The TV series NCIS has a history of drawing inspiration from actual events for its compelling storylines. From its very first episode, “Yankee White,” which explored the mysterious death of a Navy Commander on Air Force One, the show set the stage for incorporating real-life incidents into its narratives.
Season 3’s “Mind Games” included elements inspired by notorious serial killers Ted Bundy and Henry Lee Lucas, creating a chilling atmosphere. The spin-off “NCIS: New Orleans” also drew from real-life experiences, following the adventures of veteran agent Dwayne Swer.
In Season 6 of “NCIS: New Orleans,” the episode “Convicted” delved into the psychology of cult leaders, akin to Jim Jones, based on thorough research and factual accounts.
Another episode, “Double Back,” took inspiration from survivors of the Boston Marathon bombing, depicting a character, Delilah Fielding, learning to cope with paralysis. The show aimed to convey the message of resilience and empowerment, similar to real-life survivors who rebuilt their lives.
NCIS continues to use real events to create engaging and thought-provoking storylines that captivate audiences while shedding light on the complexities of real crimes.