'NCIS' Season 17 Episode 18 delayed as CBS procedural cuts season short amid coronavirus pandemic

Once again, much to fandom's disappointment, veteran CBS procedural 'NCIS' Season 17 is taking another week off before its 18th episode airs. The episode was supposed to air on Tuesday, March 17, at its usual 8 pm time, but has now been postponed to the same day and time, next week, airing on March 22.

This week, the network will air the repeat telecast of this season's episode 'Into the Light' once again, reuniting us with our favorite team member Ziva David. To make things worse, in the wake of the devastating Coronavirus outbreak, NCIS bosses have also announced that production is being cut short for this season.

As is the case with many TV series and ongoing productions, 'NCIS' will now have a total of 20 episodes this season, as opposed to the regular 24. And considering episode 18 will air next week, expect the ongoing Season 17 to wrap up by the first week of April, that is assuming the network doesn't decide to go off air again. 

The news was shared on Twitter by cast member Brian Dietzen, who wrote: "Unfortunately we'll be shutting down production of NCIS for the remainder of the season after we wrap tomorrow. We'll produce 20 of our 24 episode order. It's been a tremendous year and we have a few more great episodes for you all. Thank you so much for all the support."

Actor Sean Murray, who plays the role of Timothy McGee, also tweeted: "As many of you have already heard, #NCIS production has been put on hold for the time being. we will wrap our current season with 20 eps complete and plan to pick up where we left off when we begin season 18. stay safe... we'll see you soon."

The news is rather unfortunate for the entire fandom considering both its spin-offs 'NCIS: Los Angeles' and 'NCIS: New Orleans' are suffering the same fate, as are most other CBS shows.

Even the long-running NBC procedural franchise 'Chicago' has decided to cut production, and end their ongoing seasons at 20 episodes each, opposed to the scheduled 24. 

Sad as the news might be, we also have you covered on what to expect next week when 'NCIS' Season 17 finally airs Episode 18. As has been teased by the official synopsis, the episode titled 'Schooled' will entail "The body of a well-regarded Navy technician found floating in a lake, which isn't far from where a popular community event takes place."

And on the not so gritty side of things, Agent Jack Sloane's daughter Faith also makes a surprise visit after quite a long time, and she arrives with a rather unexpected request.