The Legacy of Leroy Jethro Gibbs and the Torch Passing to Austin Stowell
When you think of NCIS, one name immediately comes to mind: Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Mark Harmon’s portrayal of the no-nonsense, rule-driven team leader became legendary, cementing Gibbs as one of television’s most iconic characters. So naturally, when CBS announced NCIS: Origins—a prequel series exploring Gibbs’ early years—the casting choice for a younger version of the character was crucial.
That’s where Austin Stowell stepped in. The co-showrunner of NCIS: Origins has finally explained why Stowell was chosen to succeed Mark Harmon in this new chapter, and his reasoning makes Season 2 all the more exciting.
Why Casting Young Gibbs Was Such a High-Stakes Decision
Let’s face it: replacing or even reimagining a beloved TV character is like walking on a tightrope. One wrong move, and the audience won’t buy in. Gibbs isn’t just a character—he’s the heart and soul of NCIS.
Mark Harmon brought decades of depth to Gibbs, giving him his signature stoicism, subtle humor, and unshakable moral code. Whoever followed him had to capture not just the look but the essence of Gibbs. That’s no small task.
Austin Stowell: More Than Just a Look-Alike
The co-showrunner explained that casting Austin Stowell wasn’t about finding someone who could simply mimic Mark Harmon. Instead, it was about finding an actor who could bring authenticity to Gibbs’ younger years while laying the groundwork for the man we already know and love.
Stowell didn’t just resemble Harmon; he had the presence, intensity, and emotional range to portray a Gibbs who was still evolving, still finding his way.
Balancing Familiarity and Freshness
One of the main challenges was ensuring young Gibbs felt recognizable yet new. Fans needed to see shades of Harmon’s Gibbs in Stowell’s performance but also witness growth and transformation.
Think of it like tracing the roots of a massive oak tree—you want to see how the tiny sapling eventually became the towering figure. That’s the beauty of Origins.
The Co-Showrunner’s Take: Why Stowell Was the Right Choice
According to the co-showrunner, Austin Stowell brought a “rawness” to the role that fit perfectly with the idea of a younger, less polished Gibbs. He wasn’t yet the stoic leader fans know; instead, he was still learning, still making mistakes, and still forming the principles that would later define him.
That blend of vulnerability and toughness was exactly what Origins needed.
Mark Harmon’s Subtle Influence Behind the Scenes
Let’s not forget, Mark Harmon isn’t completely gone from the NCIS universe. As an executive producer on Origins, his influence looms large. While he may not be onscreen, Harmon’s insight into who Gibbs is helped guide the casting process.
It’s safe to say that if Harmon signed off on Stowell, that speaks volumes about the casting decision.
Austin Stowell’s Acting Background and Why It Matters
Stowell isn’t a stranger to emotionally heavy roles. His performances in films and TV shows have often leaned into intensity, resilience, and vulnerability—qualities that translate perfectly into a young Gibbs navigating personal and professional turmoil.
His ability to balance grit with subtle emotional beats made him the perfect fit for the prequel’s tone.
How Fans Reacted to Stowell’s Gibbs in Season 1
Initial fan reactions were mixed—understandably so. Anytime a beloved character is recast, the fandom gets protective. But as Season 1 unfolded, viewers started to appreciate what Stowell was doing.
Instead of trying to be a carbon copy of Harmon, he leaned into his own strengths while respecting Gibbs’ established character. That approach resonated with long-time fans.
Why Season 2 Feels Like a Turning Point
Now that the groundwork has been laid in Season 1, Season 2 has the opportunity to dig deeper. Gibbs is no longer just a Marine with a complicated past—he’s beginning to take the steps that will eventually lead him to NCIS.
The co-showrunner hinted that Season 2 will allow Stowell to fully embrace the balance between the Gibbs we know and the Gibbs we’re still discovering.
The Importance of Chemistry with the Rest of the Cast
No character exists in a vacuum. Part of what made Harmon’s Gibbs so beloved was his dynamic with the rest of the team. Similarly, Stowell’s Gibbs had to click with the new characters introduced in Origins.
His on-screen chemistry with other cast members added depth to the storytelling, making the early years of Gibbs’ life feel authentic and layered.
How Austin Stowell’s Gibbs Differs From Harmon’s
The differences are subtle but meaningful. Harmon’s Gibbs was seasoned, guarded, and often unpredictable. Stowell’s Gibbs is younger, more open, and still wrestling with his demons in real time.
It’s like looking at two versions of the same painting: one finished and one still in progress. Both are valuable, but they tell different stories.
Why Fans Should Be Excited for Season 2
The co-showrunner’s comments suggest Season 2 will double down on what worked in the first season while expanding the scope of Gibbs’ story. We’ll likely see more connections to the NCIS universe, more nods to future Gibbs quirks, and deeper exploration of his backstory.
For fans who worried about whether Stowell could handle the responsibility of being Gibbs, Season 2 might be the moment that erases any lingering doubts.
The Broader Impact on the NCIS Franchise
Let’s not forget that NCIS is one of the longest-running franchises in television history. The success of Origins is crucial in keeping that legacy alive.
Casting Austin Stowell wasn’t just about Season 1—it was about ensuring the franchise could continue to grow while respecting its roots.
Could We See a Mark Harmon Cameo in the Future?
Fans can’t help but wonder: will Harmon ever return for a cameo or flash-forward in Origins? While nothing has been confirmed, the possibility hangs in the air. And if that ever happens, the symbolic passing of the torch between Harmon and Stowell would be unforgettable.
Conclusion: Stowell Is More Than Just a Replacement—He’s a Revelation
Casting Austin Stowell as young Gibbs wasn’t about replacing Mark Harmon. It was about expanding the story, giving fans a chance to see Gibbs in a new light while staying true to his core.
The co-showrunner’s explanation makes it clear: Stowell wasn’t just the right choice—he was the only choice. And if Season 1 laid the foundation, then Season 2 is where the house truly gets built.
FAQs
1. Who plays young Gibbs in NCIS: Origins?
Austin Stowell portrays young Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the prequel series.
2. Did Mark Harmon approve of Austin Stowell’s casting?
Yes, as an executive producer, Harmon played a role in shaping the character and supported the decision to cast Stowell.
3. How does Austin Stowell’s Gibbs differ from Mark Harmon’s?
Stowell’s Gibbs is younger, more raw, and still evolving, while Harmon’s Gibbs was the fully-formed, stoic leader fans already knew.
4. Will NCIS: Origins Season 2 connect more to the original NCIS?
According to the co-showrunner, Season 2 will explore more layers of Gibbs’ past, potentially tying into the established NCIS storyline.
5. Could Mark Harmon return in NCIS: Origins?
While not confirmed, many fans speculate a cameo or flash-forward could happen in future seasons.
