NCIS returns next week with its first episode of 2012, and the first since September's Season 9 premiere to address the mysterious Phantom Eight storyline that almost resulted in Tony's demise.

In "Nature of the Beast," Scott Wolf's Agent Stratton was exposed as a villain with more than one identity and serious, ulterior motives. Wolf is back January 3, as is Sarah Jane Morris.

E.J's (Morris') reappearance may force DiNozzo to confront his past once again, according to CBS, as the investigation into the murder of a Navy Commander leads NCIS to her whereabouts.

How will that play into Stratton's plan to eliminate everyone who saw him gun down an NCIS agent? Is her relationship with Tony now strained beyond repair? We'll find out Tuesday at 8.

Check out the promo for "Housekeeping" and share your thoughts below:

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