NCIS: ORIGINS showrunner Mark D. Cross is offering fans a glimpse into the highly anticipated prequel series, which explores the early career of a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Set at Camp Pendleton, the show will chart Gibbs’ journey as he begins his career with the Naval Investigative Service.
As the first NCIS show set in the past, NCIS: ORIGINS promises to reveal new dimensions of Gibbs’ character and backstory. “Fans don’t know as much as they think they do,” Cross teased. “Seeing Gibbs on Day 1 at NIS and discovering how he became Gibbs will uncover a lot more to explore.”
Co-showrunner Gina Lucita Monreal highlighted that the series will delve into Gibbs’ relationship with Michael Franks, adding layers to Gibbs’ character not previously explored. “It gives Gibbs a different kind of shading than we’ve seen before,” Monreal said.
Mark Harmon, who originated the role of Gibbs, will contribute as an executive producer and narrator for the series. “I’m fine with taking a step back and letting the new cast shine,” Harmon told USA Today. “I’m pleased to support the show.”
Harmon and the team believe Austin Stowell is the perfect choice to portray young Gibbs. “Austin just was himself,” Harmon shared with Parade. “He lit up the room during auditions. Gina said, ‘That guy is a star,’ and I agree.”
Monreal praised Stowell’s ability to balance Gibbs’ brokenness with his inherent strength. “Austin captures that difficult balance exceptionally well,” she noted.
Stowell is enthusiastic about portraying a version of Gibbs still grappling with the loss of his wife and child. “This is a Gibbs who’s searching for his identity and trying to find his place in the world,” Stowell said. “It’s a new side of Gibbs, different from the strong, collected leader we know from NCIS.”
