As NCIS: Origins gears up for its second season this fall, one big question hangs in the air: When will Leroy Jethro Gibbs stop being a probie and start acting like the legendary leader we know he’s destined to become?
Season 1 of the NCIS prequel introduced fans to a quieter, more reserved version of Gibbs (played by Austin Stowell), working under the command of Mike Franks (Kyle Schmid) at Camp Pendleton. Despite his intense instincts — including suspicions about the Bugs/second sniper case — Gibbs often held his tongue and deferred to authority. But now, fans are wondering: When will Gibbs find his voice?
Co-showrunner David J. North promises that the evolution is coming — but it’ll feel earned.
“We’re inching our way there, definitely, in a way that we think is honest for the character,” North tells TVLine.
Season 1 ended with Gibbs’ instincts being validated — a pivotal moment that laid the groundwork for his slow transformation from quiet team player to commanding presence. But don’t expect a sudden shift in Season 2.
“He didn’t gnaw at Franks and say, ‘Hey, my gut…’ — and he learned in the end he was right,” North explains. “Those are all stepping stones toward becoming the Gibbs that we met in 2003.”
With standout performances from its ensemble — including Mariel Molino as Lala Dominguez and Caleb Foote as Randy Randolf — NCIS: Origins has carved out its own identity within the franchise. Though it didn’t break records in the ratings, fans and critics alike gave the debut season high marks for its thoughtful storytelling and nuanced look at the formative years of an iconic character.
Season 2 will continue that evolution. And if Gibbs’ growing confidence and instincts are any hint, viewers might just witness the early flickers of the future NCIS leader — the man who would one day run the D.C. office with his trademark glare, gravel voice, and gut.
Tune in Tuesdays this fall to watch Gibbs take the next step in becoming the Boss.
