The latest installment, NCIS: Origins, has introduced several fresh faces into the beloved NCIS universe, but it also brings back important figures that fans have grown to love over the years. Set in 1991, this prequel dives deep into the backstory of one of the most iconic characters: Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Mark Harmon played Gibbs for nearly two decades on the flagship series, right up until season 19 when he made his departure. In this new series, Austin Stowell takes on a younger Gibbs, sharing his early experiences at the agency.
Within the NCIS: Origins storyline, characters familiar to Gibbs’ past have resurfaced, including five prominent faces. New additions to the cast are Randy (Caleb Martin Foote) and Lala Dominguez (Mariel Molino), who are not mentioned in the flagship series but significantly impact Gibbs’ early career at NIS. Other integral characters, like Mary Jo (Tyla Abercrumbie) and Cliff Wheeler (Patrick Fischler), strengthen the story’s foundations, while the return of well-known characters gives the prequel its essential connection to the original series.
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Leroy Jethro Gibbs
Mark Harmon
Leading the charge is none other than Leroy Jethro Gibbs himself, reintroduced through Austin Stowell, while Mark Harmon narrates the older Gibbs’ journey. Though there are physical differences between the two actors, Stowell successfully emulates Harmon’s trademark mannerisms and characteristics.
Under Stowell’s portrayal, NCIS: Origins season 1 rejuvenates Gibbs’ narrative from 1991, revisiting key flashbacks, unveiling untold stories, and deepening crucial connections, such as his bond with Michael Franks.
While the flagship series had previously delved into a younger Gibbs, it did not feature Mark Harmon’s son, Sean Harmon, in this role. Instead, Stowell takes on the character, allowing NCIS: Origins to reinterpret Gibbs’ journey through vital flashbacks and new revelations, particularly regarding his relationship with Mike Franks.
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Mike Franks
Muse Watson
Special Agent Michael “Mike” Franks, another key character in NCIS: Origins, is wonderfully portrayed by Kyle Schmid. In the flagship series, Mike is established as Gibbs’ mentor in season three, played originally by Muse Watson. Watson made his memorable mark as Gibbs’ mentor, even appearing in pivotal moments that awaken Gibbs from significant lapses in memory.
Franks’ crucial presence is solidified through his appearances, especially during moments that enhance the bond between him and Gibbs. The season 11 episode of NCIS: Origins does an excellent job of probing into Franks’ backstory, staying true to the show’s overall theme.
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Vera Strickland
Roma Maffia
Special Agent Vera Strickland, yet another character reimagined in NCIS: Origins, is played by Diany Rodriguez. Though she appeared only once in the flagship series, Roma Maffia made an impactful debut in season 11. Strickland came into our lives amidst a major transition for the show following Cote de Pablo’s exit as Ziva David, just as she was nearing retirement.
Catch Roma Maffia in her portrayal of Special Agent Vera Strickland in NCIS season 11, episode 3, “Under the Radar,” available on Paramount+.
In her initial appearance, Vera Strickland teamed up with Special Agent Tony DiNozzo after Timothy McGee temporarily lost his credentials, establishing herself as a significant part of Gibbs’ early days at NCIS. Furthermore, NCIS later confirmed that Vera was Mike Franks’ final partner, which aligns perfectly with the narrative of NCIS: Origins.
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Tobias Fornell
Joe Spano
Only making a fleeting appearance in the prequel, NCIS: Origins has still managed to flesh out a younger interpretation of FBI agent Tobias Fornell. Joe Spano brilliantly brought this character to life in over 50 episodes of the flagship series, marking his presence in some of the most pivotal moments.
Given his extensive history, it felt natural for the prequel to explore a younger Fornell, potentially addressing some longstanding discrepancies in NCIS lore. A prime example lies in the pilot episode, where Fornell initially appears to lack recognition of Gibbs despite their clearly established history.
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Pedro Hernandez
Thomas Rosales Jr.
Finally, it was crucial to integrate the character of Pedro Hernandez, as portrayed by Thomas Rosales Jr., into this prequel narrative. Pedro plays a pivotal role in the tragic backstory of Gibbs’ family. He was responsible for the deaths of Gibbs’ wife and daughter while they were under federal protection, an event that profoundly shaped Gibbs as a character.
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Thomas Rosales Jr.’s NCIS Appearances As Pedro Hernandez |
Synopsis |
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NCIS season 3, episode 23, “Hiatus (Part I)” |
In a flashback to Mexico, Gibbs confronts and kills the man responsible for his family’s murder. |
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NCIS season 9, episode 14, “Life Before His Eyes” |
Gibbs hallucinates about Pedro Hernandez while in a critical state, reflecting on his past experiences. |
This exploration of Gibbs’ backstory, including the harrowing events involving Pedro Hernandez, is pivotal for NCIS: Origins. The prequel dives into the emotional depths of Gibbs’ character, recreating impactful flashbacks that resonate with fans and further enrich the narrative of NCIS: Origins.
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