‘NCIS’ Fans React to Maria Bello’s Debut as Pauley Perrette Nears Exit

One star entered as another eyes the exit on tonight’s “NCIS,” and some fans weren’t sure whether to celebrate or commiserate.

Tuesday’s installment of the venerable CBS procedural featured the introduction of Special Agent Jacqueline “Jack” Sloane (Maria Bello) joining Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ (Mark Harmon) team.

The new character’s arrival follows the departure of Special Agent Alex Quinn (Jennifer Esposito), who left after Season 14.

Also Read:Can 'NCIS' Survive Without Pauley Perrette?

Weighing heavily on fans’ minds during this week’s episode was the imminent exit for Forensic Specialist Abby Sciuto (Pauley Perrette). The reason for Abby’s departure at the end of this season has not yet been revealed, but the looming bad news has been tough on fans.

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As it turned out, Jack’s debut was received quite well by viewers, with many enjoying the chemistry between the newbie and Gibbs, and opting to focus more on the good news than the bad.

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“I’m super excited to see @maria_bello on #NCIS. I’m hoping to see (more) sparks between her & Gibbs!” one person tweeted.

“I am in serious mourning at the idea of losing @PauleyP, but cheering to have the addition of @Maria_Bello!” wrote another fan.

Check out an assortment of tweets below.

“NCIS” airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on CBS.

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