Introduction – The NCIS Universe Goes Global
The NCIS franchise just made another bold move — and this time, it’s international. The highly anticipated prequel series, NCIS: Origins, is officially heading to Germany thanks to a new licensing agreement. German audiences will be able to stream the series on Joyn and catch episodes on Sat.1, one of the country’s leading free-to-air TV channels.
This marks a significant step in the franchise’s global strategy — and fans in Germany are in for something special.
What Is NCIS: Origins?
A Fresh Take on the Iconic Franchise
NCIS: Origins dives deep into the backstory of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the tough-as-nails team leader played by Mark Harmon in the original series. Set in the early 1990s, it explores how a young Gibbs found his footing at NCIS and grew into the leader fans came to love over two decades.
Mark Harmon Returns — Sort Of
Though Mark Harmon won’t appear on-screen, he’s not far from the action. He serves as executive producer and narrator, adding his familiar voice and legacy to the new project.
Why Germany? Why Now?
A Market Ready for Premium Drama
Germany has consistently shown a strong appetite for high-quality procedural dramas. With the success of American shows like NCIS, CSI, and Criminal Minds in syndication, the German audience is primed for a fresh take on a beloved franchise.
Strategic Content Expansion for CBS Studios
By sealing a licensing deal with Joyn and Sat.1, CBS Studios is making a strategic move to grow its international footprint — and Germany is a lucrative market for premium serialized content.
Understanding the Joyn and Sat.1 Partnership
Joyn – Germany’s Rising Streaming Star
Joyn, a joint venture by ProSiebenSat.1 and Discovery, is fast becoming a go-to platform for both local and international content. Offering a mix of free and premium subscription options, Joyn makes it easy for viewers to catch up on major series at their convenience.
Sat.1 – A Trusted Name in Entertainment
As one of Germany’s oldest and most established TV networks, Sat.1 brings wide national reach. Airing NCIS: Originson this platform ensures that even viewers who prefer traditional TV will have access to the series.
What the Licensing Deal Includes
Streaming and Broadcast Rights
The licensing deal reportedly gives exclusive German broadcast rights to Sat.1 and streaming access to Joyn, allowing the series to reach a broad audience through both modern and traditional formats.
Potential for Simultaneous Releases
While exact dates haven’t been revealed, industry insiders suggest that both platforms could offer NCIS: Origins around the same time as its U.S. premiere, depending on localization needs.
What to Expect from NCIS: Origins
Characters from the Franchise’s Roots
The show will introduce younger versions of familiar faces from the original NCIS universe, along with a host of new characters designed to enrich Gibbs’ early years.
Austin Stowell as Young Gibbs
Taking on the iconic role is Austin Stowell, a rising actor known for his intensity and emotional depth. Early reviews suggest he’s up to the challenge of stepping into Gibbs’ boots.
A New Viewing Experience for German Fans
Subbed or Dubbed – Multiple Viewing Options
Fans in Germany will likely have the choice between German-dubbed audio and the original English version with subtitles, depending on the platform.
A Gateway to the NCIS Universe
New viewers unfamiliar with the long-running main series will find Origins to be a great starting point. It’s a standalone prequel that doesn’t require prior knowledge, yet adds depth for seasoned fans.
Why This Is a Big Deal for International TV
American Franchises Going Local
This deal reflects a broader trend: U.S. studios are now localizing premium content for international markets through smart partnerships, creating more global hits.
A Template for Future NCIS Expansions
If successful in Germany, CBS may look at other major markets like the UK, France, or Australia for similar deals, extending the NCIS brand even further.
Reactions from German Fans
Social Media Buzz Begins
Since the announcement, Twitter, Reddit, and fan pages have lit up with excitement. NCIS fans in Germany are particularly eager to see young Gibbs in action.
Anticipation for a New Kind of NCIS
Many longtime viewers are hopeful that NCIS: Origins will offer a deeper emotional tone and less formulaic storytelling than later seasons of the main show.
Behind-the-Scenes Highlights
Top-Tier Production Quality
The series is produced by CBS Studios, promising high cinematic quality, impressive set design, and compelling writing that matches — or even surpasses — the original.
A Period Piece Done Right
Expect to see 1990s tech, fashion, and references — all crafted with authenticity to immerse viewers in Gibbs’ formative era.
When Will NCIS: Origins Premiere in Germany?
Estimated Release Window
Though a firm date hasn’t been announced, industry insiders suggest a late 2025 or early 2026 release in Germany — soon after the U.S. debut.
Localization and Marketing Underway
Translation, dubbing, and promotion are already in progress. Expect teaser trailers and local ads to begin rolling out months in advance.
What CBS and Joyn Should Do Next
Lean Into Fan Engagement
Releasing behind-the-scenes footage, interactive content, and cast interviews could supercharge interest — especially if tailored to German audiences.
Consider Exclusive Events
A fan screening event or Q&A panel in Germany would be a brilliant marketing move to drive media buzz.
Conclusion – NCIS Expands Its Legacy
With NCIS: Origins heading to Germany via Sat.1 and Joyn, CBS is making a clear statement: the NCIS universe isn’t slowing down — it’s evolving. This new chapter will not only reveal the past of one of television’s most beloved characters but will also solidify the franchise’s global presence.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering NCIS, Origins offers a fresh, emotionally charged, and thrilling look at the story before the story. And now, German fans won’t have to wait long to be part of that journey.
🙋♀️ FAQs
1. Will NCIS: Origins be available with English audio in Germany?
Most likely yes, especially on Joyn, which typically offers both original and dubbed versions.
2. Is this the first NCIS series to be licensed to Germany?
No — the original NCIS has aired in Germany for years, but Origins marks a new kind of international release strategy.
3. Who plays the young Gibbs in the prequel?
