🕵️ Introduction: The NCIS Character Everyone Forgot — But Shouldn’t Have
Over the years, NCIS has introduced dozens of characters — some unforgettable, others quietly forgotten. But as NCIS: Origins gears up for its highly anticipated Season 2, one overlooked character could be heading for a long-overdue return… if CBS chooses to stay faithful to the series’ established canon.
So, who is this mysterious character from Gibbs’ past? And why could they suddenly become central to the Origins story arc?
Let’s connect the dots.
NCIS: Origins — What We Know So Far
 Recapping Origins Season 1
Season 1 of NCIS: Origins gave fans a rare look at a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, before he became the stoic, coffee-loving legend we know. With Austin Stowell in the lead and Mark Harmon narrating the tale, the series dove into Gibbs’ early years as a young agent in the NIS (Naval Investigative Service) — back when he was still learning the ropes.
The show brilliantly balanced nostalgic nods to NCIS lore with fresh characters and Cold War-era intrigue. But there’s still a lot of ground to cover.
Why Season 2 Is a Game-Changer
Season 2 has the chance to deepen the canon and answer long-standing questions fans have had for years. And that’s where a certain “forgotten” character might finally get their spotlight.
 Who Is the Forgotten NCIS Character?
 Enter Special Agent Vera Strickland
If you’re a hardcore NCIS fan, you may remember Special Agent Vera Strickland, portrayed by Roma Maffia, who made a brief appearance in NCIS Season 11, Episode 2 (“Past, Present, and Future”).
She was introduced as one of Gibbs’ earliest partners — a no-nonsense, sharp-tongued investigator who clearly shared a deep professional history with him.
 Why She Matters
Though her appearance was short, Strickland offered a rare glimpse into Gibbs’ early days. She cracked jokes about his “silent treatment,” hinted at field missions they worked together, and made it clear they went way back — before DiNozzo, Kate, and even Mike Franks.
If NCIS: Origins is digging into Gibbs’ first years, Strickland is canonically supposed to be there.
 The Canon Connection — Why This Lines Up Perfectly
 The Timeline Syncs with Origins
Strickland’s dialogue in Season 11 makes it clear she served with Gibbs early in his career — right around the timeline where Origins is set. That means Strickland should logically appear in Season 2, assuming CBS chooses to honor the established NCIS continuity.
More Than a Cameo
There’s rich potential here. Instead of a one-episode cameo, Origins could develop a younger Strickland as a main or recurring character — possibly serving as Gibbs’ partner or rival during his formative years.
 Why Bringing Back Strickland Is a Brilliant Move
 Adds Depth to Gibbs’ Origin Story
Let’s face it — Gibbs didn’t become Gibbs overnight. By reintroducing someone who shaped him professionally, Originscan show fans how he became the leader we know today.
Strickland’s character offers the perfect contrast to a young, impulsive Gibbs — older, sarcastic, and already jaded by the system.
Nostalgia Meets New Energy
Bringing Strickland back bridges old-school NCIS with the fresh Origins series. Longtime fans get rewarded with deep-cut callbacks, while new viewers enjoy dynamic storytelling.
Casting a Young Vera Strickland — Who Could Play Her?
 What to Look for in Casting
The right actress to play young Strickland would need grit, sharp wit, and a commanding screen presence. Think of someone who can keep Gibbs in check without trying too hard.
 Fan Favorites for the Role
Online chatter has tossed around names like:
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Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black) — versatile and intense
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Michelle Dockery (Downton Abbey) — cool, collected, with bite
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Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine) — sarcastic and badass
None are confirmed, but speculation’s already heating up.
Fan Reaction to the Possibility
Reddit and X/Twitter Are Already Talking
When rumors started swirling about deeper dives into Gibbs’ early years, some fans were quick to ask: “Where’s Strickland?” A few sharp-eyed Reddit users even pulled screenshots from Season 11 to support their theories.
 The Fan Demand Is Real
There’s a clear appetite for more backstory from Gibbs’ earliest partners — and Strickland, being canon, is a top contender. She’s not just a new face; she’s a missing piece of the puzzle.
 How This Impacts the Future of NCIS Canon
 Solidifying the Timeline
By introducing Strickland into Origins, CBS can create a more unified, consistent NCIS timeline — one that honors past seasons while expanding the story.
 It Opens Doors for Other Forgotten Characters
If Strickland makes a comeback, who’s next? Young Mike Franks? A young version of Jackson Gibbs (Gibbs’ dad)? Even characters like Fornell or a young Leon Vance could enter the scene if done carefully.
Will CBS Stick to the Canon?
The Franchise’s Track Record
While NCIS generally sticks to its continuity, there have been a few minor timeline wobbles. Still, the writers have consistently shown respect for fan-favorite characters and the long-established lore.
So chances are high they’ll remember Strickland’s place in Gibbs’ past — especially with the fans calling for it.
 It’s a Canon Moment Waiting to Happen
Ignoring Strickland would be a missed opportunity. Including her? That’s smart storytelling — and a love letter to die-hard fans.
Conclusion: Strickland Deserves Her Origin Story Too
Special Agent Vera Strickland may not be a household NCIS name, but she’s one of those rare characters who stuck with fans long after her one-time appearance. With NCIS: Origins exploring Gibbs’ early career, Season 2 is the perfect time to reintroduce her and give her the character arc she deserves.
And let’s be real — watching a younger Gibbs square off with a veteran like Strickland? That’s TV gold.
âť“ 5 Unique FAQs
Q1: Who is Special Agent Vera Strickland in NCIS?
She’s a retired NCIS agent who appeared in Season 11 and was revealed to be one of Gibbs’ early partners.
Q2: Could Strickland appear in NCIS: Origins Season 2?
Absolutely. Based on canon and timeline, she logically fits into Gibbs’ early years, which Origins is exploring.
Q3: Why was Strickland only in one episode?
Her appearance was part of a flashback and tribute arc, but the character had more depth than the show explored at the time.
Q4: Has CBS confirmed her return?
Not yet — but fan speculation and story potential make it a real possibility.
Q5: Would bringing her back affect NCIS continuity?
Not at all. In fact, it would enhance the existing canon by filling in important details from Gibbs’ past.
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Thanks for reading! If this story sparked your memory or made you miss the old NCIS days, share it with fellow fans and let CBS know — it’s time to bring Strickland back. Sometimes, the forgotten pieces are the ones that complete the puzzle.
