NCIS Stars Tease Bishop & Torres' Future After Reunion Ending

The on-again, off-again couple may find their way back to each other, but the show's commitment to realism means their reunion isn't guaranteed.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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NCIS stars Emily Wickersham and Wilmer Valderrama discussed the ambiguous ending to the recent reunion between their characters, Ellie Bishop and Nick Torres. While the actors expressed hope that the pair would find their way back to each other, they acknowledged the show's tendency for realistic storytelling may prevent a simple romantic resolution.

Why it matters

Bishop's return in NCIS season 23 was highly anticipated by fans, who have long hoped to see the former partners rekindle their romantic relationship. The stars' comments provide insight into the writers' approach and the potential challenges in fully resolving the Ellick storyline.

The details

In the recent NCIS episode "Her," Bishop returned after being framed for a crime, seeking Torres' help. Despite their clear feelings for each other, the pair ultimately went their separate ways, with Bishop returning to her undercover operation. Wickersham expressed hope that the characters would find their way back, while Valderrama noted the show's commitment to realistic storytelling may prevent a simple romantic resolution, as Torres couldn't just leave his team.

  • NCIS season 23 marked the first time in five years for Ellie Bishop and Nick Torres to come face to face.
  • The midseason finale established Jessica Knight's first ELITE team target as her MCRT predecessor.
  • NCIS season 23, episode 10 ended with Bishop and Torres separating, with Bishop returning to her undercover operation while Torres remained with MCRT.

The players

Ellie Bishop

A former NCIS agent who was forced to go undercover after being framed for a crime she didn't commit.

Nick Torres

An NCIS agent who has a close relationship with Bishop and helped her navigate her predicament.

Emily Wickersham

The actress who portrays Ellie Bishop on NCIS.

Wilmer Valderrama

The actor who portrays Nick Torres on NCIS.

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What they’re saying

“I think the two of them have such a rapport, and they really have, like, a soul connection. But I think there's also such a mutual understanding of what they're doing in this moment in time. Bishop has such a great respect and understanding for where he's at right now in his life. I don't know. It was an interesting moment. Because I thought about it. I was like, 'Is she upset?' I think it's more of a knowing that everything just works out as it will. They found each other, and they'll find each other again.”

— Emily Wickersham, Actress, Ellie Bishop (TVLine)

“One of the credits that I give this show is that they're very logical about these things. And no matter how romantic it could be about giving the audience exactly what they expect and how they wanted to end, what I love about 'NCIS' is that they keep it pretty grounded and pretty realistic. Like, how realistic is it? I'm gonna jump on this plane with you right now and leave my team? I think we get to see that his wheels did turn, and perhaps maybe he did consider it.”

— Wilmer Valderrama, Actor, Nick Torres (TVLine)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.