Alden Parker, portrayed by the talented Gary Cole, has had a rocky journey since stepping into the shoes of former NCIS team leader, Gibbs. While Parker has brought a fresh energy to the series, many fans feel he hasn’t quite hit the mark yet. If you’re one of those fans wondering what it will take for Parker to become a great character in NCIS Season 22, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into the one crucial change that could make all the difference.
The Parker Dilemma: A Character in Limbo
When Alden Parker first appeared, expectations were high. After all, he was taking over a beloved character’s position! However, viewers quickly noticed that Parker lacked the depth and nuance that Gibbs had. But what is it about Parker that feels off?
Underwhelming Development
One of the main issues with Alden Parker is his character development—or lack thereof. Unlike Gibbs, who had a rich backstory filled with trauma, complexity, and growth, Parker feels a bit like a flat character in a three-dimensional world. What’s going on here?
The Need for a Backstory
Imagine stepping into a new job without knowing the company culture. That’s what it feels like watching Parker without a clear understanding of his past. The audience craves context. What shaped him? What are his motivations? Providing a backstory could add layers to his character that are currently missing.
What Makes a Great Character?
To understand how to elevate Alden Parker, let’s explore what typically makes a character truly great in a series like NCIS.
Relatability and Depth
Fans connect with characters they can relate to. When characters exhibit flaws, struggles, and triumphs, they become more human. Right now, Parker feels a bit too perfect or predictable. Adding some relatable challenges could make him more engaging.
Conflict and Resolution
Conflict drives a narrative. Without personal or professional stakes, Parker’s storylines often fall flat. What if he faced a moral dilemma? Or perhaps a crisis that forced him to choose between his duty and his conscience? Such conflicts can add tension and intrigue.
The Solution: A Major Character Shift
So, what’s the huge change that NCIS Season 22 needs for Alden Parker? It boils down to this: Introduce significant internal conflict and vulnerability.
Humanizing Parker
Imagine if Parker faced a crisis that forced him to confront his past decisions or relationships. Maybe a former partner resurfaces, or he struggles with a personal loss. This would not only humanize him but also give the audience a reason to root for his character.
Bringing in New Dynamics
Another approach could involve introducing new relationships that challenge Parker’s views and decisions. How would he react to a partner who questions his methods? This could lead to intriguing dialogues and growth for both characters.
Building Relationships: A Double-Edged Sword
The Mentor-Mentee Dynamic
What if Parker had a younger character to mentor? This dynamic could reveal more about his character while simultaneously offering him a chance to grow. A mentor role could allow Parker to reflect on his choices and provide viewers with insights into his character.
Fleshing Out Team Dynamics
Parker’s relationship with the team is vital. Currently, it feels somewhat surface-level. Deepening these relationships could create opportunities for conflict, camaraderie, and character growth.
Engaging Story Arcs: More Than Just Cases
Character-Driven Plotlines
In the world of NCIS, the cases are essential. However, character-driven plotlines are equally crucial. By intertwining personal stories with the main plot, writers can create a more compelling narrative. For instance, what if a case reminded Parker of a painful past? This connection could serve as a powerful storytelling tool.
Leveraging the Ensemble Cast
NCIS is known for its fantastic ensemble cast. Each character brings a unique perspective. By leveraging this diversity, the show can create more engaging and multi-layered story arcs that challenge Parker’s beliefs and methods.
Parker’s Journey: A Roadmap to Greatness
Step 1: Develop a Rich Backstory
Craft a detailed backstory for Alden Parker that explains his motivations and struggles. This could include personal losses, past relationships, or even career challenges.
Step 2: Introduce Internal Conflict
Create scenarios where Parker must face internal dilemmas. Perhaps he has to confront a moral question about a case that hits too close to home.
Step 3: Explore Relationships
Flesh out Parker’s relationships with other team members. How do they view him? What conflicts could arise?
Step 4: Create Engaging Story Arcs
Intertwine Parker’s personal journey with the cases at hand. Let the audience see how the cases impact him emotionally and mentally.
Step 5: Showcase Growth
Allow Parker to grow through these experiences. Show him learning from his mistakes and evolving as a character.
The Future of Alden Parker in NCIS
The potential for Alden Parker is immense. By introducing deeper internal conflicts, enriching his backstory, and enhancing his relationships with other characters, NCIS Season 22 can finally make him a character worth rooting for. Fans are eager to see Parker grow, and it’s high time for the show to rise to the occasion!
A Call to Action
So, if you’re a fan of NCIS, let your voice be heard! Share your thoughts on Alden Parker and what you believe is necessary for his character development. After all, the best stories evolve with their audience!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Alden Parker has the potential to become a standout character in NCIS Season 22, but it requires a significant shift in how he’s portrayed. By diving into his backstory, presenting him with internal conflicts, and enhancing his relationships with the team, the show can transform him from a mediocre character into a great one. Fans deserve a rich, engaging narrative, and with these changes, Parker could finally find his place in the hearts of viewers.
