Yes, NCIS and NCIS: Origins may take place 30 years apart, but the upcoming crossover will still feature some of the same characters in both hours (including Vera, played by Diany Rodriguez and Roma Maffia) — and actors as well! TV Insider has learned exclusively that Bobby Moynihan and Ely Henry will be playing older versions of their Origins characters, forensic analyst Woody and chemist Phil, on the mothership. We also have exclusive photos offering a first look at the two alongside Torres (Wilmer Valderrama). See them above and below.
For the crossover, the two shows swap timeslots, so that the action begins on Origins, with a death of a naval officer in a small town. Then, on NCIS, a prison break leads to the present-day team reopening the case. The executive producers across the two shows — David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal on Origins and Steven D. Binder on NCIS — all agree that Moynihan and Henry are hilarious.
A New Era for the NCIS Universe
If you’re a fan of the NCIS franchise (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), then the upcoming crossover with NCIS: Origins is something you absolutely cannot ignore. Imagine characters you thought you knew—then fast-forward them 30 years. That’s exactly what’s happening. Actors Bobby Moynihan and Ely Henry are stepping into the future as older versions of Woody and Phil, bringing both humor and continuity to the sprawling NCIS universe.
In this article we’ll dig into what it all means: the characters, the story beats, the production insights, and why this crossover might just be one of the biggest NCIS moments yet.
What is NCIS: Origins? – The Prequel That Sets the Stage
A Quick Overview
NCIS: Origins follows a younger version of the famed special agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs in 1991, at a fledgling office of the NIS (Naval Investigative Service) in Camp Pendleton.
Why This Prequel Matters
This show isn’t just a spin-off—it builds the backstory of the NCIS universe, offering fans deeper context on the legacy characters. Plus, it introduces new faces like Woody and Phil who we’ve grown to like.
Woody and Phil in Origins
In Origins, Woody (forensic analyst Woodrow Browne) and Phil (chemist Philip Elertson) are part of that early NIS investigative team. Their contributions initially may seem smaller—but here’s the kicker: they’re bridging into the main show.
The Big Crossover: What’s Going On?
The Mechanics of the Event
The crossover begins with Origins. There’s a death of a naval officer in a small town. Then we switch to NCIS where a prison break reopens the case. Woody and Phil step into the present to offer pivotal evidence.
Why Woody & Phil Were Chosen
According to executive producers, Woody and Phil were selected because they survive far into the future. That gives the show a different kind of dynamic. As producer Steven D. Binder explained: showing them 30 years later means the audience knows they’re alive, so they can’t be used as typical “in jeopardy” characters.
Swapping Timeslots for Maximum Effect
The crossover even plays with scheduling: the events start on Origins, then move directly into NCIS. That helps preserve the narrative continuity and surprise.
Who Are Woody & Phil? Meet the Characters
Woody (Woodrow Browne)
Woody is the forensic analyst—he’s got that brainy-quirky type, someone who examines evidence in the lab while also being part of the team’s banter.
Phil (Philip Elertson)
Phil teams up with Woody as the chemist. The classic “brains in the lab” duo. They complement each other—they’ve been side-by-side since Origins.
Older Versions in NCIS
Now fast-forward: when they appear in NCIS proper, we’ll see them 30 years older. That means experiences, scars, jokes, maybe attitude changes. It’s fun to see how characters evolve.
Why This Crossover Is Significant
Reinforcing Franchise Continuity
With this move, the NCIS franchise is deepening its ties across shows—and that matters, because fans love that interconnectedness. It’s not just a cameo; it’s thoughtful.
Expanding Character Arcs
Typically lab guys don’t get big arcs; they’re supportive. But by flashing them into the future, Woody and Phil are getting rare spotlight time.
Balancing Drama + Humor
The producers mention the show is “humor‐based” and that Woody & Phil are hilarious. That lightness helps, because a crossover can feel heavy—but this one seems to keep the fun.
Behind the Scenes – Insights from the Producers
Survivor Status
Been wondering whether Woody & Phil survive through decades? The answer: yes. Producer David J. North confirms they do. That’s rare in a show where stakes are lethal.
Writers’ Room Vibes
When the crossover was being shot, director/writer Marco Schnabel and the team were “laughing hysterically” at Woody & Phil’s scenes. That suggests the episodes retain a playful tone.
Risks of Time-Jump Crossovers
Binder points out the danger: “If someone appears 30 years in the future, you will never feel they’re in jeopardy” so character choice matters. Woody & Phil were chosen because they’re the right “ingredients”.
What This Means for the NCIS Fanbase
A Treat for Longtime Viewers
If you’ve been watching NCIS since the early seasons, this crossover rewards you—characters, callbacks, the larger lore.
Entry Point for New Viewers
Origins gives fresh viewers a place to jump in, then the crossover bridges them into the main show. So it’s smart from a network perspective.
Expectations & Theories
Fans will speculate: Will Woody & Phil have changed? Will they reference major events from past NCIS seasons? Will they bring secrets? All good questions.
The Story Blueprint – Episode Flow Breakdown
Part One – Origins Segment
Naval officer’s death shakes up a small town. Woody & Phil investigate. Setup.
Transition – Lead into NCIS
A prison break in the present reopens the case. Scenes tie the past to now.
Part Two – NCIS Segment
Present-day team picks up clues delivered by older Woody & Phil. Tension + resolution.
Key Moments to Watch For
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Woody & Phil’s reaction to “today”.
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References to past NCIS lore.
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The emotional stakes—they may survive, but what have they survived through?
Easter Eggs for Fans
Look out for callbacks to Gibbs’ rules, Mike Franks, and the early days of the NIS. Origins ties in heavy.
Impact on Future Seasons & Spin-Offs
Franchise Expansion
By linking Origins directly with NCIS, the brand is setting up more crossover potential.
Character Longevity
Woody & Phil might reappear in future seasons, perhaps in flash-forwards or as recurring characters. The fact they “survive” opens options.
Fan Engagement & Streaming Strategy
Crossovers drive buzz, social-media chatter, and streaming views. Expect this event to be heavily marketed.
Why the Timing is Perfect
TV Landscape Shift
In 2025, viewers are hungry for shared universes (not just in movies). TV crossovers like this feel fresh.
Nostalgia Factor
Longtime NCIS fans appreciate nods to the past. Origins gives that nod plus something new.
Cast Synergy
Bobby Moynihan brings comedic chops; Ely Henry matches him. Their chemistry elevates moments beyond “just another cop show”.
What to Look Forward to (and What to Watch Out For)
Look Forward To
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The dynamic between Woody & Phil as older men.
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How the lab/chemistry side of NCIS plays out in a crossover.
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Easter eggs referencing earlier NCIS seasons.
Watch Out For
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Will the time jump reduce stakes? If characters are shown alive far ahead, danger can feel diminished. Producers say they’re aware of that.
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Will the humor tone sit well with heavier NCIS drama? Balancing that will be key.
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Can newer viewers follow along easily? Hopefully yes—but some background could help.
Conclusion
The crossover between NCIS and Origins isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a smart storytelling move that deepens the franchise while giving fans something fresh and fun. With Woody and Phil stepping into the spotlight in older-versions form, we get both continuity and evolution. Whether you’re a long-time viewer or just tuning in, this event is worth keeping an eye on. Get ready for laughs, surprises, forensic intrigue, and a timeline that stretches decades.
