The latest NCIS spinoff, NCIS: Origins, dives into the backstory of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, focusing on his early days in military law enforcement. Since it’s an origin story, Mark Harmon couldn’t reprise the role, so the series cast Austin Stowell as young Gibbs. As executive producer, Harmon played a major role in selecting Stowell and seems thrilled with the choice.
Mark Harmon on Casting for NCIS: Origins Mark Harmon, still a key creative force in the NCIS franchise, took part in casting and storyline development for Origins. Reflecting on the casting process, Harmon shared his excitement: “We’re happy with the cast,” he told Parade. “Austin is a good kid and a nice actor. I think back to all those weeks in casting offices, and we couldn’t be happier with this cast.”
Harmon also hinted at the evolution to come, drawing comparisons to the original NCIS, where “huge changes” shaped the show’s first few seasons. He noted that Origins will have its own journey and development, including Gibbs’s signature “Rules.” Harmon explained, “The intent was to have fun with those, and there’s so many,” adding that showrunners David North and Gina Lucita Monreal are excited to explore them.
Mark Harmon on Narrating NCIS: Origins While fans won’t see Harmon as Gibbs onscreen, they can still hear his familiar voice. After a brief cameo in the pilot, Harmon serves as the series narrator, guiding viewers through Gibbs’s early story. “That’s been fun,” Harmon shared. “Some episodes I don’t have much to do, while others, I have a boatload. It’s about putting words to a character who traditionally said a lot with very little.”
Unlike Young Sheldon, which only revealed in its finale that the narration was for Sheldon Cooper’s book, NCIS: Origins made Harmon’s narration central from the start. The series opens with present-day Gibbs working on a journal while fishing, clearly setting up the story as a reflection on his past.
How do you feel about Austin Stowell stepping into the role of young Gibbs? Do you enjoy hearing Mark Harmon narrate the series? Share your thoughts in the comments!
