Just when NCIS: Origins fans had emotionally accepted the tragic loss of Lala, the fan-favorite character played by Caleb Martin Foote, a new twist has emerged: she might not be gone after all. (Yes, she. We’ll explain.)
In a recent behind-the-scenes post and cryptic interview comments, an NCIS: Origins cast member has sparked serious speculation that Lala will make a shocking return in Season 2—despite what appeared to be a definitive ending in Season 1.
Let’s dig into the hints, the fan theories, and whether this “return from the dead” twist could be exactly what Season 2 needs.
The Tease That Started It All
A Photo Worth a Thousand Theories
Caleb Martin Foote recently shared a new behind-the-scenes image on Instagram, showing a familiar costume rack labeled “Lala – S2”, with a caption that simply read: “Not done yet.”
Fans were instantly thrown into a frenzy. Was this a flashback? A dream sequence? Or something much, much bigger?
Was Lala Ever Really Dead?
Let’s rewind. The end of Season 1 left fans devastated as it heavily implied Lala died—possibly off-screen—during a military operation that changed Gibbs forever. While we never saw the body, the emotional fallout said enough.
Or did it?
The NCIS Rule of Death: “If You Don’t See the Body…”
Veteran NCIS fans know this rule well: if you don’t see the body, the character probably isn’t dead. We’ve seen it with Ziva, Fornell, and even Gibbs himself.
Lala’s “death” followed this exact formula—emotional, vague, and full of wiggle room.
What Caleb Martin Foote Has Actually Said
In a recent interview at a press junket, Foote was asked about Lala’s legacy. His response?
“Let’s just say… Lala’s story isn’t quite finished. Sometimes presence goes beyond physical appearances.”
That sounds like a yes to us.
How Could Lala Return in Season 2?
Flashbacks
The most obvious—and likely—route is through flashbacks. If Lala played a formative role in Gibbs’ emotional growth, revisiting their shared past makes sense, especially if new details about her fate are being revealed.
Dream Sequences or Visions
Gibbs has been known to talk to people he’s lost (see: Mike Franks). Lala could return in visions, advice scenes, or as an emotional guidepost in tough moments.
She Never Died in the First Place
Here’s where things get wild. Some fans believe Lala never actually died. Maybe she went undercover. Maybe her “death” was staged to protect someone. It’s NCIS—this isn’t that far-fetched.
Clues from the Writers’ Room
A few months ago, NCIS: Origins showrunner Gina Monreal teased that “Season 2 will challenge everything fans think they know about loyalty, legacy, and loss.” That certainly opens the door for a surprise return.
She also added:
“Characters can live on in many ways. Some stories just need time to be fully told.”
Sounds like Lala’s getting more than a few flashback cameos.
What Would Lala’s Return Mean for Gibbs?
Closure or Chaos?
If Lala reappears, expect serious emotional fallout for young Gibbs. Whether it’s seeing her in flashbacks or confronting a staged death, it could be the most powerful storyline of the season.
Fan Theories Are Exploding
Across Reddit and TikTok, theories include:
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Lala was recruited by an early intelligence group and faked her death.
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She’s in hiding due to a mission gone wrong.
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Gibbs misremembered the event due to trauma—and she survived.
Even crazier: Some fans think Lala might be connected to someone in the larger NCIS timeline (a parent? sibling? secret mentor?).
Could Lala Return and Then Actually Die?
It’s entirely possible we’ll get both: a return and a permanent goodbye. Maybe Season 2 will explore the truth behind her disappearance, only to confirm her final fate by the end.
If that’s the case, get your tissues ready—again.
How Social Media Reacted
When the BTS photo dropped, Twitter/X lit up:
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“NO WAY SHE’S BACK. I’M NOT EMOTIONALLY READY.”
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“If Lala returns, I want an entire episode just for her.”
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“Called it! She’s too iconic to kill off that easily.”
The buzz has officially resurrected Lala’s storyline in the fandom’s collective consciousness.
Could Lala Be Tied to Future NCIS Plotlines?
Some fans think the groundwork is being laid for a retroactive connection to the main NCIS universe. Could an older character we already know have a hidden link to Lala?
Imagine if Lala’s teachings are what inspired one of Gibbs’ rules. That would give her serious legacy points.
What Lala’s Return Could Do for the Show
Boost Emotional Depth
More Lala means more insight into young Gibbs’ psyche. Their bond was one of Season 1’s best surprises, and audiences want more of it.
Open Up the Narrative
Lala returning could lead to new conflicts, secrets, or missions that expand the world of NCIS: Origins. And let’s face it—this show needs a twist that big to maintain momentum.
What to Watch For in Upcoming Trailers
Keep an eye out for:
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Flashback scenes in new locations
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Shots of characters reacting to unexpected news
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Any mention of “unfinished business” or “she’s alive”
Because let’s be honest—CBS loves to tease.
Conclusion: Dead Doesn’t Always Mean Gone in NCIS
Whether she’s alive, appearing in flashbacks, or returning through memory alone, one thing’s clear: Lala’s story isn’t over. And if this new BTS image is any indication, she may be the emotional core of NCIS: Origins Season 2.
So don’t count her out just yet. In the world of NCIS, death is never the end—it’s just the beginning of a bigger story.
❓FAQs
Q1: Is Lala officially returning in Season 2 of NCIS: Origins?
Not confirmed yet, but BTS photos and actor comments strongly hint at her appearance in some form—flashback, dream, or otherwise.
Q2: Didn’t Lala die in Season 1?
It was heavily implied, but no body was shown, and the exact details of her fate remain vague—leaving room for her return.
Q3: What role will Lala play in Season 2 if she returns?
Possibly as a flashback character, emotional guide for Gibbs, or even in a twist where she faked her death.
Q4: Could Lala still be alive in the present NCIS timeline?
Unlikely, but not impossible. There’s still plenty we don’t know about her background or connections.
Q5: When will NCIS: Origins Season 2 premiere?
The official date hasn’t been released, but it’s expected sometime in 2026 as filming is currently underway.
Thanks for reading! For more deep dives, theories, and exclusive NCIS updates, stick with us. This mystery is far from over—and Lala’s story is just heating up.
