Some new behind-the-scenes images for the NCIS 1000th episode hint at why a fan-favorite character is returning. CBS’ most popular franchise is crossing a major milestone this year as it releases its 1000th overall offering. Instead of a big crossover, the storytelling will focus on the mothership series as Special Agent Alden Parker and his team rush to sort out a case that puts Director Vance in jeopardy. Besides the main squad, however, they’ll get some help from an old ally — Joe Spano’s Tobias Fornell.
On his Instagram, Sean Murray shares set images for the NCIS season 21 episode that will air on April 15, featuring Spano’s Fornell with Tim McGee and Parker. Check out the images below:
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The photos are taken in the NCIS interrogation room set. The fact that Spano is standing behind the one-way glass panel that separates the room from the viewing space hints that Fornell won’t be a suspect in this case. Instead, he reunites with NCIS to help them crack the mystery.
How Fornell’s NCIS Return Impacts Gibbs’ Possible Cameo
However, Spano’s Fornell already coming back reduces the chances of Gibbs also showing up.
Bringing in someone like Spano for the 1000th NCIS episode is a treat for long-time followers of the police procedural. While he was never a part of the titular team, he was a recurring guest star, primarily as a liaison for the FBI. Considering the agency’s usual tense relationship with its fellow government organization, having a friendly face in Fornell was a big help. Beyond work, Fornell also shared a strong friendship with Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Unfortunately, the pair wasn’t able to say goodbye before Gibbs left for his retirement in Alaska in NCIS season 19.
Gibbs didn’t return for Ducky’s tribute episode. Therefore, there’s an expectation that he will pop up at a later time in the show, and the 1000th episode seems like the perfect time for him to do that. Not only is it a milestone episode, but Parker’s team could also use his help to solve Vance’s case. However, Spano’s Fornell already coming back reduces the chances of Gibbs also showing up. From a storytelling standpoint, CBS may have chosen to bring back a beloved character like him to make up for not having Gibbs involved in the special.
Beyond Gibbs, several other NCIS characters can return. Michael Weatherly’s comeback as Tony DiNozzo sets a precedent for his potential cameo. Perhaps this time, he already has Ziva David with him. Unfortunately, it’s highly unlikely that Pauley Perrette will appear as Abby Sciuto, considering how her exit went down.
