CBS is gearing up to expand its NCIS universe with the new prequel series, NCIS: Origins, focusing on the early life and career of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, originally portrayed by Mark Harmon. Following the unexpected cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i, the network is set to fill the gap with this new series, scheduled to debut in the upcoming television season.
NCIS: Origins, a first for the franchise, delves into the backstory of the iconic character, exploring Gibbs’ formative years in law enforcement. Set in the early 1990s, the series follows a young Gibbs as he begins his career at Camp Pendleton, shortly after the tragic deaths of his first wife, Shannon, and daughter, Kelly. This period also marks his early days working under Mike Franks’ team.
In a notable casting decision, Austin Stowell steps in to play the young Gibbs, replacing Sean Harmon, Mark Harmon’s son, who previously portrayed younger versions of the character in flashbacks on NCIS. Although Mark Harmon will not reprise his role on-screen, he remains integral to the series, serving as both narrator and co-executive producer alongside his son.
The promotional campaign for NCIS: Origins has commenced, with CBS unveiling the first official image of Austin Stowell as the youthful Gibbs during their upfront presentations. This new portrayal, however, has not been without its controversies. Fans quickly noticed discrepancies in Gibbs’ appearance, particularly his hairstyle. Known for his precise, short haircut—a reflection of his disciplined and unchanging nature—the character’s new look with significantly longer hair has sparked discussions among long-time fans.
Mark Harmon’s portrayal of Gibbs established him as a steadfast leader, a father figure, and the moral anchor of the NCIS team, with his specific personal rules and habits. The consistent depiction of his short, tidy haircut became a symbol of his integrity. As NCIS: Origins explores his earlier years, fans have expressed concerns that maintaining this iconic hairstyle would honor the character’s legacy. Should the series choose to deviate from this, providing a narrative justification for the change will be crucial to maintaining continuity and satisfying the dedicated fanbase.
NCIS: Origins is set to air on Mondays at 10 pm ET on CBS, taking over the time slot previously held by NCIS: Hawai’i. As the series prepares for its premiere, the production team’s reputation suggests that viewers should reserve judgment until they see how these changes play out on screen.
