The NCIS universe is no stranger to emotional backstories, layered characters, and slow-burn revelations. But this time? The franchise is digging even deeper. With NCIS: Origins, fans are finally getting something they’ve been craving for years—a closer look at the formative moments that shaped their favorite agents. And front and center in the upcoming buzz-heavy episode is young Dwayne Pride, a character whose legacy looms large over the NCIS world.
According to the NCIS: Origins boss and actor Austin Stowell, this episode isn’t just another prequel installment. It’s a defining chapter—one that adds emotional weight, moral complexity, and surprising vulnerability to a character fans thought they already knew.
So what makes this episode such a big deal? Let’s break it all down.
What Is NCIS: Origins and Why It Matters
A Fresh Take on a Legendary Franchise
NCIS: Origins isn’t just a nostalgic cash grab. It’s a carefully crafted deep dive into the early careers of iconic NCIS figures, exploring how they became the agents—and leaders—we recognize today.
Instead of flashy cases and high-stakes action right out of the gate, Origins slows things down. It asks the bigger questions:
Who were these people before the badge?
What mistakes shaped them?
And what did they lose along the way?
Why Fans Are Emotionally Invested
Let’s be real—fans don’t stick with a franchise this long unless the characters feel real. NCIS: Origins taps into that emotional investment by pulling back the curtain on the past, turning legends into humans.
And no character embodies that idea better than Dwayne Pride.
Who Is Dwayne Pride in the NCIS Universe?
A Leader Built on Experience and Pain
Dwayne Pride has always been portrayed as steady, intuitive, and quietly intense. He’s the kind of leader who listens more than he talks—and when he does speak, it matters.
But that calm authority didn’t appear overnight.
The Missing Pieces of Pride’s Backstory
Until now, Pride’s early career has been mostly hinted at. Fans know he faced tough choices, personal loss, and moral crossroads—but they’ve never seen it unfold in real time.
That’s exactly what this young Dwayne Pride episode promises to deliver.
Why This Young Dwayne Pride Episode Is a Game-Changer
More Than a Flashback
According to the NCIS: Origins showrunner, this episode isn’t about fan service. It’s about context.
“You can’t understand who Pride becomes unless you see the moment he almost became someone else,” the boss teased.
That line alone should tell fans everything they need to know.
A Turning Point Episode
This story zeroes in on a critical period where young Pride is still figuring out what kind of agent—and man—he wants to be. The episode explores:
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Early leadership struggles
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Conflicting loyalties
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The emotional cost of doing the “right” thing
It’s raw. It’s personal. And yes—it’s emotional.
Austin Stowell on Playing a Younger Version of an Icon
Stepping Into Big Shoes
Portraying a younger version of a beloved character is no easy task. Austin Stowell admits he felt the pressure—but also the opportunity.
“You’re not trying to imitate,” Stowell explained. “You’re trying to understand where that person started.”
Finding Pride’s Vulnerability
Instead of focusing on confidence, Stowell leaned into uncertainty. This version of Pride:
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Doubts his instincts
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Questions authority
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Feels the weight of responsibility early
That vulnerability is what makes the episode resonate.
How NCIS: Origins Reframes Dwayne Pride’s Legacy
The Origin of His Moral Compass
One of the episode’s biggest revelations? The moment Pride’s moral code truly solidifies. It’s not glamorous. It’s not heroic. It’s messy—and that’s the point.
Pain as a Teacher
The show doesn’t shy away from showing how loss and regret become Pride’s greatest teachers. Think of it like forging steel—heat, pressure, and time.
Behind the Scenes: Creative Choices That Elevate the Episode
Writing With Emotional Precision
The writers focused less on plot twists and more on emotional beats. Silence, hesitation, and subtle reactions do a lot of the storytelling heavy lifting.
A Grittier Visual Style
Visually, the episode leans darker. Muted colors and tighter camera work reflect Pride’s internal conflict, making the episode feel intimate and intense.
Connections to the Larger NCIS Timeline
Easter Eggs Fans Will Love
Longtime viewers will spot clever nods to:
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Future alliances
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Long-standing rivalries
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Career decisions that echo decades later
None of it feels forced. It feels earned.
Setting Up Future Origins Episodes
This episode doesn’t just look backward—it sets the tone for what’s ahead. Expect deeper dives into other characters, each shaped by moments just as defining.
Why Fans Are Already Buzzing Online
Social Media Reaction Is Explosive
Early previews and interviews have sparked massive discussion. Fans are praising:
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The emotional depth
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Austin Stowell’s performance
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The respect shown to established canon
Simply put, expectations are sky-high.
A New Entry Point for New Viewers
What’s surprising? You don’t need years of NCIS knowledge to enjoy this episode. It works as a standalone story—grounded, human, and relatable.
What This Episode Says About the Future of NCIS
Less Formula, More Feeling
If this episode is any indication, NCIS: Origins is shifting the franchise toward deeper storytelling. Less “case of the week,” more character-driven drama.
A Blueprint for Longevity
By investing in backstory and emotional truth, NCIS isn’t just extending its universe—it’s future-proofing it.
Conclusion: A Defining Chapter in the NCIS Story
The young Dwayne Pride episode of NCIS: Origins isn’t just another prequel story—it’s a revelation. With thoughtful writing, a standout performance from Austin Stowell, and a clear creative vision from the show’s boss, the episode adds real weight to a character fans already love.
It reminds us that legends aren’t born—they’re shaped by doubt, loss, and the courage to keep going anyway.
And honestly? That’s what great television is all about.
