The world of NCIS is set to expand with its latest prequel, “NCIS: Origins,” promising a nostalgic journey into the lives of some of its most iconic characters. This new spinoff not only brings back fan favorites but also offers a unique glimpse into the past, particularly the formative years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, a character that has become synonymous with the NCIS franchise.
A Blast from the Past: NCIS Revisits its Roots
“NCIS: Origins” marks a significant step in the NCIS saga, taking fans back to the early 1990s. This period piece sets itself in 1991, with a young Gibbs freshly stepping into his role as a special agent at NCIS Camp Pendleton. Under the guidance of the legendary Mike Franks, portrayed by Muse Watson, Gibbs navigates the challenges of forming his identity in a gritty and unpolished team. The series promises to retain the core essence of NCIS while exploring the untold stories of its characters.
The Return of Vera Strickland
Adding to the excitement, TVLine reports that Special Agent Vera Strickland, played by Roma Maffia, will be featured in the prequel. Fans will remember Strickland as Frank’s former partner, introduced in a Season 11 episode. Her inclusion in “NCIS: Origins” is a strategic move, likely to enrich the narrative by shedding light on lesser-known aspects of the NCIS lore.
Beautiful moments behind the cameras of the beloved NCIS family!!! 🥰❤️#MichaelWeatherly #NCIS pic.twitter.com/bJRmBJE4vx
— Cristal Cortes Valdez (@CristalCortesV1) January 10, 2024
Mark Harmon: From Gibbs to Narrator
One of the most intriguing aspects of “NCIS: Origins” is Mark Harmon’s involvement. While he will not be reprising his role as Gibbs, Harmon’s voice will guide viewers through the series as its narrator. His son, Sean Harmon, who previously played a younger version of Gibbs, steps into a producing role, stating, “The character of Gibbs has been an important part of my life for 20 years. I am thrilled to be stepping into a producing role as we tell this story and reveal a new side of this beloved character.”
NCIS’s Continuing Popularity
Despite Mark Harmon’s departure from the main series in its nineteenth season, “NCIS” continues to resonate with audiences. The anticipation for Season 21 and the upcoming third season of “NCIS: Hawai‘i” is a testament to the franchise’s enduring appeal. Meanwhile, “NCIS: Origins” is still in development, slated for the 2024-25 television season, with fans eagerly awaiting its premiere.
“NCIS: Origins” represents a confluence of nostalgia and new explorations, promising a series that is both a homage to the past and a fresh narrative. The return of beloved characters, coupled with the exploration of Gibbs’ early years, is poised to captivate both long-time fans and new viewers, adding another chapter to the enduring legacy of NCIS.
