NCIS: Origins is heading into Season 3 with a notable behind-the-scenes change. Co-showrunner Gina Lucita Monreal will depart the CBS drama at the end of its second season, marking her second exit from the NCIS universe.
Monreal spent 10 years as a writer-producer on the original NCIS before stepping away in 2021 to pursue other projects. She later returned to help launch NCIS: Origins, the prequel centered on a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, co-created with David J. North after discussions with executive producers Mark Harmon and Sean Harmon.
While Monreal is leaving to focus on new creative opportunities, North will remain with the series and take over as the sole showrunner. CBS executives issued a statement thanking Monreal for her leadership and vision, while both she and North emphasized that the characters and stories she helped shape will continue well beyond her departure.