From early on, NCIS has shown how character departures can leave profound ripples across both the narrative and its fans. The unexpected loss of Caitlin “Kate” Todd in Season 2 was one of the most impactful moments in the show’s history—shocking the audience and setting the tone for a series unafraid to make bold, emotional choices. Her exit reshaped the team’s dynamics and paved the way for Ziva David’s entrance, altering the series’ trajectory forever.

Ziva’s eventual departure was equally significant. Her character’s strength and emotional complexity made her departure feel like the end of an era. The void she left behind affected Tony, Gibbs, and viewers alike, underscoring the depth of her influence on the show’s emotional core. Though she later returned in surprising ways, the impact of her initial absence continued to echo through later storylines.

When Abby Sciuto exited after many cherished seasons, it marked the end of another golden chapter. Her quirky energy and gothic charm provided balance and warmth, and her farewell story brought heartache and reflection to the team. Her absence reminded fans just how deeply attached they had become—not just to the crime-solving heroes, but to the individuals who made NCIS feel like home.

Finally, the retirement of Gibbs represented perhaps the most seismic shift of all. For nearly two decades, he had been the moral and emotional anchor of the show. His decision to step away not only altered the team’s structure and tone but also closed the book on a definitive era of NCIS. These character exits remind us just how integral each role was—and how deeply their legacies endure.