A new prequel series to the popular NCIS franchise is in development. Titled “NCIS: Origins,” the show will tell the story of how one of NCIS’ most famous agents, Leroy Jethro Gibbs, got his start in law enforcement. Set in 1991, the series follows Gibbs on his first day as a rookie agent with what was then called the Naval Investigative Service (NIS). Viewers will see Gibbs learn the ropes of being an investigator and get a glimpse into his past that shaped him into the character fans know today.
The creator of the original Gibbs character, actor Mark Harmon, is executive producing the prequel series alongside his son Sean Harmon. Veteran NCIS showrunners David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal will also serve as executive producers. Actor Austin Stowell will take on the role of the younger Gibbs as he starts his law enforcement career. Stowell has studied Harmon’s iconic portrayal of the character to prepare.
“Origins” will explore Gibbs’ background including the tragic death of his wife and daughter just before he joins NIS. The series aims to tell a darker, more serious story compared to other NCIS shows as Gibbs develops his skills in his early days on the job. Gibbs will learn from veteran agent Mike Franks, played by Harmon in other NCIS entries. The showrunners said fans will see Gibbs’ character evolve from a new recruit into the formidable investigator they know.
While set in the same universe as popular NCIS spin-offs like NCIS: Los Angeles, the prequel plans to stand out with a serialized format rather than stand-alone episodes. Producers believe this will allow deeper character development and a continuous overarching narrative. Though “Origins” was created for the Paramount+ streaming service, it will now premiere on broadcast television. Showrunners aim to incorporate elements of serialized TV to differentiate it despite the platform change.
With the original NCIS still a major hit for CBS after 19 seasons, “Origins” looks to captivate new viewers with Gibbs’ origin story while delighting die-hard fans of the long-running franchise. It’s scheduled to join the network’s lineup for the 2024-25 television season.
