The NCIS legacy will never die, as another spin-off is on the way, but this one will go back in time to cover the origins of its most popular character. NCIS: Origins follows a younger version of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by Austin Stowell, during the early days of his NCIS career as a special agent in 1991. Longtime fans will be happy to hear that Mark Harmon, who led the original series for many years as Gibbs but left in Season 19, will be returning in NCIS: Origins.
According to Deadline, Mark Harmon is now set to reprise his iconic role of Leroy Jethro Gibbs in a brief appearance during the premiere episode. It was previously reported Harmon would lend his voice as the show’s narrator, a popular trope for prequel shows. However, he’s now confirmed to return on-screen, presumably before the upcoming series shifts back into the past to tell his origin story. Co-showrunner David J. North revealed to the press that the decision for his return came after a discussion between Harmon, producer Gin Monreal, and himself. Although Origins is focused on the 1991 version of the character, North does not rule out Harmon appearing again at some point, saying “we are open to anything.”
“That was a discussion between Mark, myself and Gina Monreal. I hope the audience will be excited to see him after so many years.”
NCIS: Origins Explores New Territory
As NCIS continues to air on CBS after premiering over 20 years ago, Origins is set to explore a new part of the franchise’s timeline. Taking place in 1991, Leroy Jethro Gibbs will not be the wise and experienced veteran fans are familiar with, but a new member of NCIS on an emotional journey after the murder of his family. Amy, the President of CBS Entertainment, discussed expanding the NCIS universe and introducing Origins to the fold, teasing an “edgier and grittier” series than previous ones.
“I think it’s been wonderful to have these franchise extensions. They’re each its own unique property. NCIS: Origins is really different than any of the other NCIS‘ [shows]; it makes me feel so old to say it’s period when it’s set in the ’90s. Kill me now, right? It’s a little edgier and grittier than previous NCIS‘ [series].”
The cast of NCIS: Origins includes Austin Stowell as special agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, Mariel Molino as Lala Dominguez, Kyle Schmid as Mike Franks, Diany Rodriguez as Vera Strickland, Tyla Abercrumbie as officer Mary Jo Sullivan. An official trailer teased Gibbs joining a squad of special agents, making his mark as a team member before becoming the fan-favorite leader in NCIS. The official synopsis:
“NCIS: ORIGINS begins in 1991, years prior to the events of NCIS and follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, narrated by Mark Harmon. In the series, Gibbs starts his career as a newly minted special agent at the fledgling NCIS Camp Pendleton office where he forges his place on a gritty, ragtag team led by NCIS legend Mike Franks.”
NCIS: Origins
premieres October 14 on CBS, soon after the start of the 22nd season of
NCIS
.