When a franchise like NCIS has such a rich history and extensive backstory, it can be challenging to keep all the details consistent, especially when creating a prequel series. Often, it’s the dedicated fans who spot potential plot holes that the writers might overlook. However, with the upcoming NCIS: Origins series, fans can rest assured that one of the known plot discrepancies will be addressed.
The premise of NCIS: Origins is well known: A young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by Austin Stowell, joins the Naval Investigative Service (NIS)—the precursor to NCIS—at Camp Pendleton in the 1990s. The series will follow Gibbs shortly after the tragic loss of his wife, Shannon, and daughter, Kelly. While Mark Harmon, who originally portrayed Gibbs, won’t star in the prequel, he will serve as the show’s narrator.
A potential plot hole arises with the character of Gibbs’ father, Jackson. In the original NCIS series, Gibbs and Jackson, played by Ralph Waite, reconnect after years of estrangement, seemingly since Shannon’s and Kelly’s funerals. However, in NCIS: Origins, Jackson will be portrayed by Robert Taylor and have a more active role in Gibbs’ life. Co-showrunner David North addressed this concern in an interview with TVLine, assuring fans that they are mindful of the show’s established canon. “We did solve it,” North explained, emphasizing that Jackson’s presence will be carefully integrated into the story. “Jackson is an important role, and we’ll see his influence on Gibbs.”
Whether Jackson’s appearances in the prequel will be through flashbacks or direct involvement remains unclear. Additionally, fans can look forward to seeing another significant mentor in Gibbs’ life—Mike Franks. Played by Kyle Schmid in NCIS: Origins, Franks was a crucial figure in Gibbs’ early career, originally portrayed by Muse Watson in the main series.
The prequel will also explore Gibbs’ “probie” (rookie) years alongside a new cast of characters, including Mariel Molino as Special Agent Lala Dominguez, Diany Rodriguez as Special Agent Vera Strickland, Tyla Abercrumbie as Field Operation Support Officer Mary Jo Hayes, and Caleb Foote as Special Agent Benjamin “Randy” Randolf. While it may be a while before we see a younger version of Jenny Shepard, portrayed by Lauren Holly in the original series, NCIS: Origins will lay the groundwork for the iconic characters and relationships that define Gibbs’ future.
NCIS: Origins premieres on October 14 on CBS. Fans can catch up on the original series now on Paramount+ before delving into Gibbs’ backstory.
