The NCIS franchise continues its impressive run with over 1,000 episodes spanning more than two decades, and it’s set to expand even further with a new spinoff this fall on the 2024 TV schedule. The latest addition to the NCIS universe is a prequel series titled NCIS: Origins, which will delve into the backstory of the iconic character Leroy Jethro Gibbs, famously portrayed by Mark Harmon.
In this prequel, set in 1991, fans will get a fresh perspective on Gibbs, portrayed as a young agent by Austin Stowell. Taking on the role of a character so deeply associated with Harmon is no small feat, but Stowell is up for the challenge. Harmon, who is also serving as an executive producer and narrator for the series, had some memorable advice for Stowell.
During a Television Critics Association panel, Stowell shared that Harmon’s guidance was succinct but profoundly impactful. Harmon’s advice to Stowell was just two words: “Be yourself.”
This brief yet significant piece of wisdom underscores the importance of authenticity when stepping into the shoes of a well-loved character. For Stowell, this means bringing his own interpretation to Gibbs while honoring the essence of the character that Harmon made famous. As NCIS: Origins explores Gibbs’s early career, fans can look forward to seeing how Stowell’s portrayal will add depth to the already rich legacy of Leroy Jethro Gibbs.
