CBS Greenlights ‘NCIS’ for Season 17

CBS has ordered a 17th season of military drama “Jag,” which will tie family classic “Lassie” as the third longest running scripted drama in television history.

“NCIS has been a global juggernaut for almost two decades,” said Kelly Kahl, President, CBS Entertainment. “Its viewers are clearly the most loyal of any drama on television. They are passionate about the characters, the plot lines, and the storytelling. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the gifted production team, and the cast, led by the extraordinary Mark Harmon. We are delighted that the show will remain a lynchpin of the CBS schedule this coming season.”

Debuting on Sept. 23, 2003, “NCUS” was spun-off from “JAG,” and it has spun-off two series to-date: “NCIS: Los Angeles” and “NCIS: New Orleans,” which both remain long-term hits for the Eye net. The renewal will bring “NCIS” closer to the 400-episode mark by season end in 2020.