Why did Muse Watson leave NCIS? Exit explained 

NCIS fans have enjoyed over two decades of thrilling stories and beloved characters, but no one can deny the emotional toll of certain character exits. Among the most heartbreaking was the death of Mike Franks, played by Muse Watson. Franks was not just a character, he was the wise mentor to Gibbs, and his death left a void that fans still feel today.

Franks’ death in Season 8 wasn’t just a surprise to fans, it was a difficult decision for the writers. Jesse Stern, a former NCIS writer, revealed during the podcast Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch that he was initially reluctant to pen the character’s exit. He recalled his reaction when showrunner Gary Glasberg told him Franks had to be killed off in the episode “Pyramid.”

“Are you kidding? We’re bringing the guy back just to kill him,”

Stern remembered saying. Despite his hesitation, Glasberg insisted that Franks’ story had reached its natural conclusion.

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How Mike Franks died

In Season 8, viewers learned that Mike Franks had been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. However, it wasn’t the illness that claimed his life. Instead, Franks met his end at the hands of Jonas Cobb, a serial killer targeting former Navy personnel.

During a confrontation with Cobb, Franks sacrificed himself to save Gibbs, proving once again the depth of their bond. This selfless act underscored Franks’ role as a protector, even in his final moments.

On-screen, Franks’ death deeply affected the NCIS team, especially Gibbs. His mentor’s loss was a reminder of the personal sacrifices made in their line of work. Off-screen, fans were devastated. Franks had been a fan-favorite character, and his departure marked the end of an era.

Muse Watson’s exit was part of the show’s creative decision-making process. Killing off Franks added emotional weight to the series and reinforced the dangers faced by the team. Watson himself embraced the role wholeheartedly, making Franks’ death even more impactful.

Though his character died, Watson later returned for flashback scenes, keeping Franks’ presence alive in the series.

Even after his death, Mike Franks’ influence remained a cornerstone of NCIS. His lessons and advice often echoed in Gibbs’ decisions, proving that a mentor’s impact never truly fades. Key moments from Franks’ life, including his unwavering loyalty and courage, continue to inspire fans.

Mike Franks wasn’t just a character on NCIS, he was a symbol of loyalty, bravery, and mentorship. His death in Season 8 was a turning point for the show, leaving a lasting impression on fans and the NCIS team alike. While his departure was heartbreaking, his legacy remains an integral part of the series.

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