Wondering why NCIS: Los Angeles ended after 14 successful seasons? Despite strong ratings and a loyal fan base, CBS decided to cancel the long-running crime drama earlier in 2023. The announcement came shortly after a well-received NCIS franchise crossover that drew millions of viewers.
Here’s why CBS ended NCIS: Los Angeles, what led to the decision, and how the cast and crew responded.
Why did NCIS LA get canceled by CBS?
While no exact reason for the cancellation was given at the time, it is considered that CBS canceled NCIS: Los Angeles after 14 seasons due to production costs.
CBS announced the cancellation in January 2023. The decision followed strong viewership for the NCIS franchise crossover featuring NCIS, NCIS: Hawaii, and NCIS: LA.
At the time of cancellation, NCIS: LA was averaging 6.06 million viewers, which was the highest scripted program in its Sunday 10 PM slot, according to Deadline. CBS President Amy Reisenbach stated, “NCIS: Los Angeles has been a stalwart of our lineup with characters who were a joy to watch,” adding, “We are so grateful for the collaboration and remarkable run of these treasured members of our CBS family, and plan to give them the big sendoff they and their fans deserve.” The series finale aired in two parts in May 2023.
The show’s end allowed the team to plan a proper conclusion. Showrunner R. Scott Gemmill said that the timing of the decision gave the creative team the opportunity to deliver a series finale that “is both satisfying and does justice to these beloved characters.” He thanked CBS and praised the cast, crew, and team for their years of dedication.
Lead actor LL Cool J expressed gratitude to fans in a now-deleted Instagram post. LL Cool J wrote, “After 14 seasons, this is the perfect time to end @ncisla on top of our game.”
