NCIS boss Steven D. Binder confirms that the Season 23 finale's cliffhanger involves a shooting, and someone was indeed hit. Binder discusses the intricate plot twists and character dynamics, offering insights into the show's future direction. He reveals that the shooting is not a random event but a carefully crafted narrative element, with the identity of the shooter and the victim still shrouded in mystery. Binder teases McGee's complex reaction to the situation, highlighting the emotional turmoil he'll face as a law enforcement officer caught between loyalty and duty. The showrunner also addresses the return of Rocky Carroll's character, Director Vance, and the ongoing presence of LaRoche, who has designs on the director's chair. Binder explains the show's approach to character dynamics, particularly the relationship between Knight and Palmer, and the potential for shocking developments. He hints at the possibility of crossovers with the expanding NCIS universe, but practical considerations and the show's storytelling priorities take precedence. Binder concludes by emphasizing the importance of letting the stories dictate the narrative, avoiding grand upfront decisions, and focusing on the week-to-week mysteries that have become a hallmark of the series.
