Introduction: A Legacy in the Making
When you think of NCIS, one name immediately stands out: Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Played by the legendary Mark Harmon, Gibbs became more than just a fictional character—he became a TV icon. With the launch of NCIS: Origins, fans have been gifted the opportunity to witness the younger version of this mysterious Marine-turned-agent, portrayed by Austin Stowell. And now, NCIS: Origins Season 2 is set to dive even deeper.
According to the showrunner, another one of Gibbs’ famous trademarks will debut in Season 2—and it’s something longtime fans will recognize in a heartbeat.
Let’s break it all down and explore what this means for the future of the NCIS franchise.
What Is ‘NCIS: Origins’ All About?
A Prequel Like No Other
Unlike typical spin-offs, NCIS: Origins takes a more character-driven approach. Set in the early 1990s, it explores how a young Gibbs, freshly recruited by Mike Franks, transforms into the disciplined, no-nonsense agent we know today.
Young Gibbs Finds His Footing
Austin Stowell plays Gibbs in a way that feels fresh but still deeply connected to the character’s core. It’s a rare prequel that honors the past while carving its own path forward.
Why Gibbs’ Trademarks Matter So Much
A Man of Habits
Gibbs has always been a man of very specific habits—whether it’s his famous head slaps, boat-building hobby, coffee addiction, or his own “rules” for life and work. These trademarks are more than quirks—they’re storytelling tools.
Character Through Consistency
Each signature trait helps define Gibbs. Fans don’t just remember what he says—they remember how he says it, what he does after a case, how he reacts under pressure. These are the breadcrumbs that built a legendary character.
Season 1 Recap: The Rise of Young Gibbs
Setting the Foundation
Season 1 gave us an early look at Gibbs’ entry into NCIS (then known as NIS). We saw his first steps into the criminal investigation world and his early bond with Mike Franks.
A Gritty Backdrop
The tone was darker and more serious than the flagship NCIS series—perfect for exploring a war veteran’s transformation into a leader.
Hints of the Man He’ll Become
We got the early glimpses of Gibbs’ silent intensity, his sense of justice, and his developing moral compass. But fans were hungry for more: more signs of the Gibbs they’ve watched for decades.
Confirmed: A New Gibbs Trademark Emerges
Showrunner Teases Another Iconic Habit
In a recent interview, the NCIS: Origins showrunner confirmed that Season 2 will officially introduce another one of Gibbs’ classic trademarks. Though they’ve kept details under wraps, insiders suggest it’s “instantly recognizable” and “fan-favorite material.”
What Could It Be? The Theories Begin
Fans are already speculating. Could it be:
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The birth of Gibbs’ Rules?
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The first head slap?
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His signature stare?
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The obsession with black coffee?
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A mysterious boat project in his garage?
Each of these has shaped Gibbs’ legacy—and seeing them begin is like watching a superhero put on the cape for the first time.
Gibbs’ Rules: Will Season 2 Unveil the First One?
Rule #1: Never Let Suspects Sit Together
This could easily be the first rule introduced. These rules became synonymous with Gibbs’ leadership style.
How the Rules Humanize Him
These aren’t just catchy lines—they reveal how Gibbs processes the world. Introducing the first rule in Origins would be a pivotal moment in his development.
The Coffee Obsession: Dark Roast or Character Development?
A Cup of Character
Gibbs and his coffee are inseparable. Could Season 2 be where it all begins?
Why It Matters
It’s the little details like this that ground a character. If Gibbs starts developing this coffee obsession early on, it could act as a metaphor for his need for control and routine.
The First Head Slap? A Signature Moment
Not Just for Comedy
Though it started as a humorous bit, the infamous head slap between Gibbs and DiNozzo became a symbol of mentorship, discipline, and tough love.
Could We See It Begin With Mike Franks?
It would be poetic if the origin of the head slap came from Mike Franks, passing it down like a badge of honor.
The Boat Building: Will It Appear?
Hands-on Healing
Gibbs’ boat-building isn’t just a hobby—it’s therapy. It’s how he processes trauma, thinks through cases, and finds peace.
Setting the Stage
Season 2 might show the seeds of this habit—maybe a scene where he begins sketching out a design or working with wood for the first time.
Austin Stowell on Becoming Gibbs
The Pressure of Playing a Legend
Stowell has acknowledged the heavy expectations that come with portraying a younger version of a beloved character.
Stowell’s Transformation Process
He’s worked hard to study Gibbs’ posture, tone, and presence. With each episode, he grows more into the role—and this new trademark could be his defining moment.
Mike Franks’ Role in Shaping Gibbs
Mentorship With a Bite
Franks is not just a mentor—he’s the hammer that forges the steel. Season 2 will likely show how he helps Gibbs adopt and shape these habits.
Legacy Through Actions
The way Franks teaches, guides, and corrects Gibbs could directly inspire the mannerisms and rules Gibbs will later become known for.
Fan Expectations for Season 2
What Audiences Want to See
Long-time NCIS fans crave connection. They want to see how the quiet intensity of older Gibbs began. This new trademark is the breadcrumb they’ve been waiting for.
Emotional Depth and Familiarity
Every habit or signature move that pops up is like a memory coming to life in reverse. It’s nostalgic and deeply satisfying.
Why These Trademarks Are Smart Storytelling
Nods to the Original Without Overreliance
By slowly revealing these character traits, the writers smartly bridge the gap between past and present. It’s fan service with purpose.
It Builds the Mythos
Like Batman’s gadgets or Indiana Jones’ whip, Gibbs’ traits are essential to his mythos. Seeing them come to life adds weight to the prequel.
Will Season 2 Live Up to the Hype?
Signs Point to Yes
With this new Gibbs trademark on the horizon and a deeper dive into his psyche, Season 2 promises to elevate the stakes.
What We’re Hoping For
More character development. More connections to NCIS lore. And more reasons to fall in love with Gibbs all over again.
