Fans Celebrate Dynamic Duo on NCIS: Origins
Austin Stowell and Kyle Schmid have captivated audiences as the young versions of Leroy Jethro Gibbs (originally portrayed by Mark Harmon) and Mike Franks (originally played by Muse Watson) in NCIS: Origins, the CBS spin-off. Airing Mondays at 10 p.m., the November 25 episode had fans buzzing over the duo’s standout performances.
Set during Gibbs’ early days with the Naval Investigative Service at Camp Pendleton, the series offers an intriguing glimpse into his formative years. Episode seven showcased a fresh angle on Gibbs and Franks’ dynamic, leaving viewers enthralled.
CBS Studios shared fan reactions on Instagram, highlighting the excitement. One post featured a photo of the pair alongside a comment: “Love this show & the cast is so good. The young Gibbs & Franks are knocking it out of the park. The narration by Mark Harmon is the bow on this gift of a series.” Another exclaimed: “Young Gibbs and Franks are the NCIS duo we never knew we needed!”
Praise poured in for the casting and storytelling. A fan remarked: “Origins reminds me of the good old days of NCIS…the writing is phenomenal!!” Another shared: “I don’t think they could have done any better for the actor playing Franks. So loving watching them grow together as a team.” One more chimed in: “I am really liking the cast! I like the ’90s setting also! I think we have a hit!”
Austin Stowell told TV Insider that they prioritized the expectations of long-time fans while filming. He reflected: “I feel like it is our duty to pay homage to the show that was on for 20 years before us, especially with a moment as big as this. This is everything to Gibbs—what he believes will unlock the key to solving himself and unraveling all these knots inside him.”
With its compelling storytelling and stellar cast, NCIS: Origins continues to win over fans old and new.
