A fresh preview for NCIS Season 23, Part 2 provides an initial glimpse of the intense reunion between Ellie Bishop and Nick Torres. The first segment of the 2025-2026 TV cycle has been quite eventful for CBS’ flagship procedural. Up to now, it has explored a series of engaging storylines interspersed with entertaining specials, including the crossover with NCIS Origins Season 2. At this juncture, it appears that NCIS has no intention of slowing it’s pace anytime soon.
In the winter finale of NCIS Season 23, the series unveiled a major plot twist — Jessica Knight’s initial ELITE target is none other than Bishop. Emily Wickersham made a surprising cameo, marking her return to the show for the first time since her departure in Season 18.
While the prolonged anticipation regarding the next developments in this storyline can be frustrating, fortunately, fresh details about it have now emerged.
Titled Her, the official logline for the eagerly awaited episode indicates that Bishop is actively seeking Torres’ assistance. While not much more is disclosed about their meeting, it highlights that this marks their first encounter since emotional parting in the NCIS Season 18 finale.
The official synopsis – In her inaugural mission with NCIS – Elite, Knight receives directives to track down and apprehend Eleanor Bishop, who has been labeled a wanted cyber-terrorist after her departure from the NCIS team. Seeking a reliable ally, Bishop reaches out to Torres (Wilmer Valderrama), leading to their first encounter since her sudden exit nearly five years prior.
Furthermore, both Emily Wickersham and Wilmer Valderrama share their insights on the reunion of their characters in NCIS Season 23.
They both express genuine excitement about the opportunity to revisit a narrative that appeared to lack closure, particularly considering the circumstances surrounding her departure from the project — a plotline that continues to spark debate.
For an extended period, it seemed unlikely that the procedural would address this issue again, but now, they finally have the chance to do so.
According to Emily Wickersham, “I am thrilled to be back with a beloved family that holds a special place in my heart. I am eager to return as the new Bishop, having ventured out to experience life in a different way. Now, I come back with a little more baggage and added layers of complexity. It was truly enjoyable to be in a well-known setting while navigating fresh dynamics. This episode serves as a heartfelt tribute, and I am excited for everyone to experience it!”
As per Wilmer Valderrama, “Working alongside Emily on set has consistently felt like a fantastic partnership, allowing us to effortlessly craft authentic and thrilling opportunities for our characters. I truly appreciate the chance to rekindle the dynamic energy of this duo. While I won’t spoil anything about this incredible episode, Torres would remark… ‘Bishop, you have some explaining to do.'”
The most intriguing element of Torres’ forward momentum is undoubtedly his reunion with Bishop after five long years. The developing romance between him and Knight adds layers of complexity to this scenario, making it even more captivating.
As confirmed, Emily Wickersham will only be featured in the next NCIS episode. However, her return successfully rekindles her bond with her old team, potentially paving the way for more reunions down the line.