From courtrooms to covert missions and Southern jazz to Sydney harbors, the NCIS franchise is an expansive saga with unforgettable characters, high-stakes cases, and more spin-offs than you can count on one hand.
Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been solving crimes with Gibbs since the early 2000s, watching the NCIS shows in release order gives you the clearest, most rewarding experience.
This isn’t just about chronology. It’s about legacy. So, below is a complete guide to watching every NCIS show in order. Read on!
1. JAG (1996-2005)
Start your NCIS journey with the two-part backdoor pilot in JAG (Season 8, Episodes 20 & 21, aired in 2003).
These episodes bring in Supervisory Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by Mark Harmon, along with Special Agent Anthony DiNozzo, who’s played by Michael Weatherly, and forensic specialist Abigail “Abby” Sciuto, played by Pauley Perrette.
Tuning into JAG is like seeing the magic happen between the characters for the first time!
Where to Watch: Paramount+
2. NCIS (2003–Present)
NCIS is where it all began! The show follows Supervisory Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs and his team. They crack cases that have the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps tied up in knots, and it’s been a favorite on the small screen for more than 20 years now.
You’ve got your all-stars like Special Agent Timothy McGee, played by Sean Murray, and Special Agent Ziva David, brought to life by Cote de Pablo. Don’t forget about Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, who’s been with us from the start, played by none other than David McCallum.
What really makes this show tick are the relationships between the characters. Gibbs’ way of leading his team is legendary, and his signature “Gibbs-slap” is something fans just can’t get enough of!
Where to Watch: Paramount+, CBS
3. NCIS: Los Angeles (2009–2023)
NCIS: Los Angeles is the cousin of the NCIS family, bringing the undercover work and heart-racing moments of danger to the West Coast. It’s got a duo leading the pack: Special Agent G. Callen, played by Chris O’Donnell, and LL Cool J as former Navy SEAL Sam Hanna.
If you’re someone who enjoys the original “NCIS” but craves a bit more adrenaline and a fresh vibe, this show’s your ticket. It delivers on the action front and gives us an insider look into counter-terrorism and surveillance. Plus, it’s got perhaps the best ship on the NCISverse in Densi.
Where to Watch: Paramount+
4. NCIS: New Orleans (2014–2021)
Set in the heart of Louisiana, NCIS: New Orleans follows Special Agent Dwayne Cassius Pride (Scott Bakula) and his team as they tackle crimes in a city famous for its music, food, and culture.
This series stands out for its Southern charm, local flavor, and a close-knit team. If you love character-driven stories with a unique setting, this one’s for you.
Where to Watch: Paramount+
5. NCIS: Hawai’i (2021–2024)
NCIS: Hawai’i is the first series in the franchise led by a female Special Agent in Charge, Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey).
With its island scenery and a fresh, diverse team, this show brings new energy and perspective to the NCIS world. It’s a great entry point for new fans and a fun change of pace for longtime viewers.
Where to Watch: Paramount+
6. NCIS: Sydney (2023–Present)
The first international spin-off, NCIS: Sydney, introduces a new team of special agents investigating naval crimes in Australia. Australia? Yes, Australia. Somehow it works, meshing the local team with the NCIS agents for a fresh take at the stories we’ve seen before.
With new faces, Aussie culture, and reenergized storylines, the NCIS universe brings a global twist to the classic formula.
Where to Watch: Paramount+
7. NCIS: Origins (2024–Present)
Go back in time with NCIS: Origins, a prequel series set in the 1990s that explores the early career of Leroy Jethro Gibbs.
See how Gibbs became the leader and legend he is today, with plenty of Easter eggs and callbacks for dedicated fans. Watching this after the original series lets you appreciate all the character development and franchise lore. Sure, it’s set before NCIS, but would it really make sense if you don’t already know Gibbs? The answer is no.
Where to Watch: Paramount+
8. NCIS: Tony & Ziva (Expected Fall 2025)
The highly awaited NCIS: Tony & Ziva reunites Special Agent Anthony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) and former Mossad officer Ziva David (Cote de Pablo) for new international adventures.
Many have waited YEARS to see this duo back in action, with plenty of chemistry, unresolved tension, and answers to questions about their relationship. Are they together? If not, why aren’t they? The quintessential NCIS ship returns to answer all those questions.
Where to Watch: Paramount+ upon release.
