The highly anticipated origin story of Leroy Jethro Gibbs premiered on CBS with a two-part episode of “NCIS: Origins,” developed by veteran writers Gina Lucita Monreal and David J. North. In a nostalgic nod to fans, Mark Harmon returned to narrate the series and appeared in reflective scenes as Gibbs journals about his past.
The show follows a young Gibbs, portrayed by Austin Stowell, as he embarks on his career as a special agent with the NIS at Camp Pendleton. The creators aim to appeal to both long-time fans and newcomers, striking a balance in storytelling while revealing elements of Gibbs’s character, including his past struggles and relationships.
Monreal and North discussed various aspects of the show, including Gibbs’s interaction with his father, Jackson, and the insights into Gibbs’s character that fans may not be fully aware of. They highlighted the complexity of characters like Mike Franks, portrayed by a younger actor, and the shift from NIS to NCIS following a restructuring in 1992, which serves to set the show in a different context.
The narrative tone is expected to be darker and edgier while still maintaining moments of humor. The plot structure will delve deeply into character development, making it largely serialized despite featuring weekly cases. The investigative approach reflects a more conventional and traditional method compared to the modern-day NCIS, emphasizing the challenges and resourcefulness of the time period.
As for Mark Harmon’s involvement, the writers expressed that while he is protective of the character, he trusts their vision for the series. They aim to respect the established fan base while ensuring a compelling and authentic story. The potential for romance in Gibbs’s life remains a possibility, despite the character’s personal struggles.