What happened to Jimmy's wife on NCIS? Explained

NCIS (Image via Instagram/@ncisverse)
NCIS (Image via Instagram/@ncisverse)

NCIS, a prominent American television series, started in 2003. It follows a squad of special agents from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as they investigate offenses against the Navy and Marine Corps. The show blends aspects of military drama, police procedural, and humor, resulting in a unique and fascinating viewing experience.

On NCIS, Brian Dietzen portrays Dr. Jimmy Palmer. He is a physician renowned for his levity and humor. In his role as the forensic pathologist, he frequently injects humor into somber scenes. Jimmy is a fan favorite because of his optimism and commitment. This is particularly because of his close relationships with his colleagues.

However, his character had a prolonged time of loss due to a devastating event in season 18, which raised concerns about his family life. His wife, Breena, passed away due to complications related to COVID-19. This change gave Jimmy more depth and demonstrated his fortitude amid trying circumstances.


What really happened to Jimmy’s wife on

NCIS?

The COVID-19 pandemic was a major plot point in season 18 of the series. The staff faced quarantine-related concerns, such as homeschooling and new work procedures, in episode 7, "The First Day."

The news that his wife, Breena played by Michelle Pierce, had passed away due to COVID-19 problems brought the situation home to Jimmy Palmer. Jimmy's character underwent a dramatic transformation with this plot point. He tried to maintain his typically upbeat demeanor, which betrayed his anguish.

His loss upset him so profoundly that other team members could see it. Jimmy talked candidly about his suffering, stating that hospital regulations prevented him from being with Breena in her final moments.

The crew eventually arranged a memorial for her, giving Jimmy the opportunity to celebrate her memory in a moving sequence that underscored the pandemic's impact on everyday life. Brian Dietzen, who plays Jimmy, was briefed of the scenario ahead of time.

The makers want to confront the realities of the epidemic while remaining focused on the primary characters. This incident lent complexity to Jimmy's character, challenging his status as the team's "eternal optimist," which appealed to spectators.

Jimmy gave her character a more heartfelt departure in season 19, episode 10, by imagining a beautiful reunion with Breena in the midst of a catastrophe. Jimmy also eventually rekindled love with agent Jessica Knight after his loss gave him hope for the future.


Additional details about NCIS

The franchise has created multiple spin-offs like NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, and NCIS: Hawai'i. With this, NCIS has grown into a lucrative franchise. Its blend of character development, emotional depth, and crime-solving has been enthralling viewers for decades now.

The series has assembled a sizable cast from its beginning. Its season 22 features a diverse cast that includes both established and newer actors. Gary Cole as Alden Parker, the team's leader, Sean Murray as Timothy "Tim" McGee, known for his analytical skills, Brian Dietzen as Dr. Jimmy Palmer, the medical examiner, while Katrina Law joined the cast as Jessica Knight, bringing a new perspective to the team.

Some other members include Wilmer Valderrama as Nicholas "Nick" Torres, contributing to the group's dynamics, Diona Reasonover as Kasie Hines, and Roscoe "Rocky" Carroll as Leon Vance, completing the ensemble. Together, the characters investigate cases linked to the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.


Interested viewers can watch the next episodes of the series on CBS.

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Edited by Sezal Srivastava
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