Fans of NCIS have recently noticed a growing connection between Jessica Knight and Nick Torres. Their chemistry in the field, combined with playful banter, has sparked speculation that the show could be building toward a possible romance.
For a while, that possibility seemed unlikely due to Knight’s relationship with Jimmy Palmer. However, now that the couple has split, many fans are wondering if Torres and Knight could become the show’s next pairing.
Speaking to TVLine, Wilmer Valderrama, who plays Torres, addressed the speculation. He admitted that while the characters clearly share a strong connection, turning that bond into a romance would be a major step.
According to Valderrama, if the show decides to push Torres and Knight into a relationship, it would be a storyline that could significantly change their dynamic. “If we pull that lever, it’s one you can’t really come back from,” he explained, noting that the writers carefully consider such major developments.
The discussion around the pair intensified after the return of Ellie Bishop, played by Emily Wickersham. Her comeback confirmed that Torres and Bishop had previously hooked up before she left the team, and Torres ultimately chose to stay with his NCIS family instead of joining her mission.
With that chapter behind him, Torres could now be open to a new romance—something that has many fans pointing toward Knight.
Still, the situation remains uncertain. Some viewers continue to hope that Knight and Jimmy might reunite, especially after Jimmy appeared uneasy when noticing the growing closeness between Knight and Torres during a recent case.
For now, the idea of a Torres–Knight romance remains speculation. Whether the writers decide to explore it or keep them as strong partners and friends, one thing is clear: their chemistry has become one of the most talked-about dynamics on the show.
New episodes of NCIS season 23 air Tuesdays on CBS.