“NCIS” has been a staple of crime television for over two decades, but Season 22 has exposed a frustrating problem that’s been lingering for far too long—how the show handles Alden Parker. While Gary Cole is a phenomenal actor, his character still hasn’t found solid footing. Episode 10 only reinforces this ongoing issue, making fans wonder: Is Parker doomed to be underwhelming forever?

Parker’s Struggle to Connect With Fans

When Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs left “NCIS,” fans knew it would be tough to replace such an iconic character. Enter Alden Parker—quirky, intelligent, and with a completely different leadership style. But while change can be good, Parker’s introduction has been anything but smooth.

Despite Gary Cole’s best efforts, Parker remains frustratingly underdeveloped. His character often feels inconsistent, making it hard for fans to connect with him in the same way they did with Gibbs.

Season 22, Episode 10: More of the Same

Episode 10 was another missed opportunity. Instead of giving Parker depth, the show continues to treat him like a placeholder. He lacks the commanding presence that Gibbs had, but worse, the writers haven’t given him a unique edge to make up for it.

Rather than growing into his role, Parker feels stuck in limbo. His interactions with the team are surface-level, and he rarely has moments that make him stand out as a leader.

What’s Wrong With Parker’s Character?

So why isn’t Parker working? Here are some of the biggest issues:

1. Inconsistent Personality

Parker is supposed to be more laid-back than Gibbs, but at times, he comes across as too casual. The balance between being lighthearted and authoritative just isn’t there.

2. Lack of Backstory Depth

Unlike Gibbs, who had a rich history that shaped his decisions, Parker’s background feels vague. Fans don’t know enough about his past to truly invest in him.

3. Weak Leadership Presence

Gibbs commanded respect effortlessly. While Parker isn’t meant to be a copy of him, he doesn’t carry the same weight, making his leadership feel unconvincing.

4. Forced Humor

NCIS has always had moments of humor, but Parker’s comedic moments often feel out of place. Instead of being naturally funny, they seem forced and awkward.

The Gibbs Shadow: Is Parker Set Up to Fail?

One major issue with Parker’s character is that he’s constantly compared to Gibbs. No matter what he does, fans see him as Gibbs’ replacement rather than a fully developed character.

The show should have done more to establish Parker in his own right before throwing him into the lead role. Instead, he was introduced hastily, leaving audiences with little reason to be invested in him.

What Needs to Change?

If “NCIS” wants Parker to succeed, they need to fix a few key things:

1. Give Parker a Meaningful Arc

Right now, Parker feels like he’s just there. He needs a storyline that gives him real stakes and emotional depth. Maybe an old case comes back to haunt him, or we learn more about his past in a compelling way.

2. Strengthen His Leadership Style

Parker doesn’t need to be another Gibbs, but he does need to feel like a real leader. Giving him defining moments where he proves his authority would help.

3. Stop Relying on Quirkiness

While it’s great that Parker is different from Gibbs, his quirks shouldn’t be his only defining trait. He needs layers beyond just being the “fun boss.”

4. Build Stronger Relationships With the Team

Some of the best moments in “NCIS” history come from the bond between team members. Parker still feels like an outsider—giving him more meaningful interactions with Torres, McGee, and Knight would help integrate him better.

The Fan Reaction: Frustration Is Growing

Many longtime fans have been vocal about their disappointment with Parker’s development. Some are even calling for the return of Gibbs, though that seems unlikely. The common complaint? Parker doesn’t feel like a real leader, and his character isn’t compelling enough to carry the show.

Could NCIS Be Setting Up a New Leader?

With “NCIS” continuing past Season 22, some fans wonder if Parker’s days are numbered. The show could be positioning another character—like McGee or Torres—to take over in the future.

If Parker doesn’t get a meaningful arc soon, it wouldn’t be surprising if “NCIS” quietly phases him out.

Will Parker Ever Work As a Lead?

The answer depends on how the writers handle him moving forward. If they take the time to flesh out his character, give him compelling personal stakes, and strengthen his leadership, Parker could still win over audiences.

But if Season 22 continues to treat him as an afterthought, his time on “NCIS” could be running out.

Final Thoughts

“NCIS” has proven time and time again that it can evolve. But Parker’s character remains one of its biggest weak spots. If the show doesn’t make changes soon, his presence could drag the series down instead of keeping it fresh.

Will the writers fix Parker’s issues? Or is he destined to be the show’s weakest lead? Only time will tell.