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CBS’ flagship drama series “NCIS” will be back in 2018-19, as will star and executive producer Mark Harmon



Harmon has signed a new contract to remain with the show, and with that, the series has been picked up for a 16th season. It’s the sixth CBS show (joining “The Big Bang Theory,” “Young Sheldon,” “Mom,” “Seal TEAM” and “SWAT”) to earn a place in the network’s lineup for 2018-19.

Although its ratings are down this season (as are those of most network shows), “NCIS” remains the No. 1 drama on CBS in both adults 18-49 and total viewers. It’s averaging a 1.4 rating in the 18-49 demographic and 13.12 million viewers the night it airs (down 17 percent and 10 percent vs. last season). It improves to 2.2 and 17.22 million with a week of delayed viewing.

The show is also a big moneymaker for CBS TV Studios in syndication and internationally. “NCIS” is currently the second longest-running primetime drama on TV, behind NBC’s “Law & Order: SVU.”

“It’s pretty simple — viewers everywhere love ‘NCIS,'” CBS Entertainment president Kelly Kahl says in a statement. “… ‘NCIS’’ amazing characters and terrific storytelling result in some of TV’s most passionate fans. Of course, none of this would be possible without an outstanding production team, and talented cast led by the incomparable and absolutely tireless Mark Harmon. We’re thrilled he is returning as the centerpiece of the show.”

There’s no word yet on the status of the two “NCIS” spinoffs, “NCIS: Los Angeles” and “NCIS: New Orleans,” though both are probably on the safe side of the renewal fence.