Fans of NCIS were surprised by the break-up of Jimmy Palmer and Jessica Knight in season 21, especially since Katrina Law (Knight) is returning in season 22. But this break-up might actually be a really good thing for the show.
The Unexpected Break-Up
The season 21 finale wasn't exactly thrilling. The main case was pretty straightforward, but the personal storylines were way more interesting. We saw the start of Alden Parker's Lily mystery, and Knight got offered a dream job with REACT that involved moving far away. Palmer's overreaction to the long-distance aspect is what pushed Knight to actually accept the job.
A Flimsy Reason To Break Up
Even months later, it's still hard to believe they split just because of the distance! These two had been together for ages. Their relationship seemed pretty solid and their love seemed genuine. They could easily have handled long distance in today's world. It just seemed like a really weak reason to end their story.
The Silver Lining
Despite the weak explanation, the split might actually improve the show. NCIS isn't known for its amazing romances, Knight and Palmer was probably its first actually strong relationship. So breaking them up first creates some amazing suspense for viewers! It is the very first time NCIS is going to handle a break-up storyline in 20 plus years, showing fans what a compelling storyline can actually be like.
A New Narrative For NCIS
Breaking up Palmer and Knight gives NCIS a chance to do something fresh. They’re a long-running show and need to keep their storyline creative to attract fans! Watching how the show deals with them working together after a not-so-great break up is going to be one of the best parts of season 22. It'll also be interesting to see how the rest of the team acts around them.
Will They, Won't They?
Getting Palmer and Knight back together could easily happen now. Knight's return in season 22 sets things up nicely! They can really play on that "forced proximity" trope where romance blooms because the characters can't help but run into each other! And it wouldn’t be unusual either because NCIS has already explored many will-they/won't-they couples before like Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David. The best part? This couple actually still seems to have very strong feelings, suggesting that reuniting these two lovebirds could lead to some interesting outcomes, especially since the storyline for this special team, which features both Palmer and Knight, is set for some surprises!
Only time will tell how long this NCIS will explore their reunion! Unlike other relationships in the show's history, their bond seemed special right away and fans are surely waiting for them to reunite. It looks like a rekindled relationship isn't that far off and many people will find it super exciting to watch and wait!
