NCIS stars are allegedly concerned that spinoffs will hurt main show

NCIS is an institution. It's one of the most recognizable and beloved TV franchises in the world. It just reached 1,000 episodes! That being said, there have been signs of wear. NCIS: Hawai'i was canceled after just three seasons, and NCIS: Los Angeles ended its run before that.

The solution to this wear has been to change up the formula. NCIS has announced plans for a prequel spinoff set in the 1990s, and one focused on iconic characters Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) and Ziva (Cote de Pablo) in the present. Both have built up tons of anticipation with fans. Maybe a little too much anticipation.

An insider claims the spinoffs are stealing attention from NCIS

A TV industry insider told Life & Style that some of the actors on NCIS are worried about the impending spinoffs. The concern, as relayed by this unnamed insider, is that the spinoffs will take away some of the enthusiasm from the flagship series:

"Ratings for the main show have dropped this year, and some of the stars are afraid bringing back Michael in a new format will make their show obsolete."

As implied by the quote, the concern stems from the popularity of the Tony and Ziva characters, in particular. They are two of the most beloved in the entire franchise, and they draw interest beyond the case of the week structure of most NCIS shows. That's where the "obsolete" concern presumably comes into play.

Michael Weatherly is allegedly eager to return without Mark Harmon

The insider also posited that NCIS producers are hoping it will revitalize the franchise, rather than splinter it:

"They were both tremendously popular characters, and producers hope bringing them back in a new exotic setting will revitalize the franchise."

The insider also spoke on Michael Weatherly, and the enthusiasm that he's bringing to the upcoming spinoff. The actor has no issues with the current NCIS cast, but he is allegedly eager to prove that he can find success without the presence of former co-star Mark Harmon.

"Michael doesn’t want people to lose their jobs," the source teased. "But he likes the idea of proving he doesn’t need Mark." As with anonymous claims, these points should be taken with a grain of salt. That said, if they are true, they make it clear that NCIS is entering a crucial period in its history.