Introduction: The Origins of a Problem
NCIS: Origins was hyped as the fresh blood in the NCIS universe—promising a deep dive into the early years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs. But after a strong debut, the ratings have been on a noticeable slide. With franchise fatigue looming and competition fierce, fans and execs are watching closely.
So what’s going wrong—and more importantly, how can NCIS: Origins turn things around before it’s too late?
Here are 5 critical things the show needs to do to stop the ratings drop and win over both longtime NCIS fans and new viewers.
**1. Focus on Character Depth Over Easter Eggs
Let’s be real: nostalgia is great—but it can only carry a series so far. NCIS: Origins leaned hard on throwbacks to classic Gibbs lore, but viewers want more than just winks and nods. We need:
-
Emotional complexity from young Gibbs
-
Rich backstories for the supporting cast
-
Real, human moments that go beyond references
Instead of telling us why Gibbs is iconic, the show should show us the formative experiences that shaped him.
**2. Make the Storylines Riskier and Less Predictable
One of the biggest complaints about the current NCIS formula? It’s become too safe. Origins has a chance to shake things up—so why play it by the book?
What we need:
-
Darker, more serialized arcs
-
Morally gray decisions that show a younger Gibbs isn’t fully molded yet
-
Unexpected deaths or betrayals to keep tension high
The show should lean into its ‘origin’ status by letting things get messy—narratively and emotionally.
**3. Develop a Strong, Distinct Ensemble Cast
Right now, Origins feels like “Young Gibbs and Everyone Else.” But the NCIS franchise has always thrived on team chemistry. Think: DiNozzo’s sarcasm, Abby’s energy, McGee’s awkwardness.
If Origins wants to last, it needs:
-
Memorable, multi-dimensional team members
-
A balance of humor, skill, and personality
-
Characters we can grow with over multiple seasons
Make us care about them outside of how they relate to Gibbs.
**4. Modernize the Visual and Narrative Style
For a prequel, Origins looks… a lot like old NCIS. Visually, it’s dated. Narratively, it’s flat. Today’s audiences are used to the pace and punch of shows like Reacher, Jack Ryan, or even The Bear.
What needs to change:
-
Cinematography that feels cinematic, not cable
-
Smarter, tighter dialogue that doesn’t rely on clichés
-
Music and editing that reflect a younger, edgier tone
Just because it’s set in the past doesn’t mean it has to feel like it aired in 2005.
**5. Bridge the Gap to the Core NCIS Universe—But on Its Own Terms
Right now, Origins is walking a weird line—trying to stand on its own while constantly nodding at the original. The key? Tying into NCIS canon, but only when it serves the story.
Here’s how to strike that balance:
-
Introduce young versions of beloved characters sparingly
-
Create moments that mirror future Gibbs without being fanservice
-
Build its own mythology that can one day feed into other spinoffs
If Origins wants to survive, it needs to evolve into a pillar, not a shadow.
Conclusion: It’s Not Too Late for NCIS: Origins
NCIS: Origins has potential—no doubt. The character of Gibbs is one of the strongest in television history, and fans want to love this show. But the window to fix the trajectory is closing. Viewers are savvy, and attention spans are shorter than ever.
By dialing in on character, pacing, risk, and emotional depth, Origins can rewrite its own future. Otherwise, it risks being just another prequel that never lived up to its legacy.
FAQs
1. Why are the ratings for NCIS: Origins dropping?
Viewers cite slow pacing, weak side characters, and over-reliance on nostalgia as key reasons for tuning out.
2. Is Mark Harmon involved in NCIS: Origins?
Yes, he narrates as older Gibbs and serves as an executive producer—but he doesn’t appear on screen.
3. Will we see younger versions of original NCIS characters?
That’s possible, but producers have hinted they’ll avoid heavy fan service in favor of new characters.
4. How many episodes are planned for Season 1?
Season 1 is expected to have 10–13 episodes, though that may change based on performance.
5. Can Origins be saved if ratings don’t improve?
It’s possible if midseason reviews turn around. Streaming metrics, DVR replays, and global syndication will also influence renewal chances.
Custom Message:
Thanks for reading! Whether you’re an NCIS day-one fan or new to the world of Gibbs, we’d love to hear your thoughts. What do you think Origins needs to fix? Let’s talk TV—without pulling a Gibbs Rule #6 (never apologize; it’s a sign of weakness).
