Wilmer Valderrama, NCIS
Wilmer Valderrama of NCIS. (Paramount+/X)

‘NCIS’ Star Teases An Earth Shattering Death In Upcoming Season 22 Finale

"NCIS" fans are facing a gut-wrenching Season 22 finale, airing Monday at 9 p.m. ET on CBS. Star Wilmer Valderrama, who plays Special Agent Nick Torres, warned of an "earth-shattering" death. Speaking on "CBS Mornings," Valderrama said, "Somebody dies -- and it's not the murder of the week." He added, "It's someone very close to us, and it's going to be heartbreaking." However, he kept the victim's identity under wraps.

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The finale, streaming Tuesday on Paramount+, will disrupt the team's dynamic. Valderrama, a cast member since 2016, said the death will "shake up the team" and push them to "go rogue" in Season 23. CBS renewed "NCIS" for a 23rd season, ensuring the show's return. Yet, the finale's impact could alter the main cast, including Valderrama, Sean Murray, Brian Dietzen, Rocky Carroll, Diona Reasonover, Katrina Law, and Gary Cole.

A Season-Long Mystery Unfolds

The episode ties into the Nexus Cartel storyline and Deputy Director LaRoche's actions, a thread woven throughout Season 22. Although details remain scarce, the death will likely escalate this plot. For instance, Valderrama noted the finale aims to "disrupt the peace" of the season and set a bold tone for Season 23. Entertainment Weekly and TVLine confirmed the episode's high stakes, aligning with Valderrama's comments.

Meanwhile, speculation swirls about the victim. Sean Murray, who plays Timothy McGee, expressed concerns about his character's future in a 2024 People interview, stating, "No one is safe." Nevertheless, no cast member has been confirmed as the victim. The show's unpredictability, a hallmark of its 22 seasons, suggests a possible cliffhanger ending.

How to Watch and What's Next

Fans can watch the finale on CBS at 9 p.m. ET or stream it the next day on Paramount+, which hosts all 22 seasons, plus "NCIS: Origins," "NCIS: Hawai'i," "NCIS: Sydney," and "NCIS: New Orleans." Social media buzz is making it clear that fans have mixed feelings of anxiety and excitement. Many have been bracing for an emotional blow and the latest news seem to confirm one is coming.

As "NCIS" nears its Monday premiere, the promised death looms large. Consequently, the episode will answer key questions and reshape the team's future. In other words, viewers should prepare for a finale that could redefine the series' trajectory.