NCIS: Hawai’i’s cancelation ahead of season 4 was preceded with the development of another offshoot — NCIS: Origins. The franchise’s first prequel story debuted in September 2024 AND explores the backstory of Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the agency. While the shows have very little overlap, NCIS: Origins taking over NCIS: Hawai’i’s former timeslot created some commotion, especially among fans who weren’t thrilled with the cancelation in the first place. The new prequel series airs after the original NCIS on Monday nights when Hawai’i used to air new episodes. Ironically, NCIS: Origins season 1, episode 6, “Incognito,” highlighted the importance of strong female representation in the NCIS franchise.
Ironically, NCIS: Origins season 1, episode 6, “Incognito,” highlighted the importance of strong female representation in the NCIS franchise. NCIS: Origins taking over for NCIS: Hawai’i in CBS’ programming roster has made the cancelation worse. Critics of the decision point out that while NCIS: Origins builds on existing lore within the NCIS franchise, NCIS: Hawai’i was more progressive, bringing more to the table regarding representation and diversity. Ironically, NCIS: Origins season 1, episode 6, “Incognito,” highlighted the importance of strong female representation in the franchise. Unfortunately, the series replaced the franchise’s most valuable resource for said representation.
A Bold Shift in the NCIS Universe
Let’s talk TV shakeups—because CBS just made one that has both excited and confused fans. NCIS: Origins, the highly anticipated prequel series, is officially stepping into the primetime slot previously held by NCIS: Hawai’i. But what does this mean for the franchise, the fans, and the future of both shows?
In this deep dive, we’ll explore how this change came to be, what it means for CBS’s long-running NCIS universe, and whether Origins has what it takes to fill the island-sized shoes left behind.
What Is NCIS: Origins?
A Prequel Worth Watching
NCIS: Origins is a character-driven prequel centered around a younger version of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs—played by Austin Stowell. It takes us back to the early 1990s, when Gibbs first joined the NCIS team under the leadership of Mike Franks.
The Creative Brains Behind It
This series is helmed by NCIS veterans, including co-creator David J. North and executive producer Gina Lucita Monreal. With Mark Harmon himself involved as a narrator and executive producer, expectations are sky-high.
What Happened to NCIS: Hawai’i?
A Sudden Exit
After just three seasons, NCIS: Hawai’i was abruptly canceled by CBS, leaving fans stunned. The decision, reportedly influenced by budget constraints and reshuffling priorities, came despite the show’s solid ratings and diverse cast.
Fan Outrage and Social Media Backlash
When CBS announced the cancellation, social media exploded with hashtags like #SaveNCISHawaii and #JusticeForJaneTennant. Thousands of loyal fans called out the network for cutting short a show that brought much-needed representation to the NCIS lineup.
Why NCIS: Origins Replaced NCIS: Hawai’i
CBS’s Strategic Move
CBS’s decision was calculated. NCIS: Origins offers a nostalgic dive into Gibbs’s backstory, which has always been a point of curiosity for long-time viewers. With declining linear TV ratings across the board, the network needed a headline-grabbing pivot.
Leveraging the NCIS Brand
By pushing Origins into a prime slot, CBS is betting on brand loyalty. Gibbs remains one of the most iconic characters in the NCIS universe, and his return—even in a younger form—is bound to draw eyeballs.
The Target Audience: Different but Connected
Hawai’i’s Unique Appeal
NCIS: Hawai’i brought sunny island vibes, a female lead, and a modern, multicultural team. Its fanbase skewed younger and more diverse, something CBS will need to work hard to retain.
Origins for the Longtime Loyalists
Meanwhile, Origins is clearly aimed at OG NCIS fans—those who miss the old days of Gibbs, DiNozzo, and forensic banter with Abby. It’s a play for nostalgia, but with a fresh cast and era.
The Storyline: What Can We Expect from NCIS: Origins?
Back to the ’90s
Expect vintage fashion, old-school tech, and the classic investigative drama style that made NCIS iconic. The early years of Gibbs’s career were mentioned only in fragments across the original series—now fans get the full picture.
The Franks-Gibbs Dynamic
This mentorship between Mike Franks and Gibbs will likely take center stage. Think of it as a mix of training day vibes with the emotional core of a coming-of-age story—military-style.
Production Quality & Nostalgia Factor
Set Design and Throwback Appeal
From CRT monitors to military bases of the ’90s, production designers are all in on creating a visually nostalgic experience. The setting alone might be a big hook for viewers who love retro details.
Mark Harmon’s Voiceover Magic
Having Harmon narrate the series? Genius. It bridges the generational gap between old fans and new characters. His presence alone adds authenticity and continuity.
Cast Highlights: New Faces with Familiar Vibes
Austin Stowell as Young Gibbs
Stowell brings intensity and a brooding edge that matches the legacy of Mark Harmon. While no one can replace Harmon, Stowell is already being praised for nailing the physicality and quiet strength of the character.
Supporting Cast Building Fresh Chemistry
Expect fresh team dynamics, budding rivalries, and foundational relationships that explain the Gibbs we came to know in the original series.
Timeslot Details and CBS’s Plan
Taking Over Mondays at 10 PM ET/PT
This was NCIS: Hawai’i’s slot, and it’s now owned by Origins. CBS hopes to maintain strong Monday night momentum following the flagship NCIS series.
Lead-In Strategy
Pairing Origins with the main NCIS show on the same night is a strategic move to drive maximum viewership and audience retention.
Ratings Expectations and Network Goals
Anticipating a Ratings Spike
CBS is banking on legacy fans tuning in. If the premiere numbers hold strong, Origins could become a permanent Monday fixture.
Streaming and Global Appeal
With Paramount+ distribution, international fans will also get access early on, expanding reach beyond U.S. broadcast.
Why the Transition Matters
Franchise Longevity
Introducing prequels is a proven tactic for sustaining long-term interest (just ask Better Call Saul). This move could extend the NCIS brand for another decade.
A New Creative Era
Origins offers writers a clean slate. There’s room to build fresh arcs without being shackled by current continuity.
What Viewers Are Saying
Mixed Reactions Across Social Media
Some fans are thrilled for more Gibbs. Others are still mourning Hawai’i’s cancellation. There’s no doubt Origins has massive shoes to fill.
Final Verdict: Is NCIS: Origins Worth Watching?
Short Answer: Yes—If You’re a True NCIS Fan
If you’ve ever been curious about how Gibbs became Gibbs, this series is for you. With strong writing, an intriguing premise, and legacy DNA, NCIS: Origins might just be the adrenaline shot the franchise needed.
Conclusion: A Bittersweet But Strategic Move
The replacement of NCIS: Hawai’i with NCIS: Origins is one part marketing move, one part fan service, and one part narrative gamble. While it’s sad to say goodbye to Jane Tennant and her team, the birth of young Gibbs’s story brings its own excitement. In the ever-evolving landscape of TV, sometimes the only way to move forward… is to go back to the beginning.
