While the procedural elements remained, viewers noted a darker, more somber tone as the "family" at NCIS faced internal and external threats they couldn't simply solve in an hour.
This season solidified Brian Dietzen (Jimmy Palmer) as a series regular after nine years on the show. Every Major NCIS Guest Star Ever - TV Guide
Critics and fans alike praised Cote de Pablo for her performance in the "Shiva" arc, citing it as some of the series' best acting.
The season leaned heavily into character backstories, featuring notable appearances by Anthony DiNozzo Sr. (Robert Wagner) and the introduction of Admiral John McGee (Jamey Sheridan), Timothy McGee's estranged father.
The mid-season double-header, " Shabbat Shalom " and " Shiva ," is the emotional core of the year. The assassination of Ziva’s father, Eli David, and Director Vance’s wife, Jackie, sent the team into a season-long spiral of vengeance.
Season Premiere: The team hunts Harper Dearing after the Navy Yard bombing.