Mark Harmon, best known for playing Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs on NCIS for nearly two decades, is stepping behind the camera as an executive producer and narrator for the upcoming NCIS prequel, NCIS: Origins. The spin-off series will star Austin Stowell as a younger version of Gibbs, set in 1991 during his early years as a rookie NCIS agent. Harmon is providing support and guidance to the new cast members, allowing them to feel supported and confident in their roles.
NCIS: Origins will delve deeper into Gibbs’ backstory and personal history, showing him in rough shape as he grieves the loss of his wife and child. Stowell highlighted the theme of loss in the series, suggesting that it has cracked Gibbs to his core. The prequel will feature popular locations from the original NCIS series, including Camp Pendleton and Daley’s Tavern, providing fans with a familiar setting. Harmon portrayed Gibbs for 18 years before his exit from the original series in 2021.
Stowell expressed his excitement about working on the Paramount lot, where the series is being filmed. Despite feeling nervous at times, he felt confident in his ability to portray the character. NCIS: Origins was ordered by CBS for the 2024-2025 broadcast season, following Gibbs as he starts his career at the NCIS Camp Pendleton office with a team led by NCIS legend Mike Franks. The series is set to premiere on CBS on Monday, October 14, at 10 p.m. ET.
Harmon emphasized that his role in the prequel is to assist the new cast members and share his knowledge and experience from being on the show for many years. He praised Stowell for his dedication to the role and ability to embody a younger version of Gibbs. The prequel will offer fans a fresh perspective on the beloved character, exploring his early years as an agent and the challenges he faces.
NCIS: Origins promises to provide insight into the formative years of Gibbs and his journey to becoming the iconic agent fans know and love. The series will showcase his determination, resilience, and ability to overcome personal tragedies as he forges his path within the NCIS organization. With Harmon’s guidance and Stowell’s talent, the prequel is expected to capture the essence of the original series while offering a new angle on Gibbs’ character development. Fans can look forward to seeing a different side of their favorite agent in this exciting new chapter of the NCIS universe.
