In a powerful episode of CBS’s “NCIS: Origins,” actor Kyle Schmid brings Mike Franks’ complex veteran experience to life, exploring the challenging transition from military service to civilian life.
The episode, titled “Monsoon,” intertwines two timelines: a present-day investigation into a veteran’s murder and flashbacks to Franks’ life in the 1980s. The narrative highlights the struggles veterans face after returning from war, offering viewers a deeply personal look at one character’s transformative journey.
Schmid portrays Franks as a different man from his later iconic persona – sporting long hair and an unkempt beard. The story centers on his relationship with Tish, played by Tonantzin Carmelo, who becomes a crucial support in his post-war recovery. Their connection begins with a chance encounter when Franks helps her with a flat tire, leading to a pivotal moment where she gives him the haircut that defines his future appearance.
“If it wasn’t for Tish, Mike most likely would have been Tom Molina,” Schmid told TheWrap, emphasizing the episode’s core message about community support and accepting help during difficult times.
The present-day storyline follows the NIS team investigating a crime wave targeting homeless individuals. The murder of a veteran forces Franks to confront his own past experiences, creating tension and emotional depth in the narrative.
Schmid praised the production team’s attention to historical detail, describing the filming as “a wild circus of people who come together to make the bright light sparkle.” The episode builds on previous explorations of Franks’ background, including Episode 11’s look at his draft into the Vietnam War.
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The episode doesn’t shy away from the psychological impact of war, showing the emotional separation between Franks and Tish. Schmid hints at further developments in Episode 15, where “things come full circle” and viewers will see the lengths Franks goes to in closing this chapter of his life.
“NCIS: Origins” continues to air Mondays at 10 p.m. ET/PT on CBS, with episodes available for streaming on Paramount+ the following day.
