The official release date of NCIS season 18 remains uncertain at the moment since production hasn't kicked off yet. But, it looks like the new installment may premiere later this 2020 as CBS is planning to release some of its series before the year ends.
Reportedly, NCIS season 18 is eyeing for a November release date. Yet, it should be noted that the plan is still tentative and the decision might be changed. But, if this will push through, the upcoming installment won't release its new episodes on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
It is Election Day, so CBS won't be dropping the new season on that day as most people are busy. CarterMatt noted that the earliest we could see the series is on Tuesday, Nov. 10. If production begins in the second week of September, the series will have enough time to prepare everything.
Usually, cast and crew start filming in mid-July leading to a late September premiere. However, NCIS season 18 wasn't able to follow that schedule due to the current global health crisis. Also, the previous season was cut short because of the pandemic.
Now, if the series will, indeed, premiere on Nov. 10, then, we could expect at least three episodes in that month -- if they don't take a week off for Thanksgiving. After that, we could see another two or three episodes in December before the holiday break.
According to CarterMatt, NCIS season 18 could make up for the lost time by filming over the holiday hiatus. They could have a short break this time around, and it would be beneficial for everyone since the set is much safer.
As for what we can expect, the new installment will deliver its 400th episode and will explore the early days of certain characters. Gibbs (Mark Harmon) and Ducky's (David McCallum) history will, particularly, be addressed. We could learn more about their origins and what they've been through in the past.
The two developed a rapport and they know the weaknesses and strengths of each other. Perhaps, the episode will include flashbacks to address certain timelines. We could see a younger version of Gibbs and Ducky taking on some cases in the past.
Meanwhile, it's yet to be seen if we could see more of Ducky in NCIS season 18 after the 400th episode. McCallum has taken smaller roles over the past years to spend more time with his family. Hence, the decision is still up to McCallum; whether or not he wants to appear in the series for a long time.
