The Challenge of Writing Gibbs & Lala’s Relationship in NCIS: Origins
NCIS has been a powerhouse franchise for years, but NCIS: Origins presents a unique challenge—filling in the blanks of Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ past without contradicting established canon. One of the most difficult storylines? Crafting Gibbs’ relationship with Lala, a key figure in his early life. Showrunners have opened up about the complexities of staying true to Gibbs’ character while building a compelling romance.
Why Writing Gibbs & Lala’s Relationship Is So Complex
Bringing in a love interest for a younger Gibbs isn’t just about chemistry—it’s about making sure it aligns with the character’s backstory that NCIS fans already know. Any misstep could cause inconsistencies and upset longtime viewers who have spent years following Gibbs’ journey.
Gibbs’ Character Arc: Staying True to the Man We Know
Gibbs Is a Lone Wolf—How Does That Fit?
Gibbs has always been portrayed as a lone wolf, haunted by his past. His relationships, especially post-Shannon and Kelly, have often been fleeting or complicated. How does introducing Lala in NCIS: Origins fit into that established narrative?
Finding the Right Balance Between Romance and Tragedy
Fans know that Gibbs’ life is marked by loss. His deep love for Shannon defined him, so writing a love story before that tragic chapter in his life is tricky. How can Lala’s presence be meaningful without undermining what we already know about his character?
The Struggles of Retconning Without Ruining Canon
How to Add to Gibbs’ Story Without Changing It
The biggest challenge for the NCIS: Origins team is adding new layers to Gibbs’ past without rewriting what’s already been established. They must make sure that his experiences with Lala don’t contradict anything we’ve seen in the main NCIS timeline.
Avoiding Plot Holes and Continuity Errors
One slip-up could create massive plot holes. The showrunners have to carefully weave in details about Lala without making past NCIS storylines feel inconsistent.
Crafting Lala: A Love Interest Who Feels Authentic
Introducing a New Character Without Forcing It
Lala is a fresh addition to NCIS lore, but she can’t just be thrown into Gibbs’ life for the sake of romance. She has to feel like she belongs in the story naturally.
The Challenge of Making Lala Stand Out
Gibbs has had multiple love interests throughout NCIS, and fans are used to seeing him struggle with relationships. Lala has to be different—her connection with young Gibbs must be compelling enough to justify her presence in his backstory.
How Showrunners Handle Emotional Storytelling
Writing Romantic Chemistry That Feels Real
Chemistry isn’t just about good dialogue—it’s about making the audience feel something. The writers have to ensure that Lala and Gibbs’ dynamic is both believable and emotionally resonant.
Creating a Romance That Feels Bittersweet
Since we already know where Gibbs’ life is headed, this relationship can’t have a fairytale ending. It has to feel authentic but also carry an emotional weight that hints at the future heartbreak in Gibbs’ life.
Lala’s Role in Gibbs’ Growth
Shaping Young Gibbs Into the Man Fans Know
Lala’s presence in NCIS: Origins needs to contribute to Gibbs’ development. She can’t just be a love interest—she has to be someone who impacts his personality, choices, and values.
Will Lala’s Fate Be Tragic?
Since Lala isn’t mentioned in the main NCIS series, her fate remains a mystery. Fans are already speculating—will she leave Gibbs? Will something tragic happen to her? The showrunners have a difficult decision to make.
Keeping Fans Happy While Telling a New Story
Balancing Nostalgia and Fresh Storytelling
NCIS fans are deeply invested in Gibbs’ backstory, so the writers have to make sure that NCIS: Origins respects what’s come before while still bringing something new to the table.
Addressing Fan Expectations
Die-hard NCIS fans have strong opinions about Gibbs’ past. Some may love the idea of Lala, while others might see her as unnecessary. The challenge for the writers is making sure the story feels earned.
The Future of Gibbs & Lala’s Storyline
How Long Will Lala Be a Part of the Show?
Since Lala isn’t a known figure in the NCIS timeline, her presence in NCIS: Origins has a built-in expiration date. The question is: how long will she be around before her story reaches its conclusion?
Will We See Hints of Lala in Future NCIS Seasons?
Even though Lala has never been mentioned in NCIS, could NCIS: Origins leave subtle breadcrumbs that connect back to the original series? It would be an interesting way to tie everything together.
