The NCIS franchise is set to break a long-standing rule that has guided its spinoffs for the past 15 years. Traditionally, new NCIS series have been introduced through backdoor pilots within existing NCIS shows, seamlessly weaving new characters and settings into the established universe before launching them into standalone series. However, the upcoming spinoffs “NCIS: Origins” and “NCIS: Tony & Ziva” are diverging from this model, marking a significant shift in the franchise’s expansion strategy.

“NCIS: Origins” will delve into the early days of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, providing historical context and enriching the franchise’s lore without the typical introductory crossover. Meanwhile, “NCIS: Tony & Ziva” focuses on fan-favorite characters Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David, continuing their story directly rather than starting fresh within an existing show. This departure from the traditional spinoff formula reflects a bold move by the franchise to explore new narrative techniques and cater directly to the interests of its dedicated fanbase, potentially setting a new precedent for future expansions.