NCIS: Origins has quickly captivated audiences by diving deep into the backstory of the legendary Leroy Jethro Gibbs, one of the franchise’s most iconic characters. With Austin Stowell taking on the younger version of Gibbs—originally played by Mark Harmon—the show captures Gibbs’ character transformation with authenticity and emotional depth.
Episode 4, titled “All is Lost,” offers a standout storyline, following Gibbs as he investigates the case of a missing girl. This plot serves as a powerful link to Gibbs’ tragic personal history, evoking memories of losing his own daughter, Kelly, and his wife, Shannon, in a car accident. The flashbacks take viewers back to 1991, where a heartbroken Gibbs processes the devastating news while under enemy fire in Kuwait.
Co-showrunner Gina Lucita Monreal has teased that more flashbacks will continue to unveil how pivotal moments and personal tragedies shaped Gibbs’ driven and stoic personality. By exploring these moments, NCIS: Origins provides fresh insight into Gibbs’ core values and his leadership style. Even for newcomers, the show stands strong as a compelling introduction to the NCIS universe, offering a complex and all-consuming character study of Gibbs.
