This NCIS: Origins video left me with mixed feelings about the prequel series focusing on young Gibbs. While the series aims to revive the franchise’s central character, it comes with notable changes. Mark Harmon, who originally played Gibbs, will not reprise his role but will return as a narrator and executive producer. Instead, Austin Stowell has been cast as the younger Gibbs, introducing a fresh face to the iconic role. Previously, Gibbs’s younger self was portrayed by Mark Harmon’s son, Sean, in NCIS.
Recasting Gibbs is a bold move, but I trust the decision reflects their confidence in the new direction. Sean Harmon, who is also an executive producer on the series, could have taken on the role if he had chosen to. With new actors stepping into these significant roles, NCIS: Origins carries the weight of NCIS’s legacy. Its success will depend on how well these actors capture the essence of the characters while aligning with the audience’s expectations based on the original series. I’m eager to see how they balance this challenge.