CBS hit show "NCIS" - the most watched TV series in the United States during the 2012-2013 TV season-- has been renewed for a 12th season.
TV Line reported that the police procedural drama's five series regulars, whose contracts will expire this Spring, will return for the upcoming season (as well as season 13). They are Sean Murray, David McCallum, Rocky Carroll, and Michael Weatherly.
The rest of the cast who have other contract cycles were reportedly also booked to return.
One of the biggest questions for the next season is if Cote de Pablo's Ziva will return. The actress shocked viewers after she announced that she will not be continuing her role, leaving in the beginning of the show's 11th season.
A lot of fans will surely be disappointed if Zita leaves. According to a poll on TheRanking.com, 60,000 fans want Ziva back in the show. There is also a online grassroots movement called "BringCoteBack."
Rocky Carroll (Director Leon Vance) said in an interview that the filming for the show's 12th season will resume at the end of July, and will continue until the end of April 2015.
"It takes eight business days to film one episode," he said. "Our normal day runs from 12-14 hours, but it really doesn't feel like work to me because I truly love what I do."
Meanwhile, the stars have used social media to tease viewers. On July 15, Brian Dietzen (Jimmy Palmer) tweeted: "It has begun! First #NCIS table read of the season. Awesomeness. (You'll just have to trust me.... I forgot to take pictures). #NCISisBACK."
Pauley Perrette also expressed her excitement by tweeting: "First day back at work for #NCIS Season 12 today! Lots of happy cast and crew! Lots and Lots of LOVE!"
"NCIS" season 12 is expected to return between September 18 and 29. It airs every Tuesday night at 8pm.
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