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Michael Weatherly stepping into the director’s chair forNCISsounded like a dream come true… until it wasn’t. Sure, he got to helm a thrilling car chase with Gibbs taking down a bad guy, but the episode also introducedonecharacter fans absolutely could not stand.
We’re talking about the kind of side character that makes you scream at your screen in frustration. No, it wasn’t Tony DiNozzo’s charm that flopped — it wasthisnew addition that had fans wishing they could rewrite the script.
Michael Weatherly’sNCISdirectorial debut brought action, drama, and a fan-favorite flop
Michael Weatherlystepped behind thecamera for the first timewithNCISSeason 8, Episode 17,One Last Score,and fans still haven’t forgiven him for one particular casting choice.
While directing an action-packed episode full of heists, car chases, and even a prison visit, Weatherly also introduced Special Agent Erica Jane “E.J.” Barrett, played by Sarah Jane Morris.
Michael Weatherly Asked a “Couple of Key Questions” to Dr. Phil After Leaving NCIS for Another CBS Series
She quickly becameTony DiNozzo’s love interest, but fans weren’t feeling the chemistry. Barrett’s arrival sidelined the beloved Ziva David, and audiences were not on board. She said (viaEW),
I was really thrilled ’cause I got to direct a car chase where Gibbs [Mark Harmon] catches a bad guy… or does he?
Redditors still rank her among the most dislikedNCIScharacters, calling her “whiny” and “arrogant.” Some even blamed her for getting her own team killed.
The backlash was so strong that even Morris once admitted she didn’t understand why E.J. was so distrusted — something that, ironically, mirrored Gibbs’ own skepticism of her character.
Beyond Barrett’s divisive debut, Weatherly made his directorial mark with high-energy sequences, including a car chase he proudly storyboarded himself. He even slipped in aBullitt-style homage with some sleek rearview mirror shots.
“That’s the hardest one to crack”: Michael Weatherly Revealed the Target Audience Even the Mighty NCIS Has a Hard Time Wooing
One prison scene featured a wall mural that read,“She who plants weeds cannot expect to pick flowers”— a detail that cracked Weatherly up so much he made sure it stayed in the episode.
Despite the Barrett controversy, Weatherly loved the experience and joked about directing again. But if he does, fans will probably have one request:no more E.J. Barretts, please.
WhyNCISfans still can’t stand E.J. Barrett’s character
Sarah Jane Morris’NCISrundidn’t win manyhearts. Fans still drag Special Agent Erica Jane “E.J.” Barrett years after her Season 8 debut.
Her biggest crime was replacingZiva David as Tony DiNozzo’s love interest. Some fans never forgave her for stepping into that role. One Redditor admitted,
It wasn’t just romance. Barrett’s leadership cost her team their lives, making her even harder to like. One fan summed it up:
Morris once asked why “no one trusts E.J.” Fans had their reasons. From clashing with Gibbs to her ill-fated romance, E.J. leftNCISwith a legacy of complaints.
WatchNCISon Hulu & Apple TV.
Heena Singh
Editor | Former Senior Writer
Articles Published :1457
Heena Singh is a Editor at FandomWire, spent the last two years making waves in entertainment journalism. With a knack for digging up blockbuster celebrity scoops and an uncanny nose for the latest buzz, Heena’s articles bring a fresh and fun perspective to life. When she’s not conquering writing challenges, you’ll find her curled up in bed, peacefully sleeping.
