Fans of the NCIS franchise know that key character moments—like Gibbs’ head slap or his strict code—are iconic. Now, NCIS: Origins showrunners Gina Lucita Monreal and David J. North have hinted that Season 2 will include another trademark Gibbs scene, one fans know from the original series but never saw on a younger version of Gibbs.
Season 2 Renewal Confirms Bigger Storytelling Awaits
Season 2 of NCIS: Origins was officially renewed by CBS in early 2025. The show will return in Fall 2025—likely Mondays or Tuesdays at 9 pm ET—sandwiched between NCIS and NCIS: Sydney. The creative team aims to deepen Gibbs’ character, especially his emotional fallout from family tragedy and his evolving relationships with colleagues like Mike Franks and Lala. Cinemablend+15People.com+15Gamerant+15
That Major Gibbs Scene—What Could It Be?
While showrunners haven’t named it outright, everything hints at Gibbs’ signature head slap or another ritual fans instantly recognize. Previously discussed as part of his moral code and discipline, this moment is expected to appear in Gibbs’ formative years this upcoming season.
Why Fans Care About Canon
Making Lore Tangible
Monreal has stressed that the writers maintain a strict timeline to preserve NCIS canon. That means every established moment—from introduction of the Fed 5 to Gibbs’ rules—will be honored as authentic franchise history. Reddit+2Screen Rant+2Cinemablend+2
More Canon Moments Cooking in Season Two
Formation of the Fed 5
Season 2 is expected to dramatize the formation of the legendary Fed 5 team: Gibbs, Mike Franks, Dwayne Pride (NCIS: New Orleans), Felix Betts, and Dan McLane. Fans saw a glimpse in Season 11’s “Crescent City”—now we’ll see it firsthand. Cinemablend+15Cinemablend+15Screen Rant+15
Deeper Dive into Mike Franks and Family Secrets
The show will explore Mike Franks’ backstory—including the long-awaited introduction of his estranged brother Mason, teased at the end of Season 1. That reunion is built on a single line from original NCIS, now fully fleshed out.Cinemablend+1EW.com+1
Gibbs & Lala’s Complex Dynamic
Season 1 ended on a cliffhanger with Lala Dominguez in a serious car accident and her connection to Gibbs’ emotional journey deepening. Monreal confirmed Season 2 will further explore their bond—and how Lala shaped the future Gibbs.Reddit+13The Express Tribune+13Screen Rant+13
A Snowball Effect—Canonical Ripples to Impact the Future
Season 2 is positioning itself as an emotional backbone for Gibbs’ legendary traits, foreshadowed in NCIS. As Gibbs grows, audiences will see how small moments—like that rumored head slap—evolve into defining personality traits. Franks’ camaraderie, Lala’s influence, and the Fed 5 formation all tie back into those long-standing traditions.
How Showrunners Approach These Moments
Honest, Character-Driven Evolution
Executive producer David J. North emphasized that Season 2 will mark Gibbs’ progression from a probationary agent to someone who trusts his gut and leads investigations—signaling the early emergence of his leadership style.Sportskeeda+15Brigada News+15Screen Rant+15
Slow-Burn Stakes, Big Payoffs
The team is gradually building Gibbs’ moral code—not forcefully, but through choices that ripple forward. Monreal confirmed that every moment builds toward major callbacks in later seasons. Cinemablend+9The Express Tribune+9CBR+9
What What to Expect in Season 2
| Key Element | Expected Role in Season 2 |
|---|---|
| Gibbs’ trademark moment | Introduction of an established behavior |
| Fed 5 origin story | Formation of iconic team dynamics |
| Franks family arc | Reuniting with Mason and exploring loyalty |
| Relationships evolve | Gibbs-Lala, leadership, moral test |
With production gearing up and tone confirmed, Season 2 is shaping up to be the franchise’s most authentically connected chapter yet.
Final Thoughts—A Nostalgic, Character-Driven Payoff
The thrill of NCIS: Origins Season 2 lies in seeing beloved Gibbs lore brought to life. The teased scene—whether a head slap, a rule origin or something else—will help bridge prequel and legacy in a way that both honors and enhances core fans’ understanding of Gibbs. Cinemablend+1Collider+1Reddit+2Screen Rant+2Cinemablend+2EW.com+1Cinemablend+1Cinemablend+1EW.com+1Reddit+8EW.com+8Reddit+8Sportskeeda+5Cinemablend+5Brigada News+5
Francise lore matters, emotional character arcs matter, and this is a rare intersection of the two. Season 2 is poised to deliver a deeper, more impactful Gibbs journey that resonates across the entire NCIS universe.
5 Unique FAQs
Q1: What iconic Gibbs moment is expected to debut in Season 2?
Showrunners hint at a canonical Gibbs trademark—most likely the famous head slap or another recurring ritual from the original series.
Q2: When will Season 2 of NCIS: Origins premiere?
It’s confirmed for Fall 2025, airing Mondays or Tuesdays at 9 pm ET on CBS, paired with NCIS and NCIS: Sydney. Screen Rant+2Cinemablend+2Cinemablend+2
Q3: Who is returning for Season 2?
Look for Austin Stowell as young Gibbs, Kyle Schmid as Mike Franks, Mariel Molino as Lala, Caleb Foote as Randy, and possibly others like Vera and Mary Jo. Screen Rant+12People.com+12EW.com+12
Q4: Will there be crossovers with other NCIS shows?
Yes—Season 2 is set to showcase the formation of the Fed 5, linking back to NCIS: New Orleans characters like Dwayne Pride and McLane. Collider+15Cinemablend+15Screen Rant+15
Q5: How faithful is Origins to NCIS canon?
Showrunners emphasize a strict timeline and respect for franchise lore—vital events and character histories will be addressed or introduced on-screen. Screen Rant+1IMDb+1
Custom Message:
Thanks for diving deep into the Gibbs origin story with me! Season 2 of NCIS: Origins promises the perfect blend of nostalgia and new discovery—can’t wait to see it unfold.
