NCIS Season 23’s Series First Leaves Palmer In A “Blind Spot,” Says Star

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Be warned, this article contains spoilers for NCIS season 23, episode 8, titled “Stolen Moments.” The episode, which is the second-to-last of the season, features a first-time event for the show that unexpectedly impacts a core cast member. CBS has been enjoying a string of successes with its 2025-2026 programming, largely due to the continued popularity of NCIS. After more than 20 years on television, the show has explored many different storylines, but continues to find new ground.

A classic love triangle is a key element, and while NCIS has used romantic tension effectively in the past – think Tony and Ziva, or Bishop and Torres – it wasn’t until season 23 that a full-fledged triangle truly developed. The episode “Stolen Moments” finally confirmed the complicated relationship between Jimmy Palmer, Jessica Knight, and Nick Torres, a connection that had been hinted at throughout the season.

Brian Dietzen discussed the key developments in the recent “Stolen Moments” episode of NCIS during an interview with TVInsider. He co-wrote the episode with longtime NCIS writer Jesse Stern. Dietzen revealed that his character, Palmer, initially didn’t suspect a connection between Knight and Torres, but finally recognized their potential feelings towards each other at the end of the episode. You can find his complete statement below.

Brian Dietzen believes his character wanted to have a conversation, not a dramatic reunion. The episode really highlights the value of time and how it’s only meaningful when spent with others – saving it doesn’t create more quality time. Jimmy is starting to realize he’d like to explore a potential connection with Knight and Torres, something he hadn’t noticed before. He’s been so preoccupied with his work and isolating himself that he missed seeing what might be developing between them. By the end, he understands that living this way isn’t fulfilling and Dietzen hopes to see Jimmy grow as a result.

It seems like he hasn’t realized what was really happening. In this episode, he admits to Nick that he doesn’t understand why their previous relationship ended, and I believe he wouldn’t be saying that if he knew there was more to the story. It’s not that Jimmy is intentionally missing the signs; it’s subtle enough that many viewers might not even notice something is happening beneath the surface. As an actor, even I, Brian, don’t know what’s going to happen next.

Palmer and Knight’s relationship ended in the season 21 finale of NCIS when Knight got her ideal job and had to move to Camp Pendleton. Despite the breakup, it was clear they still cared deeply for each other and likely wouldn’t be apart forever. NCIS has hinted at them getting back together a few times since then, but it kept getting postponed. Now, with Torres entering the picture, a reunion seems much less likely.

Throughout season 23 of NCIS, viewers have seen signs that Knight might be developing feelings for Torres, though his true emotions remain uncertain. This situation is made more complex by his recent relationship with Torres’s sister in season 22. Given Robin’s personality and her already strained relationship with Jess, a romance with Torres could easily cause family drama. This also presents a challenge for the MCRT team, especially considering Palmer’s lingering feelings for his former partner.

It’s still uncertain where NCIS is going with its increasingly complex romantic storyline, but it seems to be a natural progression of the classic will-they-or-won’t-they dynamic, which is promising. However, it’s tough to watch a fan favorite like Palmer go through another painful breakup. Hopefully, CBS can create satisfying and happy endings for all the characters.

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2025-12-10 19:38