CBS renews ‘NCIS,’ extends Mark Harmon's contract

NCIS isn’t going anywhere. CBS renewed the ratings juggernaut for its 11th season.

The network made the announcement in a press release this afternoon. Even after 10 seasons, NCIS remains one of the network’s most popular shows, typically boasting the largest network viewing audience on Tuesday nights.

After premiering in 2003, the show’s numbers continued to grow. During the 2009-2010 season it became the number-one drama and scripted show on TV, maintaining that position ever since, CBS reported.

“In a world gone niche, NCIS keeps getting bigger, and Mark Harmon continues to define the role of leading man on the #1 show on television,” CBS President Leslie Moonves said. “NCIS is the type of franchise every company wants in today’s global content ecosystem – high-quality storytelling that generates passionate viewers and drives revenue on every conceivable platform.”

Currently, NCIS averages 21.48 million viewers per week and a 4.2 rating among 18-49 year-olds, according to Deadline. In addition, reruns air on USA Network and the show is licensed in over 200 overseas markets.

NCIS is a spin-off from JAG and served as a jumping point for another series, NCIS: Los Angeles.

CBS also confirmed that star Mark Harmon will be returning. He is also credited as an executive producer.

image: CBS