NCIS fans have been on quite an emotional rollercoaster since Katrina Law’s Jessica Knight and Brian Dietzen’s Jimmy Palmer ended things. Now, everyone is only talking about whether they will find their way back to each other. Or is this ship officially sunk?
For now, the answer is a heart-wrenching “no.” In NCIS Season 22, Episode 4, they tackle their feelings head-on. Even though they admit to still loving each other, they agree to stay apart. They prioritize personal growth over romance.
It’s a bittersweet moment that has left fans both frustrated and hopeful. Frustrated because their chemistry is undeniable, and hopeful because the door doesn’t seem entirely shut. Let’s explore a bit more.
Disclaimer: The article contains major spoilers for NCIS Season 22. It also reflects the author's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.
Why did Knight and Palmer from NCIS break up?
This couple had created a refreshing love story in NCIS. But, things changed in the season 21 finale. They faced a tough choice.
Knight was offered a big promotion as Chief REACT Training Officer. This would need her to relocate to California’s Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. So, the couple decided to end things rather than deal with the strain of long-distance.
There were fundamental differences between Knight’s drive to take on new challenges and Palmer’s desire for stability. And, this is what led to their amicable split.
In a touching moment, Knight returns to the Navy Yard in season 22. Yet, the former flames avoid discussing their relationship, leaving fans in suspense.
Love still lingers in NCIS Season 22, Episode 4
In episode 4, titled Sticks & Stones, we finally see Knight and Palmer confront their unresolved feelings.
The episode takes a thrilling twist. The Major Case Response Team scrambles to prevent an international disaster. The rest of the team races to headquarters. And Jess is off camping, unaware of the chaos, until Jimmy shows up to get her.
During this mission, they are stuck together in her RV. And they finally have “the talk.”
With no more distractions, they open up about their lingering love for one another. Knight confesses her love and Palmer responds in kind. But, instead of a romantic reunion, they reach a mutual decision.
They decide to stay broken up and focus on themselves. Knight’s recent solo camping trip hints at her need for self-discovery. Meanwhile, Palmer is stepping into the dating world with “Mate Quest", an app he’s trying out with a little help from his friends.
NCIS Season 22: Why Knight and Palmer choose to stay apart?
Despite their love, both Knight and Palmer understand that they can’t give each other what they need right now.
Jimmy makes it clear, telling Jess she deserves an “Indiana Jones” type who’s willing to follow her on her career adventures. And Jess assures Jimmy he deserves someone who can give him a stable life.
It’s mature, it’s realistic, and, well, to be honest, it’s also a little heartbreaking. As Katrina Law, who plays Knight, shares in an interview with TVInsider,
“...I don’t think there was a door slamming. I think it was just gently closed for the moment.”
Also read - NCIS season 21 complete recaps: Everything you should know before season 22 arrives
Is there hope for a future reunion?
While their decision to stay separated might seem final, it’s far from it. Brian Dietzen (Palmer) hinted at the open-ended nature of their conversation, explaining to TVInsider:
“Steve… is just a damn good writer and he’s also very smart about storytelling, and let’s leave some doors open on what may happen, but also what may not and see how it grows from there and how these two can continue to have a lot of great scenes together and see where their relationship grows from here because they’re going to be seeing each other every day at work.”
So, those lingering feelings and occasional “little hotness,” as Law likes to describe it, will likely lead to moments that keep fans guessing.
Knight might feel torn between her career goals and the desire for a home base. Palmer could come to realize that his ideal of stability might change. Could they grow independently, only to find each other again once the time is right?
As Dietzen shares with TVInsider:
“I think that it kind of comes back to that saying, if you love something, let it go. And then if it’s meant to be, it’ll come back. So I think they’re putting that ideology to the test.”
So, while Knight and Palmer might not be getting back together right now, the possibility remains alive and well. For now, the love story of Knight and Palmer is on pause, but by no means over.
Also read - Why did Kate Todd leave NCIS after only two Seasons? Reasons behind exit, explained
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