NCIS Season 22: Melina Kanakaredes Joins Midseason Premiere as Parker's Mysterious Baker

Two-time Golden Globe-nominated NCIS will welcome the acclaimed actress Melina Kanakaredes (The Resident) in its third #1 2025 midseason premiere in 2023. The episode, “Baker’s Man,” will be the show’s first back on Monday, Jan. 27, at 9 p.m. ET, with a storyline that promises to add intrigue to Special Agent Alden Parker's (Gary Cole) personal world.

Kanakaredes steps into the role of Parker's favorite baker, a character whose seemingly innocent profession may harbor darker undertones. Executive Producer Steven D. Binder revealed exclusively to TV Insider that the character might not be exactly who she appears to be, teasing potential complications in what initially seems like a straightforward blackmail case.

"Parker, I think, has a little crush on his baker," Binder shared, adding an interesting dynamic to the traditionally reserved agent's character development. "She might not be a good guy," he cryptically added, suggesting deeper layers to the storyline.

The episode, directed by series regular Rocky Carroll (NCIS Director Leon Vance), will also explore mounting tensions within the team as Torres' (Wilmer Valderrama) secret romance comes to light, weaving personal and professional storylines together.

While initially planned as a one-off appearance, Binder expressed enthusiasm about potential future appearances for Kanakaredes. "She was so great that we have a board of people who, let's see if we can bring this person back," he explained, suggesting fans might see more of Parker's mysterious baker in future episodes.