When NCIS returns for Season 23, fans can look forward to a special twist that honors one of the show’s most beloved characters – Jimmy Palmer.

The new season picks up right where the finale left off, with Alden Parker struggling after his father’s death. While his team tries to help him, Parker’s quest for vengeance won’t be the only focus. Another familiar face is stepping into the spotlight – Jimmy Palmer.

A “Day in the Life” Episode for Jimmy Palmer

According to TV Insider, one Season 23 episode will center entirely on Brian Dietzen’s character, following a “day in the life” of the chief medical examiner. The episode will echo Season 10’s fan-favorite “Detour,” where Jimmy and Ducky were kidnapped – marking a return to that storytelling style 12 years later.

This time, the episode won’t necessarily feature another abduction. Instead, it will show “the world through the eyes of Jimmy,” executive producer Steven D. Binder revealed. The story might follow a regular NCIS case told from Jimmy’s perspective – or dive into his personal journey. Either way, it’s an episode written (or co-written) by Dietzen himself.

Why Jimmy Deserves the Spotlight

Fans have long considered Jimmy the heart of NCIS. Introduced in Season 1 as Ducky’s quirky assistant, he’s evolved into the chief medical examiner – and one of the show’s most grounded, genuine characters.

While NCIS has featured many beloved faces, few have shown as much growth as Jimmy Palmer. He’s gone from comic relief to emotional anchor, and after more than two decades on the show, it’s about time he gets an episode all his own.