The question that echoed through NCIS fandom for seasons: Torres and Bishop finally solidified their romantic relationship in NCIS Season 18, Episode 16, “Rule 91.” This episode marked the culmination of years of will-they-won’t-they tension and signaled a significant shift in the dynamics of the NCIS team.
A Long-Awaited Connection: Breaking Down “Rule 91”
For fans invested in the slow-burn romance between Special Agents Nick Torres (Wilmer Valderrama) and Eleanor “Ellie” Bishop (Emily Wickersham), “Rule 91” was more than just another episode. It was the payoff. The episode revolves around the investigation of a stolen prototype AI weapon and a mysterious break-in at Bishop’s apartment. However, beneath the procedural plot, the true drama unfolded within the burgeoning relationship between Torres and Bishop.
Unveiling Their Feelings
Throughout the episode, subtle glances and lingering touches hinted at the growing connection between them. The shared danger they faced while investigating the case seemed to heighten their emotional awareness. Bishop’s apartment invasion served as a catalyst, forcing both characters to confront their feelings for each other. Torres’s protective instincts kicked into high gear, and Bishop, in turn, acknowledged the deep trust and reliance she had developed on him.
The Defining Moment
The pivotal scene occurs after Bishop confides in Torres about her decision to leave NCIS to work undercover with Odette Malone. Though initially hurt and confused by her sudden departure, Torres ultimately understands and respects her decision. This understanding, coupled with the realization that their time together at NCIS is coming to an end, leads to a shared moment of vulnerability.
The kiss they share isn’t just a fleeting impulse; it’s a culmination of pent-up emotions, mutual respect, and a deep connection that had been building for years. It solidifies their feelings for each other, albeit with the understanding that their paths are about to diverge significantly. While Bishop departs for her undercover mission, the kiss serves as confirmation that their relationship has transitioned from friendship and partnership to something much deeper. The future of that relationship remained uncertain, given Bishop’s new assignment, but the connection was undeniable.
Understanding the Evolution of Torres and Bishop’s Relationship
Before “Rule 91,” the relationship between Torres and Bishop was characterized by a constant push and pull. Their contrasting personalities – Torres’s brooding intensity and Bishop’s quirky intelligence – often led to humorous banter and subtle competition. However, underneath the surface, a strong foundation of trust and admiration was gradually developing.
Early Encounters: Building a Foundation
From the moment Torres joined the team in Season 14, the dynamic between him and Bishop was intriguing. They often butted heads, but their arguments were always laced with a playful energy. They challenged each other intellectually and professionally, fostering a respect that transcended mere colleagues.
Shared Experiences: Forging a Bond
Over time, their shared experiences on dangerous cases strengthened their bond. They relied on each other in high-pressure situations, developing a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. They learned to anticipate each other’s moves and trust each other implicitly, both in the field and in the office.
Hints and Glimpses: Teasing the Romance
The writers strategically planted hints and glimpses of a potential romance throughout their time together. Small acts of kindness, shared glances, and moments of vulnerability hinted at the growing attraction between them. These subtle cues kept fans guessing and fueled speculation about their future.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Torres and Bishop’s Relationship
Here are some frequently asked questions about the relationship between Torres and Bishop, providing further insights into their dynamic and its impact on the show:
FAQ 1: Was there any previous romantic history between Torres and Bishop before “Rule 91”?
No, prior to “Rule 91,” there was no explicit romantic relationship. Their connection was primarily platonic and professional, albeit with noticeable romantic tension. They shared close moments, confided in each other, and displayed clear affection, but it never crossed into a confirmed romantic territory. The romantic undertones grew stronger in the seasons leading up to their eventual connection.
FAQ 2: How did fans react to Torres and Bishop finally getting together?
Fan reactions were mixed. While many viewers were thrilled to see their long-awaited romance finally materialize, others were disappointed by the timing, given Bishop’s imminent departure from the show. Some felt that the relationship was rushed and didn’t receive the proper development it deserved. Overall, the consensus seemed to be that while the kiss was a welcome development, the circumstances surrounding it were bittersweet.
FAQ 3: Why did Bishop leave NCIS?
Bishop left NCIS to embark on an undercover operation for Odette Malone, a mysterious character with connections to Ziva David. Bishop’s decision was motivated by a desire to help exonerate a man wrongly accused of leaking classified information years prior. This opportunity provided Bishop with a chance to prove herself and utilize her unique skill set in a way that she couldn’t within the confines of NCIS.
FAQ 4: Did Bishop’s departure impact Torres significantly?
Yes, Bishop’s departure deeply affected Torres. He was visibly heartbroken and struggled to cope with her absence. He felt betrayed by her decision to leave without fully confiding in him, leading to feelings of confusion and anger. Her departure also forced him to confront his own feelings for her and acknowledge the depth of their connection.
FAQ 5: What happened to Torres after Bishop left?
After Bishop’s departure, Torres grappled with feelings of abandonment and uncertainty. He continued his work at NCIS, but his demeanor was noticeably different. He became more introspective and withdrawn, struggling to reconcile his feelings for Bishop with her absence. The show explored his emotional journey as he navigated the complexities of their relationship.
FAQ 6: Did Torres and Bishop ever reunite after she left NCIS?
The show did not depict a definitive reunion between Torres and Bishop following her departure. While there were hints of continued communication and the possibility of a future reconciliation, their paths remained separate. The ambiguity surrounding their future left fans wondering if they would ever find their way back to each other.
FAQ 7: What made Torres and Bishop’s relationship so appealing to viewers?
Their relationship appealed to viewers because it was a slow-burn romance built on a strong foundation of friendship and respect. Their contrasting personalities created a dynamic filled with humor, tension, and genuine affection. The “will-they-won’t-they” aspect kept fans engaged, and their shared vulnerability made them relatable and endearing.
FAQ 8: Were there any clues or foreshadowing about Torres and Bishop getting together before “Rule 91”?
Yes, there were several instances of foreshadowing. Their frequent banter, shared glances, and moments of physical closeness hinted at a deeper connection. Specific episodes explored their individual vulnerabilities and showcased their growing reliance on each other. These subtle cues prepared viewers for the eventual culmination of their romance.
FAQ 9: Did the actors who played Torres and Bishop have any input on their relationship?
While the actors likely had some input on their characters’ portrayals, the overarching storyline and romantic trajectory were primarily determined by the writers and showrunners. Emily Wickersham and Wilmer Valderrama undoubtedly brought their own interpretations and nuances to their roles, but the narrative arc was ultimately guided by the creative team.
FAQ 10: How did the other NCIS team members react to Torres and Bishop’s relationship?
The other NCIS team members were generally supportive of Torres and Bishop’s relationship, though they often teased them about their feelings. Gibbs, in particular, seemed to recognize the connection between them and offered subtle guidance and support. The team’s acceptance and encouragement contributed to the overall appeal of their romance.
FAQ 11: Is it possible for Torres and Bishop to have a future relationship in the NCIS universe?
While Bishop’s story arc has seemingly concluded, the possibility of a future reunion within the NCIS universe, either through guest appearances or spin-offs, cannot be completely ruled out. Fan interest and the enduring popularity of their relationship could potentially pave the way for future interactions.
FAQ 12: How can fans rewatch the episodes featuring the development of Torres and Bishop’s relationship?
Fans can rewatch NCIS episodes featuring the development of Torres and Bishop’s relationship on streaming platforms such as Paramount+ (where available), DVD sets, or through digital purchase options on platforms like Amazon Prime Video or iTunes. Searching for key episodes like “Rule 91,” or those where they share significant emotional moments will showcase the arc of their relationship.