“I made a speech today for our crew. Though in our business, like many, there are quite a few a******s – there is not one on the set of NCIS – in front of or behind the camera.
“Only a profoundly decent group of people who care more about each other and the world in general than what is in it for them. I understand why this show after 18 years is the most-watched in the world – you must all feel our love.
“Keep watching. I have a feeling there will be many more years to come. Thank you to all of my pals at NCIS and to all of our fans. I am truly grateful.”
However, despite what seems like a definitive goodbye, stranger things have happened in the world of NCIS.
NCIS season 18 returns to CBS on March 2.