· Tara Price · Trending
NCIS: Origins – Everything You Need to Know About the Hit Prequel Series
Got a soft spot for Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs?
Since 14 October 2024, CBS has been taking viewers back to 1991 with NCIS: Origins, revealing how one of television’s most beloved characters earned his stripes.
Now ten episodes in, the series has proved itself more than just another franchise extension – it’s a compelling drama that’s winning over critics and audiences alike.
When and Where to Watch NCIS: Origins
The series premiered on Monday, 14 October 2024, with the two-part ‘Enter Sandman’, drawing over 5 million viewers.
Now airing Mondays at 22:00 ET/PT on CBS, Origins has maintained strong ratings, averaging 3.5-4 million viewers per episode.
According to Nielsen data, when including DVR playback, total viewership regularly exceeds 6 million.
For streaming viewers, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME offers live access, whilst Paramount+ Essential subscribers can watch episodes the following day.
NCIS: Origins: The Cast Breathing Life into 1991
Austin Stowell leads the ensemble as young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, crafting a performance that honours Mark Harmon’s iconic portrayal while adding youthful intensity.
Stowell’s take on Gibbs feels both familiar and fresh – you can see the foundations of the character we know whilst watching him develop his famous gut instinct.
The supporting cast has become equally compelling:
- Kyle Schmid embodies Mike Franks as a proud Texan who practically lives in his cowboy boots. His perfectly coiffed moustache and unwavering moral compass have made him a fan favourite
- Mariel Molino brings complexity to Special Agent Lala Dominguez, a former Marine whose dark humour masks deeper struggles
- Diany Rodriguez portrays Special Agent Vera Strickland as a sharp-witted Brooklynite who never minces words
- Tyla Abercrumbie’s Mary Jo Sullivan has emerged as the office’s backbone, her ‘Head Secretary in Charge’ title belying her crucial role
- Robert Taylor captures Jackson Gibbs’ essence whilst making the role his own
Notable recurring cast includes:
- Caleb Foote as Special Agent ‘Randy’ Randolf, the team’s golden boy
- Daniel Bellomy as ‘Granny’ Dawson, an ambitious probationary agent
- Patrick Fischler as SAC Cliff Wheeler, bringing tension as the office head
- Bobby Moynihan and Lori Petty as the forensic team, adding welcome levity
NCIS: Origins Plot Developments and Standout Episodes
Set in 1991 at Camp Pendleton’s fledgling NCIS office, the series follows Gibbs as he processes personal tragedy whilst learning the investigative ropes.
Mark Harmon’s narration provides poignant insight into young Gibbs’ mindset.
Key episodes:
- ‘Enter Sandman’ (Episodes 1-2): The two-part premiere established the show’s tone whilst introducing the core team
- ‘Bend, Don’t Break’ (Episode 3): A breakthrough episode for Stowell’s Gibbs
- ‘Last Rites’ (Episode 5): Delivered emotional depth whilst solving a complex case
- ‘Vivo o Muerto’ (Episode 9): A tense investigation revealing more about Franks’ backstory
Behind the Scenes
The series originated from Sean Harmon, who previously played young Gibbs in NCIS flashbacks.
Working alongside his father Mark as executive producers, they partnered with NCIS veterans David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal as showrunners.
Filming takes place at Fort MacArthur in San Pedro, where production designers have meticulously recreated 1991 Camp Pendleton.
From period-accurate office technology to authentic Naval investigative procedures, the attention to detail creates an immersive experience.
Critical Reception and Future
The show currently holds an 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its balance of procedural elements and character development.
Particular acclaim has gone to the chemistry between Stowell and Schmid, and the series’ exploration of Gibbs’ formative years.
With ‘Flight of Icarus’ and ‘Touchstones’ still to come in early 2025, Origins continues building momentum.
Its success has already begun to spark discussions about a potential second series.
The NCIS Universe Expands
As the sixth series in the franchise (joining NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, NCIS: Hawai’i, and NCIS: Sydney), Origins demonstrates the enduring appeal of this universe.
By focusing on character development whilst maintaining the procedural elements fans love, it’s carving its own identity whilst enriching the broader NCIS mythology.
