“NCIS: Origins” has the potential to unravel numerous aspects of Mark Harmon’s beloved character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs, and address the longest-standing plot hole in his story. Years before meeting Kate Todd in “Yankee White,” Gibbs and his team were first introduced via a backdoor pilot in “JAG.” This origin story is often overlooked, given the massive success of the flagship “NCIS” series. Now, as the universe expands and delves deeper into its characters’ pasts, it revisits Gibbs’ early days with the agency, providing fresh insights into his life before leading the Major Case Response Team (MCRT).
Throughout “NCIS,” Gibbs’ personal life has been a recurring theme. Initially, he was shrouded in mystery, with little known about him beyond his professional demeanor. However, as his personal and professional lives occasionally intersected, it led to richer and more compelling storylines. “NCIS: Origins” is perfectly positioned to explore Gibbs’ darkest chapter — the tragic murder of his first wife, Shannon, and their daughter, Kelly. Beyond this pivotal event, the series can further examine what followed in Gibbs’ life, particularly his subsequent relationships, giving the franchise an opportunity to resolve the oldest inconsistency in his narrative.