Introduction: Sparks Are Flying in the NCIS Universe
The NCIS universe has always balanced high-stakes crime-solving with complex character dynamics — but NCIS: Origins, the prequel series exploring young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, is turning up the emotional heat. And now, one of its breakout stars is opening up about their hopes for romance in Season 2 — with a line that has fans buzzing:
“Either kiss me or don’t.”
Yep, that’s what one of the show’s leads said in a recent interview, and it’s got the fandom spiraling with speculation.
Let’s unpack what this means, who said it, and why Season 2 might bring the steamiest storyline yet in the NCIS timeline.
Who Dropped the “Kiss Me” Bombshell?
Meet Austin Stowell — The Man Behind Young Gibbs
32-year-old actor Austin Stowell, who plays a younger and more emotionally raw version of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, is the one stirring the pot. While he’s been praised for capturing the subtle intensity of the character, he’s also hinting at something fans didn’t expect: a romantic arc.
In an interview with TVLine, Stowell said:
“There’s tension, there’s connection… now let’s be honest — either kiss me or don’t. Let’s stop dancing around it.”
Is Gibbs Headed for Romance in Season 2?
The Prequel Is Exploring the Man Before the Rulebook
Fans know the older Gibbs as someone ruled by personal codes (hello, Rule #12: Never date a co-worker). But Origins is showing us a different version of Gibbs — less guarded, more impulsive, and emotionally available.
That means romance is absolutely on the table.
“We’re seeing the guy who hasn’t built all the walls yet,” Stowell explained.
Who Could the Romance Involve?
Meet Special Agent Lillian “Lily” Carter
One name that keeps coming up in fan theories? Lillian Carter, a fellow agent and potential love interest portrayed with a sharp wit and even sharper instincts. Their on-screen chemistry has been simmering from day one — and it’s not just fans who’ve noticed.
Stowell Teases Big Emotional Payoff
“There’s this pull between them that we’ve been carefully building. The audience can feel it. I can feel it. So I’m like — come on already!”
Whether it’s a slow burn or a sudden spark, he’s clearly ready for Season 2 to turn up the emotional volume.
Why Romance in ‘Origins’ Makes Sense
The Humanity Behind the Badge
Before Gibbs became the famously no-nonsense leader, he was a young agent with a life full of firsts — including heartbreak. NCIS: Origins is uniquely positioned to explore those formative experiences.
Romance doesn’t just add spice — it deepens the emotional stakes.
What Fans Are Saying
Social Media Is Already Ship-Crazy
Fans have taken to Twitter and Reddit with enthusiasm:
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“Lily + Gibbs is the pairing I never knew I needed.”
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“If they don’t kiss in Season 2 I’m starting a petition.”
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“The tension is chef’s kiss — give us the payoff!”
Why Stowell’s Honesty Resonates
Breaking the ‘Stoic Male Lead’ Trope
In a genre packed with emotionally unavailable protagonists, Stowell’s openness about wanting real human connection — even romantic — is refreshing.
“Romance doesn’t make a man weak. It shows who he is when he’s not wearing the badge.”
What We Know About Season 2 So Far
No Official Plot Details Yet — But All Signs Point to Heat
CBS has remained tight-lipped about Origins Season 2 plotlines. But the creative team has hinted at deeper character exploration and evolving partnerships — two phrases that all but scream romance potential.
A New Side of Gibbs Fans Have Never Seen
Vulnerable, Emotional, and At a Crossroads
Season 2 could explore Gibbs at a romantic crossroads — before heartbreak hardened him, before his personal rules defined his every move.
“We’re telling the story of how a man becomes that man. And love — or losing love — plays a huge part in that journey,” Stowell said.
Could This Romance Rewrite Gibbs’ Origin Story?
A Prequel With Emotional Power
This isn’t about rewriting history — it’s about filling in the blanks. Who broke Gibbs’ heart? What shaped his views on love and loyalty?
Season 2 might just give us those answers — and it could change how fans see the entire NCIS saga.
Conclusion: The Kiss That Could Change Everything
Austin Stowell didn’t mince words when he said:
“Either kiss me or don’t.”
It’s not just a line. It’s a challenge — to the writers, to the story, and to fans who’ve been watching the slow-burning tension unfold. With Season 2 on the horizon, NCIS: Origins is primed to dive deeper into the emotional life of young Gibbs — and that includes the messy, meaningful, and magnetic parts of love.
So, will they or won’t they?
The answer could reshape Gibbs forever.
FAQs
1. Who is Austin Stowell referring to when he says “Either kiss me or don’t”?
He’s likely referencing the ongoing romantic tension between young Gibbs and fellow agent Lily Carter in NCIS: Origins.
2. Will romance play a major role in Season 2 of NCIS: Origins?
While not officially confirmed, hints from cast interviews — especially Stowell’s — suggest yes, romance will be explored more deeply.
3. Is this romance canon to Gibbs’ character in the original NCIS series?
Not specifically, but Origins explores Gibbs before he created his rules, including the infamous “no dating coworkers” policy.
4. When does NCIS: Origins Season 2 premiere?
CBS has not yet announced a premiere date, but the series is expected to return in mid-to-late 2025.
5. How have fans reacted to the possibility of a romance?
Most fans are excited and eager to see a new, more emotional side of young Gibbs, though some remain cautiously optimistic about how it’s handled.
