The upcoming NCIS spinoff has the potential to deepen the series’ longstanding mysteries, possibly taking the show in an even more intense direction.
For years, NCIS has skillfully maintained an air of mystery around its key characters, particularly Leroy Jethro Gibbs, whose enigmatic habits have fueled countless fan theories. Gibbs, a central figure since his debut in 2003, left fans puzzled with his quirky habit that neither he nor the show ever explained. This long-standing enigma was finally addressed only after Gibbs had officially left the series.
One of Gibbs’ most perplexing habits was his apparent disregard for locking his front door, a quirk that seemed to invite potential danger. This issue remained unresolved throughout the series, leaving fans speculating until the franchise’s new podcast shed light on it.
The podcast, “Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch,” hosted by NCIS actors Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo, recently featured Sean Murray, who plays Special Agent Timothy McGee. During the discussion, Cote de Pablo brought up Gibbs’ unusual habit, prompting a revelation. She explained that Gibbs’ indifference to securing his home stemmed from his profound personal loss: the murder of his first wife, Shannon, and their daughter, Kelly. This tragic event, occurring early in Gibbs’ career and not fully explored in the original series, revealed that Gibbs no longer prioritized his own safety after losing what he valued most.
This poignant explanation not only clarifies Gibbs’ behavior but also suggests that NCIS: Origins, the upcoming spinoff set to air on CBS this fall, might delve into this backstory. The new series will explore Gibbs’ early years as an NCIS Special Agent, potentially offering a deeper look into how the trauma of losing his family shaped his character.
While revealing more details about Gibbs’ greatest loss might be heartbreaking for fans, it promises to provide a compelling narrative that explains his transformation and deepens our understanding of his complex character.