NCIS: Origins Cast – Meet the Actors Playing Young Gibbs, Mike Franks, and Vera Strickland in the Prequel
The NCIS universe is expanding with NCIS: Origins, a highly anticipated prequel that dives into the early days of Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Fans are eager to know who will step into the shoes of younger versions of iconic characters like Gibbs, Mike Franks, and Vera Strickland. Let’s break down the NCIS: Origins cast and what they bring to the table.
Who Is Playing Young Gibbs in NCIS: Origins?
The role of a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs is a tough one to fill, given Mark Harmon’s legendary performance over two decades. However, the prequel has found the perfect actor to take on the challenge.
Austin Stowell as Young Leroy Jethro Gibbs
Austin Stowell, known for roles in Whiplash, Bridge of Spies, and Secret Headquarters, has been cast as the younger version of Gibbs. With his strong screen presence and ability to convey intensity, Stowell seems like the ideal choice to show Gibbs’ early days as a young Marine and budding NCIS agent.
Who Plays Young Mike Franks in NCIS: Origins?
Mike Franks, Gibbs’ tough mentor, is a fan-favorite character, originally played by Muse Watson. His younger counterpart will be just as rough around the edges and determined to bring justice.
Kyle Schmid as Young Mike Franks
Kyle Schmid, known for Six, Big Sky, and Copper, is set to take on the role of a young Mike Franks. His rugged charm and experience in military roles make him a fantastic pick to portray Franks as a no-nonsense NCIS agent in the making.
Who Is Playing Vera Strickland in NCIS: Origins?
Vera Strickland, a character briefly introduced in NCIS Season 11 as a retired NCIS agent, will have a bigger presence in the prequel.
Mariel Molino as Young Vera Strickland
Mariel Molino, known for Promised Land and The Watchful Eye, will play a younger version of Vera. This casting hints that Strickland will have a much deeper connection to Gibbs’ origin story than previously explored.
How Does NCIS: Origins Fit Into the NCIS Timeline?
Setting the Stage for the Prequel
NCIS: Origins is set in the early 1990s, a time before Gibbs became the NCIS leader we know today. It explores his transition from a Marine sniper to an NCIS agent and how he was shaped by mentors like Mike Franks.
A Look at Gibbs’ Early Career
Fans will finally see Gibbs learning the ropes as a young recruit, facing dangerous cases, and forming relationships that influence his future leadership style.
More Key Cast Members in NCIS: Origins
While the main trio has been revealed, there are several other important roles in the prequel.
Mark Harmon’s Involvement
Even though Harmon won’t be playing Gibbs onscreen, he remains deeply involved as an executive producer and narrator.
Other NCIS Agents and Characters
- The cast will also feature additional NCIS agents, Marine Corps personnel, and characters from Gibbs’ past.
- Recurring figures like Ducky Mallard or Tom Morrow could potentially appear in younger versions.
What Fans Can Expect from the Prequel?
A Different Side of Gibbs
We’re used to seeing Gibbs as the stoic, experienced leader. NCIS: Origins will explore his more impulsive, fiery side as a young agent learning the ropes.
More Action and 90s Nostalgia
Expect a throwback to the early ’90s with classic crime-solving techniques, old-school investigative methods, and the rise of NCIS as an agency.
A Closer Look at Gibbs’ Rulebook
Will NCIS: Origins finally show us how Gibbs came up with his famous set of rules? Fans are hoping the prequel explores this side of his character.
Why This Cast Works for NCIS: Origins
Perfectly Matched to the Originals
Each actor cast in NCIS: Origins not only resembles their older counterpart but also captures their mannerisms and personality.
Bringing New Energy to Familiar Characters
A fresh cast allows NCIS fans to see familiar faces in a whole new light while still maintaining the essence of the original characters.
Expanding the NCIS Universe
The prequel will introduce new characters and untold stories, making NCIS richer and more expansive.
Final Thoughts on NCIS: Origins Cast
The cast of NCIS: Origins is shaping up to be one of the best prequel ensembles in recent TV history. With Austin Stowell as Gibbs, Kyle Schmid as Mike Franks, and Mariel Molino as Vera Strickland, fans can expect a thrilling deep dive into Gibbs’ past.
As the NCIS franchise continues to grow, NCIS: Origins has the potential to become a must-watch for both long-time fans and new viewers alike.
FAQs
1. When will NCIS: Origins premiere?
CBS has not announced an official release date yet, but the show is expected to debut in 2025.
2. Will Mark Harmon appear as Gibbs in NCIS: Origins?
No, Mark Harmon will not appear as Gibbs onscreen, but he will serve as the show’s narrator and executive producer.
3. Will other NCIS characters appear in the prequel?
It’s possible. Young versions of characters like Ducky Mallard or Tom Morrow could make appearances, depending on how the storyline unfolds.
4. How does NCIS: Origins connect to the main NCIS series?
The prequel explores Gibbs’ early years, showing how he became the leader fans know in NCIS. It will fill in gaps about his past relationships and career choices.
5. Where can I watch NCIS: Origins?
The show will air on CBS and be available for streaming on Paramount+.
