CBS is having a banner fall, thanks to the NCIS franchise's renewed vigor. The network's premiere week in October was its strongest in years, averaging 5.49 million viewers across its three NCIS shows and becoming the most-watched primetime lineup that evening. A big part of that success is the return of Michael Weatherly as Tony DiNozzo in Season 24 and Mark Harmon's presence in NCIS: Origins Season 3. But the real standout has been the newest addition, NCIS: New York.
Taking over the 9 p.m. slot, LL COOL J's return to the Big Apple delivered a 53% boost in viewership compared to Origins' Season 2 premiere. The show, shot on location in New York City, has earned both strong ratings and positive reviews, cementing its place in the franchise. However, this new city-based series has pushed the international arm, NCIS: Sydney, to the sidelines.
For the first time since its debut, NCIS: Sydney won't air new episodes this year. The joint task force, led by Supervisory Special Agent Michelle Mackey (Olivia Swann) and Australian Federal Police Sergeant Jim "JD" Dempsey (Todd Lasance), was renewed for a fourth season back in January, but CBS has decided to hold it for midseason. The network's Tuesday night lineup is already packed with naval crime procedurals, so Sydney is being benched until 2027.
Filming for Season 4 actually began in April, but fans will have to wait until January 2027 to see the new episodes. This delay is part of a broader strategy at CBS, which is also holding back other favorites like Matlock Season 3 and Ghosts Season 6. While Ghosts at least had a Halloween special to tide fans over, Sydney has nothing on the horizon this year.
The decision to prioritize NCIS: New York over Sydney is a clear signal of CBS's confidence in the former. The show's success has been a pleasant surprise, and the network is eager to capitalize on its momentum. Meanwhile, Sydney's loyal fanbase will have to exercise patience, but the renewal ensures the series isn't going anywhere.
For those who can't get enough of the NCIS universe, there's plenty to keep you occupied. Check out our recap of the franchise's recent hiatus and what to expect when it returns. And if you're a fan of international crime dramas, you might also enjoy Blue Eye Samurai's upcoming season, which also lands in January 2027.
While the wait for NCIS: Sydney Season 4 is longer than expected, the show's future remains bright. With production already underway, the new episodes are sure to deliver the same high-octane action and cross-cultural intrigue that have made the series a hit. Until then, fans can revisit earlier seasons or dive into other corners of the NCIS universe.
Stay tuned for more updates as CBS finalizes its midseason schedule. The network is clearly betting big on its crime procedurals, and NCIS: Sydney will eventually get its chance to shine again.
