Why did CBS cancel NCIS: Los Angeles?

CBS’ NCIS franchise has been around since 2003. NCIS: Los Angeles appeared on the scene in 2009. NCIS: New Orleans came five years later in 2014. And new kid on the block NCIS: Hawai’i premiered in 2021. Only one show has sunset so far and that’s the New Orleans branch but the Los Angeles edition of the franchise is about to join its ranks.

The news that NCIS: Los Angeles had been canceled in the middle of its fourteenth season must have come as a shock to fans. After all, the series had come off a successful three way crossover with its flagship show and its sister series. But viewers will have to bid the cast farewell come spring when the finale airs May 14.

Why was the show canceled? According to Deadline, it may have to do with its veteran status on the network. Here’s what we know.

Why was NCIS: Los Angeles canceled by CBS?

The outlet reports high costs could have played a factor in the decision to end NCIS: Los Angeles. The series has been on for nearly 15 years. Yes, it’s a hit show, but it’s also a long-running one with actors, many who are big name draws in lead roles, that have been starring in the series since the beginning. Longevity means higher pay checks and tougher negotiations.

Deadline also notes that this same issue is what’s keeping Blue Bloods in limbo and why S.W.A.T. has yet to be renewed. However, negotiations are said to be going in the right direction even with budget cuts on the table. But don’t be surprised if the decision comes down to the wire and there’s an 11th hour decision made on both of the shows.

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