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 dec 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!
After the body of a Marine Lieutenant is found hidden under an 18-wheeler, the NCIS team tracks the vehicle’s previous locations to pinpoint the crime scene and suspect. Also, Sloane encourages the team to sit down and talk about Ziva’s recent reappearance.
The episode was rated 7.69 from 1011 votes.
The team searches for answers when the body of a well-regarded Navy technician in the Reserves is found floating in a lake where a popular community event is being held. Sloane is caught off-guard when her daughter makes an unexpected request.
The episode was rated 7.69 from 811 votes.
NCIS investigates Marine Corporal Laney Alimonte after evidence suggests she murdered her neighbor while being treated for insomnia by a hypnotherapist. Also, Gibbs befriends his new neighbors after the 9-year-old’s baseball crashes through his window.
The episode was rated 7.72 from 969 votes.
The NCIS team investigates an F-18 crash and the subsequent disappearance of the pilot; McGee reluctantly discusses a very personal decision with his teammates.
The episode was rated 7.72 from 880 votes.
The NCIS team investigates a petty officer's murder that was livestreamed on a popular gaming app; Gibbs watches his 11-year-old neighbor when his mom must leave on a last-minute trip.
The episode was rated 7.75 from 901 votes.
When Kasie and Jimmy are held hostage in a diner after a jewelry store robbery goes awry, they attempt to keep the other customers safe from the thieves.
The episode was rated 7.75 from 775 votes.
While investigating the suicide of a retired Navy officer who left a rare, valuable - and possibly stolen - coin to the National Museum of the Navy, the team imagines themselves in his life story in order to piece together how the coin ended up in his possession.
The episode was rated 7.77 from 812 votes.
After a body is found at an unmanned aerial vehicle testing site, the NCIS team must determine if the death was murder or an accident. Also, Palmer carefully interviews medical examiner assistant candidates
The episode was rated 7.78 from 864 votes.
The NCIS team links a bizarre crime scene at Arlington National Cemetery to a string of attacks on homeless veterans. Also, Vance orders McGee, Bishop and Torres to complete hours of evidence garage cleanup duty for withholding information.
The episode was rated 7.79 from 961 votes.
Gibbs and the team help Ziva with the "one thing" she said she'd take care of before returning to her family.
The episode was rated 7.87 from 888 votes.
With their lives in danger, Gibbs and Ziva’s rogue investigation takes an unexpected turn when a possible terrorist plot is revealed.
The episode was rated 7.88 from 1073 votes.
After Torres and Bishop are victims of a hit-and-run, Torres fights for his life in the Intensive Care Unit.
The episode was rated 7.89 from 888 votes.
Gibbs must face the consequences of helping Ziva with "the one thing" she said she'd take care of before returning to her family.
The episode was rated 7.89 from 878 votes.
Ziva surprises Gibbs with a cryptic warning, prompting him to question why she remained underground for years while being presumed dead by family and friends, and what led to her return.
The episode was rated 7.91 from 1140 votes.
The team tries to verify the identity of Joe Smith, who claims he served on the U.S.S. Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor, and wants to be buried there upon his death.
The episode was rated 7.98 from 788 votes.
