‘NCIS’ Rumors: CBS May Have Just Revealed Michael Weatherly’s Replacement With New Cast Announcement

Back in January, it was revealed that Michael Weatherly, who plays Special Agent Tony DiNozzo, would be leaving NCIS after the current season. Many are still wondering how he will be written out and what Leroty Jethro Gibbs and the team will do without him. Well, CBS may have just answered that question as a special guest star has been announced for later this season, and Duane Henry may end up being Weatherly’s replacement.

CBS is reporting that British actor Duane Henry has been cast to appear in the final two episodes of Season 13 of NCIS. His deal apparently does have an option to be a series regular in Season 14 as well, so CBS may be waiting to see how he does and how he is received.

Breaking News: Duane Henry To Guest Star On #NCIS. Meet MI-6 Officer Clayton Reeves: https://t.co/mUpdkzrzmo pic.twitter.com/SkIAxj1AOZ

— NCIS (@NCIS_CBS) April 5, 2016

Duane Henry is going to help out the NCIS team as an MI-6 officer by the name of Clayton Reeves. Not much more is known about his character, but CBS did reveal that he has had to work hard to get where he is in the world. He’s known to have a good sense of humor that goes along with his confidence and swagger.

NCIS Executive Producer Gary Glasberg is happy with the casting choice they have found. He believes that Henry will easily fit into the cast.

“We think we found something really special in Duane Henry. His unique blend of charm, heart, and athletic physicality is going to be a great addition to the mix. Everyone at NCIS is excited to have him join us.”

The character of Clayton Reeves has burned some bridges over time, and the international intelligence community is cautious of him. He’s honest and hard-working in his job, and he’s determined to always do the right things and get them done.

That doesn’t necessarily rub everyone the right way.

CBS was overly complimentary of Michael Weatherly back in January when it was revealed that he would be leaving NCIS. As reported by TV Line, the network was upset that he was departing, but they know the show will continue to do well and they support Weatherly in everything he will ever do.

“After 13 years on NCIS, Michael Weatherly is leaving the show at the end of this season. He is a valued part of the CBS family, and the immense charm and talent he brings to the screen as ‘Very’ Special Agent Tony DiNozzo has helped make NCIS what it is today – the No. 1 drama in the world.”

“We thank Michael for all of his contributions to this successful franchise,” the statement continues, “and look forward to continuing to develop projects with him as part of our ongoing development deal.”

Once Henry debuts as Clayton Reeves on NCIS, it’s going to be CBS looking to see how the fans take to him and how ratings are while he’s on. The thing is, those will be the final episodes for DiNozzo as well so ratings are going to be quite high.

If Clayton Reeves ends up with a head slap or two from one Leroy Jethro Gibbs and takes them in stride, then things may work out.

NCIS has continued to thrive through numerous losses over the years, and with two more seasons already booked, they likely will without Tony DiNozzo. Yes, Michael Weatherly’s departure will be a big loss and maybe Duane Henry won’t end up being his replacement, but Mark Harmon will find a way to keep the showing going and doing well.

[Image via Robert Voets/CBC Broadcasting Inc.]