The NCIS franchise continues to thrive, celebrating over 1,000 episodes and more than two decades of success. This fall, it will expand even further with the debut of a highly anticipated spinoff: NCIS: Origins. This prequel series, set in 1991, will explore the early years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, a character famously portrayed by Mark Harmon. Harmon is not only serving as an executive producer and narrator for the series but also played a crucial role in casting his younger self.
Austin Stowell, who will take on the challenging role of a young Gibbs, faces the daunting task of stepping into the shoes of a beloved character. It’s no small feat to portray a character as iconic as Gibbs, and Stowell’s portrayal will undoubtedly be under close scrutiny by long-time fans. During a Television Critics Association panel, Stowell revealed the advice Mark Harmon gave him, which, while brief, was profoundly impactful.
Stowell shared that Harmon’s advice was succinct yet pivotal: “Be yourself.” In the context of taking on such a well-established role, Harmon’s guidance emphasizes the importance of authenticity and staying true to one’s own interpretation of the character, rather than trying to mimic the established portrayal too closely.
As NCIS: Origins delves into the formative years of Gibbs, viewers can expect to see a different side of the character they know so well. The prequel promises to offer fresh insights into Gibbs’ background, revealing aspects of his personality and experiences that have shaped the iconic agent fans have come to love.
With Harmon’s endorsement and Stowell’s dedication, NCIS: Origins is poised to add a new and exciting chapter to the NCIS universe, giving fans both a nostalgic look back and a deeper understanding of one of the franchise’s most enduring characters.
