The NCIS franchise posted a 39 percent audience boost on CBS's Tuesday premiere night, the article reports.

The multi-show return drew millions as network TV fights streaming for live viewers.

Fan-favorite characters made dramatic comebacks during the premiere night block.

Michael Weatherly's Tony DiNozzo returned in the Season 24 premiere.

Mark Harmon's presence around Origins also fueled strong premiere-night interest.

Showrunners are teasing how long Tony will stay in the current arc.

Network executives see the lift as proof the franchise still drives advertising value.

Later episodes will test whether the elevated numbers can hold.

Read the full article for more details on the NCIS premiere surge.