With the premiere of NCIS: Origins just around the corner, the show’s creators have revealed in interesting detail about Mark Harmon’s involvement in the prequel series. Known for his iconic portrayal of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, Harmon will not only be narrating the series, but he’s also had a pivotal role to play behind the scenes. NCIS: Origins stars Austin Stowell as a younger version of Gibbs and is all set to deliver a fresh take on the character’s early years at NCIS.

Set in the 1990s, NCIS: Origins will follow the beginnings of Gibbs’ career as a Special Agent at NCIS’ Camp Pendleton office. It will explore the formative cases and experiences that shaped Gibbs into the person he’s become. Talking to TVLine about it, co-creator David J. North, who serves as showrunner with Gina Lucita Monreal, revealed that Harmon’s contribution to the show and his support to Stowell is invaluable.

“No. He’s as hands-on as we want him to be. [He] is there for us to talk through things, if Gina and I can’t come to a consensus on something. If we’re not sure which way to go, left or right at a fork in the road, and we need another opinion, he’s there for us. Mark’s not going to bulls–t you. And he’s certainly there for Austin [Stowell, who plays young Gibbs], which has been a huge thing and obviously is important to us.”

Gibbs’ Story Will Offer An Insightful Look Behind The Legend

The 1990s-set prequel not only aims to capture Gibbs in his early days but also adds a layer of intrigue and connection to the original NCIS series. In that, Gibbs will be working under Mike Franks, a seasoned agent keen on building a gritty and determined team of investigators. While he was played by Muse Watson in the main series, NCIS: Origins has cast Kyle Schmid for the role. North has also stated that Harmon’s narration will help viewers gain insight into what made the character evolve into the no-nonsense team leader we know and love. In addition to that, Harmon will also make a few on-screen appearances. As to why Gibbs is telling his story in the first place, the show creator revealed little.

“As far as how we’re getting this peek behind the curtain — meaning, in what way exactly is our beloved Gibbs telling us his story? — that will be answered on October 14th.”

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NCIS: Origins also promises to deliver substantive character moments. It will deviate from the traditional case-of-the-week format and provide a continuous narrative instead, one that dives into Gibbs’ personal life and backstory. This new approach is expected to breathe fresh life into the franchise, and it marks a significant growth for the NCIS universe.

Apart from Stowell and Schmid, the cast of NCIS: Origins includes Mariel Molino, Tyla Abercrumbie, Diany Rodriguez, Daniel Bellomy, Caleb Martin Foote, Robert Taylor, and more. Fans can look forward to the premiere on Monday, October 14, at 10 PM ET on CBS.

NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) focuses on the sometimes complex and always amusing dynamics of a team forced to work together in high-stress situations. Special Agent Alden Parker, a quirky former FBI agent who solves his cases with calm professionalism and sharp, sarcastic charm, leads the NCIS team.Release Date September 23, 2003 Creator(s) Donald P. Bellisario , Don McGill Seasons 22 Writers Donald P. Bellisario Network CBS Streaming Service(s) Paramount+ Showrunner Donald P. Bellisario Where To Watch Paramount+ Expand