Contains spoilers for “NCIS” Season 22, Episode 13 — “Bad Blood”
Stealth is definitely a tool NCIS agents often employ in the field, but it’s also one that was used to its fullest extent by the show’s set dressers during “Bad Blood” in a moment plenty of fans likely missed.
The episode’s big subplot revolves around coffee — specifically the coffee Tim McGee’s (Sean Murray) twins are trying to sell. He wants to beat their room’s superdad by selling as much coffee as he can, which means that he’s roping colleagues near and far into his scheme. Kasie Hines (Diona Reasonover) gets really into the competition — at least in part because the coffee has her hyper-caffeinated — and begins offering the coffee to other offices. The big easter egg comes when we spy a white board in her lab filled with names of the other offices and other agents on them. Notable faces like Dwayne Pride (Scott Bakula) from “NCIS: New Orleans,” Kensi Blye and G. Callen (Daniela Ruah and Chris O’Donnell) from “NCIS: LA,” and Jane Tennant (Vanessa Lachey) from “NCIS: Hawai’i,” along with the amount of coffee ordered for each office, decorate the space.
NCIS has been keeping fans hooked for over two decades, and Season 22 is no exception. With thrilling cases, unexpected twists, and nostalgic callbacks, Episode 13 had one particular moment that longtime viewers may have overlooked. This sneaky Easter egg is a nod to the show’s rich history and a treat for die-hard fans. Let’s dive into what you may have missed and why it’s so important!
A Brief Recap of NCIS Season 22, Episode 13
Before we reveal the hidden detail, let’s quickly go over what happened in this episode. Episode 13 brought a high-stakes investigation involving international espionage, a tense standoff, and some emotional character moments. While the main storyline was captivating, the real surprise came in the form of a subtle yet meaningful reference hidden in plain sight.
What Is an Easter Egg in TV Shows?
An Easter egg is a hidden reference, inside joke, or subtle detail that creators sneak into a show for keen-eyed fans to discover. NCIS has a history of dropping these gems, and Episode 13 of Season 22 was no exception.
The Easter Egg: A Nostalgic Throwback
In one particular scene, Special Agent Alden Parker is seen browsing through an old case file. Sharp-eyed fans noticed that the name on the file belonged to a character from an earlier season—someone who played a significant role in Gibbs’ past. This small yet significant detail ties the current storyline back to a pivotal moment in NCIS history.
Who Was Mentioned in the Easter Egg?
The file referenced none other than Special Agent Mike Franks, Gibbs’ longtime mentor and friend. Franks was a recurring character whose influence on Gibbs was undeniable. Though he tragically died in Season 8, his presence continues to shape the NCIS team’s actions.
Why This Easter Egg Matters
- A Tribute to a Beloved Character – Mike Franks was a fan-favorite, and mentioning him in Episode 13 serves as a heartfelt nod to his lasting impact on the team.
- Foreshadowing Future Storylines – Could this reference mean that an old case is about to resurface? The show has done this before, and it often leads to major plot developments.
- Strengthening Continuity – Small details like these reinforce the idea that every season of NCIS is interconnected, making the long-running series feel more cohesive.
Other Easter Eggs in NCIS Season 22
This isn’t the only hidden detail this season. Here are a few more Easter eggs that dedicated fans have spotted:
- Callbacks to Gibbs’ Rules – A subtle reference to Rule #39 was made earlier this season.
- Ducky’s Legacy Lives On – A framed photo of Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard appears in the background of several key scenes.
- Classic Gibbs Coffee Cup – Though Gibbs himself isn’t present, his signature coffee cup was subtly placed on Parker’s desk in an earlier episode.
How NCIS Masters the Art of Nostalgia
NCIS is known for weaving past and present storylines seamlessly. The show understands its audience and rewards loyal viewers with these hidden gems that deepen the connection to the characters and their journeys.
Fan Reactions to the Easter Egg
Once fans spotted the Easter egg, social media lit up with excitement. Many longtime viewers took to Twitter and Reddit to share their theories and appreciation for the show’s attention to detail. Some believe this reference to Mike Franks hints at an upcoming storyline involving an old case resurfacing.
What Could This Mean for Future Episodes?
If history has taught us anything, NCIS rarely includes details without purpose. Could Gibbs make a surprise return? Is Parker about to uncover a case that Franks once worked on? Only time will tell, but this Easter egg definitely sets the stage for something bigger.
How to Spot More Easter Eggs in NCIS
For those who love uncovering hidden details, here are some tips:
- Rewatch old episodes and compare them to new ones.
- Pay attention to background objects – pictures, case files, and even desk items often hold clues.
- Follow fan forums – dedicated fans often spot things others miss.
Conclusion
NCIS Season 22, Episode 13 delivered not just a thrilling case but also a well-placed Easter egg that connects the past and present of the beloved series. The reference to Mike Franks is more than just a nostalgic nod—it could be a sign of major story developments ahead. Keep your eyes peeled for more hidden details in future episodes, because NCIS loves rewarding its most dedicated fans!
