Emily Wickersham’s Special Agent Eleanor “Ellie” Bishop departed NCIS in Season 18, Episode 16, “Rule 91.” This marked the end of her eight-season run, leaving fans with mixed emotions and numerous questions about the circumstances surrounding her exit.
The End of Bishop’s Journey: “Rule 91”
Detailing the Departure Episode
“Rule 91,” the season finale, presented a shocking twist that saw Bishop implicated in leaking classified NSA documents a decade prior. This alleged act, designed to undermine a notorious international arms dealer, became the central focus of the episode. Initially, the team, particularly Gibbs, seemed conflicted, believing in Bishop’s integrity yet grappling with the apparent evidence.
However, the episode unveiled a more intricate plot. It was revealed that Bishop was not a traitor but was undertaking a highly dangerous undercover operation. This operation required her to be seemingly disgraced, thereby gaining access to a black ops organization. This decision, Bishop explained, stemmed from her desire to make a real difference in the world, even if it meant sacrificing her reputation and career at NCIS.
The Impact on the Team
Bishop’s departure had a profound impact on the NCIS team, particularly on Torres, with whom she had developed a significant romantic connection. While her decision was presented as a sacrifice for the greater good, Torres felt betrayed and deeply hurt by her deception. The episode ended with Bishop embarking on her dangerous mission, leaving Torres and the team grappling with her absence and the uncertainty of her future. The bittersweet nature of her exit resonated deeply with viewers, sparking discussions and theories about potential future appearances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bishop’s Departure
Why Did Emily Wickersham Leave NCIS?
Emily Wickersham herself has never explicitly stated a singular reason for her departure from NCIS. However, interviews suggest a combination of factors. After eight seasons, it’s common for actors to seek new opportunities and challenges. Furthermore, storylines sometimes naturally conclude, and the writers may have felt Bishop’s arc had reached a satisfactory resolution with her undertaking a significant undercover assignment. Wickersham also announced her pregnancy shortly after the finale aired, suggesting a potential desire to focus on her family.
Was Bishop Fired from NCIS?
No, Bishop was not officially fired from NCIS. While the initial narrative suggested she was being investigated for leaking classified information, the truth was she orchestrated her seemingly disgraced exit to facilitate her undercover mission. The perception of being fired was a crucial element of her plan, designed to make her appear untrustworthy and therefore more appealing to the organization she was targeting.
Did Bishop and Torres Ever Get Together?
Bishop and Torres shared a complex and nuanced romantic tension throughout their time working together. The “Rule 91” episode intensified their relationship, culminating in a heartfelt conversation before Bishop left. While their feelings were undeniable, Bishop’s sudden departure left their relationship unresolved. The future of their potential romance remains ambiguous, contingent on hypothetical future appearances.
Will Bishop Ever Return to NCIS?
While there are no confirmed plans for Emily Wickersham to reprise her role as Ellie Bishop, the nature of her departure leaves the door open for a potential return. Her undercover mission provides a narrative justification for her absence, and the unresolved storyline with Torres could be revisited in future seasons. The possibility hinges on Wickersham’s availability, the writers’ intentions, and the overall direction of the show.
What Happened to Bishop After Leaving NCIS?
The final scene of “Rule 91” shows Bishop arriving in an undisclosed location in support of her new assignment. The episode provides no further details about the specifics of her mission or her ultimate fate. Her post-NCIS activities remain shrouded in mystery, further fueling speculation and fan theories.
What Was the Meaning of “Rule 91”?
“Rule 91,” as explained by Gibbs, is “When you decide to walk away, don’t look back.” This rule served as a metaphor for Bishop’s decision to leave NCIS and embark on her dangerous mission. It represented the finality of her choice and the necessity of focusing on the present and future, rather than dwelling on the past. The rule also hinted at the emotional challenges she would face as she severed ties with her former life.
What Was the Classified Information Bishop Leaked?
The specific details of the classified information Bishop supposedly leaked were never fully revealed. The narrative focused on the fact that the leaked documents compromised an international arms dealer, suggesting that the information pertained to his operations and networks. The lack of specificity served to maintain the ambiguity surrounding Bishop’s initial actions and to keep the focus on the broader implications of her alleged betrayal.
How Did Gibbs React to Bishop’s Departure?
Gibbs, having served as a mentor figure to Bishop, was initially deeply affected by her alleged betrayal. He struggled to reconcile his belief in her character with the apparent evidence against her. However, upon learning the truth about her undercover mission, he understood her motivations and supported her decision, albeit with a palpable sense of concern for her safety. Gibbs’s reaction highlighted his strong bond with Bishop and his unwavering commitment to justice.
What Season Did Emily Wickersham Join NCIS?
Emily Wickersham joined NCIS in Season 11, Episode 9, “Gut Check,” replacing Ziva David (Cote de Pablo) as a permanent member of the team. Her character, Ellie Bishop, brought a fresh perspective and unique analytical skills to the team, quickly becoming a fan favorite.
Was Bishop’s Departure Planned from the Beginning?
It is highly unlikely that Bishop’s departure was planned from the beginning of her tenure on NCIS. Television storylines often evolve over time, influenced by various factors, including actor availability, audience reception, and creative direction. The specific circumstances of Bishop’s exit suggest that it was a decision made relatively closer to the end of Season 18.
How Did Fans React to Bishop Leaving NCIS?
Fan reactions to Bishop’s departure were mixed. Some viewers were supportive of her character’s evolution and found her undercover mission to be a compelling storyline. Others were disappointed by the abruptness of her exit and felt that her relationship with Torres was left unresolved. Many fans expressed sadness at seeing Wickersham leave the show and voiced hope for a future return.
What Does Bishop’s Departure Mean for the Future of NCIS?
Bishop’s departure created a void within the NCIS team, both personally and professionally. Her absence necessitated the introduction of new characters and storylines to fill the gap. The show has since explored the ramifications of her departure on Torres and the remaining team members, while also introducing new dynamics and challenges. Whether her departure proves to be a permanent absence or a temporary hiatus remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly shaped the narrative direction of NCIS.