Introduction: Unveiling the Complex Characters of ‘NCIS: Origins’
The world of NCIS: Origins has captivated audiences with its intricate plotlines and well-developed characters. Among the many compelling relationships, one that has caught the attention of viewers is the bond between Franks (played by Muse Watson) and Mary Jo (portrayed by Kyle Schmid). In a recent interview, Schmid opened up about the emotional depth of his character, how Mary Jo serves as an angelic presence on Franks’ shoulder, and the nuanced dynamic between her and Tish. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes these relationships so significant.
The Role of Mary Jo: Franks’ Angel on His Shoulder
Who Is Mary Jo?
In NCIS: Origins, Mary Jo isn’t just a secondary character; she plays a pivotal role in Franks’ emotional journey. As an important figure in his life, she acts as a guiding force, almost like an angel, constantly providing him with the moral compass he desperately needs. For Franks, who has lived a life filled with tough decisions, guilt, and loss, Mary Jo’s presence offers him a sense of calm and clarity, even in his darkest moments.
Kyle Schmid’s Take on Mary Jo
Kyle Schmid, who brings Mary Jo to life, has spoken about the nuances of playing such a vital character. He described her as a grounding force for Franks, someone who helps him find his way back to his values, even when he’s faced with the harshest situations. Mary Jo is not just a voice of reason—she’s also a reminder of the love and humanity Franks still has inside him, despite his tough exterior.
Mary Jo’s Angelic Presence
When Schmid refers to Mary Jo as Franks’ “angel on his shoulder,” he emphasizes the role she plays as a source of comfort and strength. Mary Jo isn’t physically present in every scene with Franks, but her influence lingers in his decisions and actions. Her advice, even in absentia, shapes his choices and keeps him aligned with his moral compass. Schmid reflects on how Mary Jo represents hope for Franks, reminding him that despite everything, there is still good in the world—and in him.
Tish and Mary Jo: A Complicated Relationship
Who Is Tish in the Story?
Tish, another key character in NCIS: Origins, is the woman who complicates Mary Jo’s relationship with Franks. While Mary Jo offers Franks emotional support, Tish represents a different side of his life—one filled with tension, emotional struggle, and unresolved issues. This makes Tish’s role in Franks’ life crucial to understanding his inner conflicts.
The Tension Between Tish and Mary Jo
The relationship between Tish and Mary Jo is far from straightforward. While Mary Jo serves as a stabilizing force, Tish’s presence in Franks’ life stirs up unresolved emotions and complicates matters. There’s an undeniable sense of friction between these two women, as each tries to navigate her role in Franks’ complicated world. Schmid touched on how Mary Jo’s and Tish’s contrasting personalities contribute to the emotional turbulence Franks experiences.
Schmid’s Insights on the Mary Jo-Tish Dynamic
In his interview, Schmid explained that the dynamic between Mary Jo and Tish is both tense and fascinating. The two characters bring out different sides of Franks, and their relationships with him are marked by deep emotional undercurrents. Mary Jo, with her steady and calm demeanor, contrasts sharply with Tish’s fiery presence. This contrast not only affects Franks but also fuels the tension between the two women, making their interactions intriguing for the viewers.
Franks’ Emotional Growth Through Mary Jo and Tish
Mary Jo as a Catalyst for Change
Mary Jo’s influence on Franks is profound. As an emotional anchor, she plays a key role in helping him confront his past and move forward. Schmid describes how, through his character’s interactions with Mary Jo, Franks experiences moments of vulnerability and growth. Mary Jo’s role, while subtle, is transformative—she enables Franks to access a side of himself that he may have otherwise ignored or suppressed.
The Complexity of Franks’ Feelings
Franks is a man of few words, and much of his emotional journey is conveyed through his actions rather than dialogue. Schmid notes that this makes his relationship with Mary Jo even more significant. Their connection allows Franks to express himself in ways he typically avoids. It’s in these quieter, more intimate moments that Mary Jo’s angelic role truly shines. Her guidance doesn’t force Franks to change, but it encourages him to look at himself from a different perspective, helping him confront personal demons and embrace the possibility of redemption.
Kyle Schmid’s Approach to Playing Mary Jo
Diving into the Character of Mary Jo
As an actor, Kyle Schmid has always gravitated toward roles that challenge him emotionally. Playing Mary Jo in NCIS: Origins was no different. Schmid discusses how he approached the character with a sense of respect for her complexity. He didn’t want Mary Jo to be just a simple supporting character—he wanted her to have depth, to be more than just a “sidekick” to Franks.
The Emotional Weight of Playing an Angelic Role
Playing the role of an “angel on the shoulder” is no easy feat. Schmid admits that it took time to balance the softer, nurturing side of Mary Jo with the moments of strength and wisdom she conveys to Franks. According to Schmid, playing such a character requires a delicate balance of vulnerability and resolve, which is something he worked hard to portray.
How ‘NCIS: Origins’ Builds Compelling Relationships
The Power of Character Development
One of the reasons why NCIS: Origins stands out is its focus on character development. The show doesn’t just rely on action-packed plots or clever dialogue—it takes the time to delve into the emotional lives of its characters. Mary Jo and Tish’s relationships with Franks add layers to his story, turning his journey from a typical action hero into a deeply human exploration of grief, love, and redemption.
Relationship Dynamics as Storytelling Tools
The relationships in NCIS: Origins, especially those involving Franks, are central to the show’s storytelling. They serve as emotional anchors that draw viewers into the world of the characters. By exploring the dynamics between Mary Jo, Tish, and Franks, the show demonstrates the power of relationships in shaping a person’s actions and decisions.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Mary Jo and Tish on Franks’ Journey
In NCIS: Origins, Kyle Schmid’s portrayal of Mary Jo as Franks’ emotional guide adds a unique layer to the character of Franks. Mary Jo’s angelic presence provides him with the strength and guidance he needs, while her relationship with Tish adds an element of complexity and tension to the narrative. Franks’ growth as a character is deeply influenced by these two women, making their roles essential to the story.
Schmid’s insightful comments about his role as Mary Jo reveal how deeply he understands the character’s impact on Franks. Mary Jo is more than just a side character—she’s a pivotal figure in his emotional evolution. As NCIS: Origins continues to explore the dynamics between Franks, Mary Jo, and Tish, viewers can expect more emotional depth and nuanced storytelling.
5 Unique FAQs About Mary Jo, Tish, and Franks in ‘NCIS: Origins’
1. Who is Mary Jo in NCIS: Origins? Mary Jo is a key character in NCIS: Origins who serves as an emotional anchor for Franks. She acts as a guiding force and moral compass for him, helping him navigate his complex emotions.
2. What role does Tish play in Franks’ life? Tish represents a contrasting emotional influence to Mary Jo. Her relationship with Franks is filled with tension and unresolved feelings, creating an intriguing dynamic between her and Mary Jo.
3. How does Kyle Schmid portray Mary Jo’s angelic presence? Kyle Schmid plays Mary Jo as a calming and stabilizing force in Franks’ life. Her influence helps him confront his past and move toward emotional growth, even when she’s not physically present.
4. Why is the relationship between Mary Jo and Tish important in the show? The dynamic between Mary Jo and Tish adds depth to the narrative, highlighting Franks’ internal conflicts and the complexities of his emotional life.
5. What makes NCIS: Origins stand out in terms of character relationships? The show emphasizes character development, allowing the relationships between Franks, Mary Jo, and Tish to drive the emotional core of the story. These interactions provide a humanizing element that resonates with viewers.
