A Prequel With Purpose
When NCIS: Origins was announced, longtime fans raised eyebrows. Could the origin story of Gibbs — played here by Austin Stowell — offer anything fresh? As it turns out, the series is doing more than filling in blanks. It’s revealing how Gibbs became Gibbs. And surprisingly, it’s not the protagonist who’s stealing the show — it’s the tone, structure, and deeply layered storytelling.
A New Way To See An Old Hero
Austin Stowell doesn’t try to impersonate Mark Harmon. He captures the stiffness, the intensity, and the emotional restraint that defines Gibbs, but he brings a rawness to the character — a version before the rules were written. Viewers are watching a man build the walls that would later define him.
The supporting cast is equally compelling. Special Agent Mike Franks (Kyle Schmid) is the fiery, unpredictable mentor we always heard about but never fully understood. Seeing their early bond grow is a treat, and it reframes everything we knew about their dynamic in the flagship series.
Origins Could Redefine NCIS Lore
Beyond character development, NCIS: Origins is subtly reshaping what fans thought they knew. The show is introducing deeper layers of political intrigue and Cold War-era tension. Even the early days of the NCIS agency itself — then still finding its footing — are being explored with unexpected richness.
If NCIS: Origins keeps balancing nostalgia with fresh storytelling, it could do more than ride on the coattails of the main show — it could become a critical part of the franchise’s identity. It’s not just a spin-off. It’s a slow-burning revelation.
