Who Was Shot in 'NCIS' Cliffhanger? 4 Theories for Season 24 - southernminn.com
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NCIS's season finale cliffhanger is a masterclass in narrative suspense theory — using ambiguity and audience speculation to maximize viewer retention until Season 24.
Zeigarnik EffectNarrative Suspense TheoryAudience Engagement TheoryCliffhanger Effect
Theory Briefing
- The NCIS Season 23 finale ended with a shocking shooting cliffhanger involving characters Torres and Mateo, leaving the victim's identity unresolved.
- Four competing fan theories about who was shot illustrate how strategic narrative ambiguity drives audience engagement and return viewership.
- The cliffhanger format deliberately withholds resolution until Season 24 in Fall 2026, exploiting the Zeigarnik Effect — people remember unfinished stories better.