In the upcoming 1000th episode of NCIS, a fan-favorite character will be making a return. Instead of a big crossover event, the long-standing CBS franchise has chosen to focus on its primary show for this milestone episode. The special offering, which will be aired as NCIS season 21, episode 7 on April 15, will center its storytelling around the character of long-time NCIS director Leon Vance.
A recent set photo shared by Shelby Flannery on Instagram has confirmed that Joe Spano's character, Tobias Fornell, will be making a comeback for NCIS' 1000th episode.
Instagram article posted by shelby.flannery
Special Agent Alden Parker and his team are definitely capable of rescuing Vance, but it's always great to have some extra support from our long-time friends. Flannery shared a fun behind-the-scenes photo of the NCIS cast all smiles, showing that they're a close-knit group both on and off the screen.
Will NCIS 1000th Episode Feature The Return Of Any Original Character?
Fornell and Gibbs talk in front of a car in NCIS Head Of The Snake - Will NCIS 1000th Episode Feature The Return Of Any Original Character?
Fornell is a well-known recurring guest star in NCIS. He initially appeared as an FBI agent who worked alongside Leroy Jethro Gibbs and his team. Over time, their friendship deepened despite facing various challenges. Unfortunately, Fornell wasn't able to bid a proper farewell to Gibbs upon his retirement. It raises curiosity whether Fornell's role in Vance's upcoming dilemma in NCIS season 21 could lead to Gibbs' return to DC, especially since he was absent during Ducky's farewell episode.
It remains uncertain how Fornell is connected to Vance's current situation, given that he left the force some time ago. Nevertheless, his ties within the FBI could prove to be valuable. In the event that Mark Harmon is unable to make an appearance, Fornell might step in as a replacement for Gibbs. Apart from the former team leader, other characters could also play a part. Michael Weatherly recently reprised his role as Tony DiNozzo, and there's a possibility that Cote de Pablo's Ziva David could make a return in future episodes.
NCIS' 1000th episode, which includes all its popular spinoffs, may be better celebrated by honoring the original installment that started it all. It's fitting that the episode also features an original cast member. Tim McGee and Jimmy Palmer appeared in the first season, but they were not part of the original cast. Therefore, CBS only has Harmon, Weatherly, and Pauley Perrette, who played Abby Sciuto, as options.
NCIS season 21 airs every Monday at 9pm ET on CBS.
Source: Shelby Flannery/Instagram
Editor's P/S:
The upcoming 1000th episode of NCIS promises to be a grand celebration, and the return of fan-favorite character Tobias Fornell is a welcome addition. His close bond with former NCIS director Leon Vance suggests he may play a pivotal role in resolving Vance's current predicament. While it remains uncertain if Mark Harmon will reprise his iconic role as Gibbs, the possibility of other original cast members making an appearance adds to the excitement.
The article also raises the intriguing question of whether the 1000th episode should honor the original installment of NCIS. While Tim McGee and Jimmy Palmer have been long-standing members of the team, their absence from the first season suggests that CBS may consider bringing back one of the original cast members, such as Mark Harmon, Michael Weatherly, or Pauley Perrette. Regardless of who returns, the 1000th episode of NCIS is shaping up to be a memorable event that will pay tribute to the show's rich history and loyal fanbase.
