A storyline inspired by Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors that highlights the organization’s mission of supporting families who have lost a military loved one will air on the CBS series NCIS on Dec. 16 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
In the episode, “Heaven and Nature,” McGee (Sean Murray) and Torres (Wilmer Valderrama) work to recover a stolen truck filled with toys for the Navy’s annual Christmas drive. Viewers will see TAPS reflected on screen through characters inspired by TAPS families, as well as real photo buttons honoring fallen service members.
“TAPS starts with the families of the fallen,” said Diana Roday Hosford, senior vice president of Sports & Entertainment at TAPS. “For more than 30 years, we’ve created opportunities for those survivors to connect and share on their healing journey together.”
Hosford said the partnership between TAPS and NCIS was both “organic and authentic.” On Veterans Day. NCIS partnered with TAPS. for "#TuesdaysOfHonor," a campaign that honored fallen heroes and Gold Star families.
“To carry on this tradition with CBS, to come to this holiday episode, was just extraordinary,” she said.
Hosford said the opportunity to share the TAPS mission with the NCIS cast and crew, along with the show’s fan base, is a gift.
“It was an incredible opportunity to talk about what we do,” she continued.
Hosford was on set when the episode was filmed, calling it a moment that she will never forget.
“What was so special about the on-set experience was watching the care the actors delivered those wonderfully crafted lines was exceptional to me. It really won my heart,” she said.
TAPS is hosting watch parties for the episode and encouraging its families and followers to get involved.
NCIS stars Murray, Valderrama, Gary Cole and Katrina Law also filmed a special primetime PSA to air following the broadcast. The PSA shines a light on TAPS’ mission and spotlights the resilience, hope, and courage of surviving families. This marks a meaningful holiday moment for the franchise and an opportunity to amplify TAPS’ important work on a national platform.
“The NCIS universe has always been inspired by the real men and women who serve -- and the families who stand behind them,” said NCIS executive producer Steven D. Binder in a statement. “We are honored to collaborate with TAPS this holiday season. Their mission represents the heart and humanity at the core of our show, and we’re grateful for the chance to help share their story with our audience.”
The episode will air on CBS and stream on Paramount+ (live and on demand for Paramount+ Premium plan subscribers, or on demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs).
Click here to see an exclusive clip of the episode.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.