Michael Weatherly, Max Osinski, Cote de Pablo looking straight ahead in NCIS Tony and Ziva

NCIS: Tony & Ziva is part of a quiet but successful network TV trend that only seems to be growing. The NCIS spinoff has been a hit so far, combining classic NCIS characters with a new format that follows more like a drama than a procedural. However, that’s not the only thing that’s working for the Tony & Ziva spinoff.

NCIS: Tony & Ziva is also the first NCIS series to air directly to streaming. Rather than air on CBS and then be available to watch on demand on Paramount+ like the other NCIS spinoffs, NCIS: Tony & Ziva is only available on Paramount+. This may not be a unique decision, but it is part of a growing trend.

Streaming Is Growing

Claudette looking worried in a doorway in NCIS: Tony & ZivaCredit: Image via Paramount+

Streaming and streaming shows as a whole are growing. The TV landscape used to be dominated exclusively by cable, with network giants competing for airtime and ratings. Now, streaming is the bigger concern. Networks see and recognize this, which explains why CBS made NCIS: Tony & Ziva a streaming show even though NCIS was a typical network franchise.

A network deciding to test out streaming is not a new decision, and CBS is most definitely not the first one to make the switch. However, their interest in making NCIS: Tony & Ziva a streaming show points towards the streaming format’s success. CBS wanted to join the trend. So far, the decision seems to be working out for them.

NCIS: Tony & Ziva’s Streaming Platform Gives It A Unique Boost

Ziva (Cote de Pablo) and Tony (Michael Weatherly) smile at one another in NCIS: Tony & Ziva Episode 4 Credit: Image via Paramount+

While typical network shows like NCIS have relied on cable users to watch their shows, NCIS: Tony & Ziva have the ability to reach users outside of network TV’s target market. This opens up a whole new audience to the show. The new reach, in combination with the characters’ major history, sets the show up for success from the beginning.

Streaming’s continuous growth also gives NCIS: Tony & Ziva a unique boost compared to some of NCIS‘ other spinoffs. For one thing, streaming’s growth means there is a potential for NCIS: Tony & Ziva to receive more viewers. Many of these viewers are probably watching an NCIS spinoff for the first time.

NCIS: Tony & Ziva‘s streaming platform also helps with its format. The show runs like a drama, which fits better with on-demand watching than procedural episodes that are typical for network television. When NCIS: Tony & Ziva season 1 ends, it will be easier than ever to watch the season all the way through, which could again attract more viewers.