Several major characters exited NCIS in Season 18 — but one loss hit especially hard. Breena Palmer, played by Michelle Pierce, was written off the show in a heartbreaking way, leaving Jimmy Palmer (Brian Dietzen) devastated.
While co-star Emily Wickersham (Agent Ellie Bishop) chose to leave the series on her own terms — later announcing her pregnancy on social media — Pierce’s departure was part of a much bigger creative decision.
The Real Reason Breena Left
During Season 17, viewers saw tension growing between Jimmy and Breena, largely because his demanding job kept pulling him away from home. But their marital strain wasn’t what ended her story.
Instead, the show made a bold and emotional choice.
With the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, producers decided to reflect real-world events within the series. That’s when it was revealed that Breena had died due to complications from COVID-19 — a quiet but devastating twist that deeply impacted the team.
Season 18 unfolded through shifting timelines, gradually revealing the emotional weight of her loss. Jimmy’s subtle reactions — including distributing cleaning supplies and struggling even to say “COVID-19” — underscored the grief beneath the surface.
Dietzen later shared that producers informed him in advance, explaining they wanted the pandemic to profoundly affect the team — but without losing a core NCIS agent. Though prepared professionally, he admitted the storyline was emotionally difficult.
—
Could Tony DiNozzo Return?
Season 18 brought heartbreak — but fans are still holding out hope for a comeback.
Michael Weatherly, who played Special Agent Anthony DiNozzo, sparked speculation after posting a nostalgic throwback photo from his NCIS days. He famously left after Season 13, when it was revealed that Ziva David was alive — and that the two shared a daughter.
Since then, viewers have been waiting for Tony’s long-rumored return.
There’s no official confirmation yet. But if there’s one thing NCIS has proven over the years, it’s this: you should never say never.