After 22 seasons, the long-running CBS show NCIS has bid farewell to its final original cast member. After nearly two decades, the writers have written the character out, signaling the end of an era for the show, which premiered in 2003.

Throughout its successful run, NCIS has seen many beloved characters exit, with new faces stepping in to keep the series fresh and engaging. The death of David McCallum last year, who played Dr. Ducky Mallard, left Timothy McGee (Sean Murray) as the longest-serving current cast member. However, Joe Spano, who played recurring character Tobias Fornell, has also been a staple since the first episode, though his future on the show now appears uncertain.

In the latest episode “Sticks and Stones,” Deputy Director Wayne Sweeney (Erik Passoja) is introduced as the new FBI representative, implying that Spano’s character may be phased out. Sweeney’s link to current team leader Alden Parker (Gary Cole) suggests a shift in dynamics, which could rule out Fornell’s return.

Meanwhile, fans can look forward to more changes in the NCIS universe with the development of a new spinoff, NCIS: Tony and Ziva. The show will reunite Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo as Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David, reviving their iconic chemistry. Their characters, last seen off-screen in Paris, will return to lead the new series.

With these transitions, NCIS continues to evolve while remaining a fan favorite after 22 years on air.