex” Quinn to shadow his team after rejecting eight agents she instructed and referred for the open position.
The episode was rated 7.77 from 2026 votes.
After the NCIS team tracks evidence from the murder of a Navy captain to Ducky’s deceased mother, Ducky looks back and questions a pivotal life choice he made 37 years ago. Also, the team exchanges holiday gifts, and Gibbs spends Christmas dinner with Fornell.
The episode was rated 7.77 from 1800 votes.
McGee discovers his apartment has been torn apart by a robber trying to locate an item of great value hidden somewhere by the convicted criminal who previously owned the unit. Also, Congresswoman Flemming (Mary Stuart Masterson) tries to persuade Director Vance to pursue a career in politics.
The episode was rated 7.81 from 1861 votes.
To carry out a sailor's dying wish, Gibbs and the NCIS team reinvestigate a murder case that was originally ruled an accidental death. Also, the case reminds Torres of a tragic time from his past.
The episode was rated 7.85 from 1839 votes.
The team suspects foul play when a healthy, young petty officer mysteriously dies in his sleep aboard a Navy destroyer. Wedding stress reaches its peak for McGee and his fiancée.
The episode was rated 7.86 from 1754 votes.
When a Navy SEAL vanishes during an unsanctioned trip, Gibbs, McGee and Torres travel to an unpopulated area in Paraguay that's teeming with violent rebels.
The episode was rated 7.92 from 1875 votes.
In the episode of NCIS titled “Keep Going”, the investigation of a hit-and-run leads Palmer to join a stranger on the outside ledge of a building in an attempt to save his life. This episode was highly acclaimed by viewers, with many citing it as the best since the death of Kate way back in season 2.
The episode was filled with emotion, leaving many viewers with tears and admiration for the character of Palmer. The audience was particularly moved by the hug between Palmer and the stranger, a moment that was celebrated on social media as a truly beautiful scene.
The episode was rated 8.12 from 1862 votes.
