Fans of the NCIS universe know that Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs carries more than just a stoic glare—he’s defined by trademarks like the head slap, tones of bourbon, and ritualistic behaviors. Showrunners Gina Lucita Monreal and David J. North just confirmed that NCIS: Origins Season 2 will include another iconic Gibbs tradition fans have only seen in the original series—or heard about in flashbacks.
Origins Season 2 Is Officially Confirmed
Renewal, Premiere Date & Narrative Direction
CBS renewed NCIS: Origins in February 2025 ahead of its Season 1 finale. The prequel is set to return in Fall 2025, airing on Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET, nestled between NCIS Season 23 and NCIS: Sydney Season 3. Co-showrunners Monreal and North affirmed that Gibbs’ evolution continues—complete with classic hallmarks like his moral code, wit, and team rituals. Screen Rant+15People.com+15Screen Rant+15
What Gibbs Trademark Is Making Its Origins Debut?
The Hint of the Head Slap (Possibly)
While specifics remain under wraps, the creative team teased that a beloved Gibbs ritual—long established in the flagship series—will finally appear in its formative years. It could very likely be his signature “head slap”, which was first mentioned as existing in his earlier career. This marks the first time the tradition is shown rather than referenced.
Canon Matters—Origins Menu of Authenticity
Timeline Accuracy & Franchise Respect
Monreal stressed that the writers maintain a rigorous timeline to ensure continuity across the NCIS franchise. They’re committed to honoring every piece of established lore—even if it means bending canon sparingly. As she said:
“We have a big, huge timeline in the writers room, and we’re really strict about sticking to it… all the things that we’re seeing in canon, we will address one way or another.” Screen Rant+2SoapCentral+2Cinemablend+2
Memo to Fans—The Fed 5 and Other Beloved Easter Eggs
Fed 5 Formation & Franchise Crossovers
Season 2 will dive deeper into Gibbs’ early connections—especially the formation of the Fed 5, the ensemble that included Gibbs, Mike Franks, Dwayne Pride, Felix Betts, and Dan McLane. This team was originally introduced in NCIS Season 11’s “Crescent City”. Origins will depict the birth of that unit during Gibbs’ probationary years.EW.com+11Cinemablend+11Screen Rant+11
Deeper Character Arcs for Gibbs and Co.
Leadership Evolution & Complexity
Co-showrunner David J. North teased that Season 2 will track Gibbs inching past the “probie” stage and gradually taking charge of investigations and team dynamics—mirroring his original arc in NCIS.Collider+6Cinemablend+6Cinemablend+6
Mike Franks, Lala & Family Secrets
Season 2 will delve into Mike Franks’ backstory, including the introduction of his brother Mason—a storyline inspired by a single line from the original series. Their reunion promises to expand Franks’ emotional landscape. We’ll also see more of Gibbs’ connection with Lala Dominguez, which co-showrunners confirmed would be explored more deeply.Cinemablend
Will Mark Harmon Return Onscreen?
Narration Continues — On-Screen Appearances Possible
Mark Harmon returned briefly in Season 1’s pilot and continues to narrate every episode. According to David J. North, as long as Mark is willing, his voice—and potentially his on-screen presence—could return in future episodes.
Why This Kind of Content Is Exactly What Fans Wanted
Merging Emotional Depth With Easter Eggs
Fans love a procedural, but they live for moments that thread together decades of character history. Seeing a young Gibbs enact a behavior fans only knew him by—as well as revisiting key franchise events—gives Origins both emotional resonance and insider joy.
Putting It All Together—Season 2 Overview
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Gibbs trademark tradition debuts in early form
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Fed 5 origins explored
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Franks’ brother Mason appears
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Deeper emotional and leadership arcs emerge
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Harmony between campfire narration and 90s Gibbs experience
Final Thoughts — A Season of Heritage and Discovery
With a heightened focus on canon, emotional storylines, and fan-beloved rituals, NCIS: Origins Season 2 is shaping up to be a soulful expansion of the Gibbs legend. Showrunners promise authenticity and subtle surprises, making it a rare treat for longtime NCIS devotees.
5 Unique FAQs
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Will we finally see Gibbs’ head slap in Origins?
While not confirmed, showrunners hinted that a classic Gibbs trademark—likely the head slap—will debut in flashback form. -
When does NCIS: Origins Season 2 premiere?
It’s expected to launch in Fall 2025, airing Mondays or Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on CBS. -
Will Mark Harmon return as Gibbs on screen?
He appeared briefly in Season 1 and continues to narrate. The showrunners haven’t ruled out future on-screen appearances. -
Who is Mike Franks’ brother, and why does he matter?
Mason Franks, previously only mentioned, will appear in Season 2—revealing deeper emotional layers and loyalty tests. -
How will Season 2 connect to NCIS franchise continuity?
By tightly adhering to a detailed timeline and incorporating major events like the formation of the Fed 5, the writers anchor Origins in established canon.
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Thanks for exploring the untold stories of Gibbs’ early career with me! Origins Season 2 is looking like a love letter to longtime fans—eager to honor the past while planting new seeds for what’s to come.
