Introduction
The world of NCIS continues to expand with NCIS: Origins, a prequel series that dives deep into the past of Leroy Jethro Gibbs and his early days in the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. But while the show introduces plenty of new faces, die-hard fans will recognize some familiar names—characters who were first introduced in NCIS before getting their origin stories fleshed out in this new series.
So, who are the NCIS veterans making a comeback in NCIS: Origins? Let’s take a look at five key characters who first appeared in NCIS and are now getting a deeper backstory in the prequel series.
1. Leroy Jethro Gibbs – The Legend Begins
Gibbs is the heart and soul of NCIS, and NCIS: Origins is all about his early years. Fans know Mark Harmon’s Gibbs as the no-nonsense leader with a strict moral code, but the prequel series introduces a younger version of him, played by Austin Stowell.
How He Was Introduced in ‘NCIS’
Gibbs made his debut in NCIS’s backdoor pilot on JAG before becoming the fearless leader of the Major Case Response Team. His rules, his tough love, and his gut instincts became the backbone of the show.
What ‘NCIS: Origins’ Reveals About His Past
The prequel explores Gibbs’ early years, showcasing his rise through the ranks, his time as a Marine, and how he became the agent fans know today. It also dives into his personal struggles, including his relationship with his first wife, Shannon, and their tragic story.
2. Mike Franks – The Mentor Who Shaped Gibbs
Mike Franks was one of the most influential figures in Gibbs’ life. As Gibbs’ mentor, he shaped the agent into the leader fans came to admire.
How He Was Introduced in ‘NCIS’
Franks was first introduced in Season 3 as Gibbs’ former boss. A retired NCIS agent, he lived off the grid in Mexico but often returned to assist Gibbs when things got tough. His no-nonsense, old-school approach made him a fan favorite.
What ‘NCIS: Origins’ Reveals About His Past
In NCIS: Origins, fans get to see a younger Mike Franks in action. The series explores his leadership at NCIS, his working relationship with a young Gibbs, and how he shaped Gibbs’ famous investigative style.
3. Tom Morrow – The Steady Leader of NCIS
Tom Morrow played a crucial role in NCIS as the Director of NCIS before Jenny Shepard and Leon Vance took over.
How He Was Introduced in ‘NCIS’
Morrow was the original NCIS Director when NCIS premiered. He was a level-headed leader who provided guidance to Gibbs and his team. He eventually transitioned to Homeland Security, leaving NCIS in Vance’s hands.
What ‘NCIS: Origins’ Reveals About His Past
The prequel series gives fans a look at a younger Tom Morrow, back when he was a rising star within NCIS. It explores his leadership style and the decisions that put him on the path to becoming director.
4. Special Agent Vera Strickland – A Forgotten NCIS Legend
Vera Strickland may not be as well-known as Gibbs or Franks, but she made a strong impression in NCIS and is now getting a second chance to shine.
How She Was Introduced in ‘NCIS’
Strickland appeared in NCIS Season 11 as a retired agent who worked alongside Gibbs and Franks back in the day. She was a tough-as-nails investigator who had no problem keeping up with the boys.
What ‘NCIS: Origins’ Reveals About Her Past
In NCIS: Origins, Strickland is back in her prime. The series explores her early career, showing her as one of the few women breaking barriers in the male-dominated world of NCIS in the ’90s.
5. Shannon Gibbs – The Love That Defined Gibbs’ Life
Shannon Gibbs might not have been an NCIS agent, but her impact on Gibbs’ life and career was profound.
How She Was Introduced in ‘NCIS’
Shannon and her daughter Kelly were first mentioned in NCIS as the family Gibbs tragically lost. Their deaths became a driving force behind Gibbs’ relentless pursuit of justice.
What ‘NCIS: Origins’ Reveals About Her Past
The prequel series gives fans a deeper look at Shannon, showing her relationship with Gibbs before tragedy struck. It explores their love story, her influence on Gibbs’ moral code, and how her loss changed him forever.
Conclusion
NCIS: Origins isn’t just another spin-off—it’s a deep dive into the past, revealing the untold stories of fan-favorite characters. From a young Gibbs finding his way to Mike Franks shaping him into the agent we know, the series is packed with nostalgia and new revelations.
For longtime NCIS fans, seeing these characters in their earlier days is a treat. And for newcomers, it’s a chance to understand the origins of one of TV’s most beloved crime franchises.
So, are you excited to see these iconic characters in NCIS: Origins? Let us know your thoughts!
FAQs
1. Will Mark Harmon appear in ‘NCIS: Origins’?
Mark Harmon serves as the narrator for NCIS: Origins, but Austin Stowell plays the younger version of Gibbs.
2. When does ‘NCIS: Origins’ take place?
The series is set in the early 1990s, long before the events of NCIS, and follows Gibbs’ early career.
3. Will we see more characters from ‘NCIS’ in the prequel?
It’s highly likely! With Gibbs’ early days being explored, more familiar faces could make appearances.
4. Do I need to watch ‘NCIS’ to understand ‘NCIS: Origins’?
Not necessarily. While NCIS fans will appreciate the deeper backstories, NCIS: Origins is designed to stand on its own.
5. How is ‘NCIS: Origins’ different from other ‘NCIS’ spin-offs?
Unlike other spin-offs, NCIS: Origins focuses entirely on Gibbs’ backstory and the formative years of key NCIS characters.
There you have it—the key NCIS characters making their return in NCIS: Origins! With rich backstories and nostalgic connections, this prequel is shaping up to be a must-watch for any NCIS fan. 🚔💼
