The NCIS universe is no stranger to jaw-dropping surprises, and Season 22 appears to be no exception. A recent teaser from one of the show’s stars has sparked excitement and speculation among fans, as they hinted that a beloved former character could be making a highly anticipated return. With such an extensive roster of memorable characters, the burning question remains: Who will it be?
A Cryptic Hint from the CastWhile details remain under wraps, a member of the NCIS cast recently hinted in an interview that fans will “definitely recognize” a returning character in Season 22. This revelation has set the fanbase into overdrive, analyzing past storylines and potential plot twists that could bring back a former team member or recurring character.
Top Contenders for the Big ComebackThere are several possibilities when it comes to which fan-favorite character might be making a return. Here are some of the most talked-about options:
Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly): A longtime fan favorite, Tony left the show in Season 13 to raise his daughter after discovering that Ziva was (seemingly) dead. With Michael Weatherly recently teasing a return to the NCIS universe, could this be the moment Tony finally comes home?
Ziva David (Cote de Pablo): Ziva made an unexpected return in Season 17, revealing that she had faked her death. She ultimately reunited with Tony and their daughter, but with NCIS’s penchant for revisiting past characters, another surprise appearance isn’t out of the question.
Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon): Gibbs’ emotional departure in Season 19 left fans heartbroken but hopeful. Since Mark Harmon remains involved with NCIS as an executive producer, many wonder if his character could return for a brief but powerful moment.
Timothy McGee’s Wife, Delilah Fielding (Margo Harshman): Delilah has had a limited presence on the show in recent years, but she has been a beloved part of McGee’s storyline. Could her return hint at a personal arc for McGee?
Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard (David McCallum): Following the passing of actor David McCallum in 2023, fans have been wondering how NCIS will honor his character’s legacy. If a flashback or tribute episode is in the works, Ducky’s return—through archival footage or unseen clips—could be an emotional highlight of the season.
How Could the Returning Character Fit into the Story?Given the episodic yet interconnected nature of NCIS, a returning character could play a variety of roles. They might be part of an old case that resurfaces, offer guidance or closure to a current team member, or even rejoin the team in some capacity.
If it’s a major figure like Tony or Ziva, the return could involve a high-stakes mission or an emotional reunion with their former colleagues. If it’s Gibbs, his presence alone would be enough to shake things up, especially considering his mentorship of the current team.
What This Means for Season 22With NCIS continuing to evolve, the return of a fan-favorite character is bound to bring excitement, nostalgia, and new narrative twists. Whether it’s a one-time cameo or a more extended role, the return of a beloved figure will undoubtedly make Season 22 even more compelling.
For now, fans will have to keep their eyes peeled for more clues—but one thing is for sure: NCIS is about to deliver a must-watch moment that longtime viewers won’t want to miss!
