The Real Reason Gibbs Is So Protective of Lala in NCIS: Origins!!!!

In NCIS: Origins, Gibbs, traditionally known for his stoic demeanor, displays a surprisingly overprotective side toward Lala, a stark contrast to his usual interactions with his male colleagues. The spinoff, set just months after the tragic loss of his wife and daughter, explores the emotional toll their deaths have taken on him and the changes in his personality as he grapples with grief while navigating his career.

The differences in Gibbs’ character between NCIS and NCIS: Origins reflect his ongoing struggle with loss. While his relationships with his colleagues are supportive and understanding, his bond with Lala stands out. Gibbs not only gets along well with her but is especially protective, showing a level of care that he does not extend to his male coworkers.

Gibbs’ Overprotectiveness Toward Lala

Gibbs’ protective instincts toward Lala are rooted in his deep-seated guilt over failing to protect his own family. In an NCIS: Origins flashback, Gibbs reveals that Shannon and Kelly were killed while he was serving in the Marine Corps. The devastating loss left him unable to protect them, a tragedy that continues to haunt him. This guilt drives him to overcompensate in his efforts to protect Lala, as he feels responsible for not being there when it mattered most for Shannon and Kelly.

In one instance, in episode 5, Gibbs overreacts when two men refuse to heed Lala’s command to leave the premises. Though Lala tells him to stand down, Gibbs, consumed by his grief, struggles to listen and remains determined to protect her. This emotional blindness is also evident in episode 9, where Gibbs faces difficulty following Franks’ orders to stand down when he sees Lala being attacked by a suspect.

For Gibbs, protecting Lala is not just about keeping her safe—it’s about atoning for his perceived failure to protect Shannon and Kelly. He is driven by a need to ensure that Lala does not share the same tragic fate.