In a groundbreaking development for the eagerly anticipated NCIS prequel, “Origins,” the series has found its female lead to star alongside the young Leroy Jethro Gibbs.
Set to delve into Gibbs’ journey from 1991, just after the devastating loss of his first wife and child, the show will trace his beginnings at the NCIS Camp Pendleton office. Under the guidance of seasoned NCIS veteran Mike Franks, Gibbs embarks on his career in law enforcement.
According to reports from Deadline, Mariel Molino has been tapped to portray Special Agent Lala Dominguez, a character entirely new to the NCIS franchise. Dominguez is described as a former Marine equipped with a dark sense of humor, navigating the challenging and male-dominated environment of the era.
With Molino’s casting, “NCIS: Origins” promises to offer a fresh perspective on Gibbs’ formative years, introducing audiences to an intriguing new character who will undoubtedly leave her mark on the series.
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It is said that she and young Gibbs will have a storyline that is “filled with sparks” and set to feature plenty of mystery, twists and turns.
Austin Stowell was previously announced to be playing young Gibbs, while Mark Harmon will return to provide the narration and serve as an executive producer alongside his son Sean. They’ve also co-written the first episode.
“The character of Gibbs has been an important part of my life for 20 years, both in watching my father craft the role and previously having the honour to play young Gibbs myself,” Sean said.