NCIS: Origins has been making waves in the TV world, but behind the scenes, there’s been a shake-up that fans might not have seen coming. Picture this: a beloved show, fresh off its debut in October 2024, diving into the early days of the iconic character Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by the incomparable Mark Harmon. It’s a prequel that tugs at heartstrings, showing us a younger Gibbs grappling with the unthinkable loss of his wife and daughter, just months later throwing himself into a new role as a special agent at the NIS Camp Pendleton office. The series premiered to eager audiences, blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling, but now, off-camera, changes are brewing. Co-showrunner Gina Lucita Monreal is stepping away after this current season, leaving devoted viewers wondering what it means for the show’s future. It’s like watching a family reunion where one key member is heading out on a new adventure, but everyone hopes the spirit remains intact. David J. North, her longtime collaborator, will take the helm as the sole showrunner, ensuring the ship keeps sailing smoothly. For those who’ve followed the NCIS universe, this feels like a pivotal moment—like when a trusted friend passes the baton in a long relay race. Monreal has been part of the NCIS family for years, and her departure speaks to the creative ebbs and flows that shape TV series. Fans, who’ve grown attached to the characters born from her vision, might feel a twinge of sadness, but there’s also excitement about what season 3 could bring under fresh leadership.
In the midst of this transition, heartfelt statements have flowed from the powers that be, painting a picture of gratitude and optimism. CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach and CBS Studios President David Stapf shared a touching joint statement on January 28, describing Monreal as “an important beloved member” of the NCIS family. It’s heartwarming to hear executives use such warm language, acknowledging her role in launching and steering NCIS: Origins, bringing those “incredible characters and stories” to life. They expressed thanks for her contributions and a hopeful look forward to future collaborations. This isn’t just corporate speak; it reads like a genuine send-off from colleagues who’ve shared coffee runs and late-night brainstorms. Monreal herself chimed in with her own eloquent words, calling it “the biggest honor” of her career to write alongside co-showrunner and friend David North. Imagine the camaraderie—the shared laughs over plot twists, the mutual admiration that fuels creative partnerships. She thanked Amy Reisenbach, David Stapf, and the entire CBS team for their unwavering support, and you can sense the emotion in her reference to working with Mark Harmon, Sean Harmon, the writers, cast, and crew. It’s like listening to a dear friend reminisce about a life-changing journey, filled with “incomparable” talents and unforgettable moments. Her excitement for season 3 bubbles through, imagining what “this extraordinary group” will conjure up next. These statements humanize the industry giants, reminding us that behind the scripts and sets are real people with deep connections, navigating changes with grace and warmth.
Diving into the series itself, NCIS: Origins invites viewers into a vulnerable chapter of Gibbs’ life, one that feels raw and real. The show picks up mere months after the tragic murders of his family, a time when grief shadows every step. Gibbs, newly minted as a special agent, storms into the NIS office, channeling his pain into purpose. For fans of the original NCIS, which Harmon helmed for 18 seasons starting in 2003 until his exit in 2021, this prequel is a treasure trove of backstory. Harmon, now 74, stepped back from the flagship show but hasn’t truly left the fold; he’s the narrator for this new venture and serves as an executive producer alongside his son, Sean Harmon. It’s touching to think of a legend like Harmon revisiting his roots, offering guidance without being on screen. The role of young Gibbs is now embodied by Austin Stowell, who captures the character’s stoic facade masking inner turmoil. As if Harmon’s presence isn’t enough to elevate the stakes, his involvement reminds us of the legacy at play. Stowell, at 41, spoke candidly about the pressure of reincarnating an icon, admitting it’s “daunting” to honor both the fans and the original storyline. Yet, in exclusive interviews before filming season 2, he expressed how Harmon’s mentoring made everyone feel at ease. It’s like having a wise elder in the room, sharing not just tips but a sense of belonging that turns daunting challenges into inspiring ones.
Austin Stowell’s relationship with Mark Harmon is a highlight that adds a personal touch to the show’s narrative. Picture the young actor stepping into a role that could define his career, and there Harmon is, offering subtle cues on posture and mindset right from the start. Stowell recalled Harmon being vocal in the early days—not micromanaging lines, but guiding the essence of Gibbs’ demeanor, helping him “inhabit” the character more fully over time. This mentorship goes beyond acting; Stowell sees Harmon as a model of humanity, learning more about compassion and leadership than mere performance tricks. Harmon’s lack of formal acting notes speaks volumes—he leads by example, welcoming the entire cast and crew with open arms. It’s stories like this that make the industry feel less like a machine and more like a community of storytellers passing the torch. Stowell’s gratitude shines through, describing Harmon as a “wonderful leader” who fosters comfort in an otherwise intense environment. For viewers, this dynamic adds depth to the show; watching Stowell evolve as Gibbs on screen, knowing Harmon’s influence is palpable, makes every episode feel earned. It’s a reminder that behind the drama lies humble beginnings, with veterans nurturing newcomers, creating ripples that benefit audiences for generations.
Building on that foundation, the showrunners—Monreal and North—shared insights into their creative philosophy before season 2 aired, offering a glimpse into the heart of Origins. They aimed to craft a series that satisfies long-time fans with its reverence for NCIS lore while welcoming newcomers without confusion—a delicate balance like hosting a reunion open to old and new friends. Monreal emphasized respecting the canon events strictly, out of love for the “mothership,” yet the team thrives on expanding into new characters and their emotional journeys. It’s as if they’re gardeners tending a vast estate: watering familiar roses while planting fresh blooms that add color and surprise. For those who’ve written on the original show, this prequel is an extension of passion, blending continuity with innovation. As the season unfolded, audiences saw how these principles played out in episodes teeming with raw family ties and investigative intrigue. Monreal’s departure now means North will steward this vision solo, but the creative bedrock she helped lay promises continued strength. Fans can look forward to seeing how these influences evolve, perhaps introducing even more layers to Gibbs’ world. It’s exciting to ponder what hidden depths might emerge, driven by a team that’s visibly invested in storytelling with soul.
As NCIS: Origins gears up for its return on February 24 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS, the air is thick with anticipation for season 3. With Monreal’s bow and North’s steadfast role, the series feels poised for evolution, maintaining the emotional core that defines Gibbs’ saga. Harmon’s off-screen presence serves as an anchor, ensuring authenticity, while Stowell’s portrayal breathes new life into familiar archetypes. Imagine settling in for Tuesday nights, immersed in a tale that’s equal parts tribute and reinvention—episodes that honor the past while forging new paths. The show’s blend of grief, resilience, and justice resonates universally, pulling viewers into a world that feels intimate yet expansive. From the executives’ warm farewells to the actors’ heartfelt reflections, NCIS: Origins isn’t just a prequel; it’s a testament to collaboration and creativity. Despite behind-the-scenes shifts, the promise of fresh stories and character growth keeps hope alive. For fans, this is more than entertainment—it’s a shared journey through loss and legacy, reminding us how art reflects and heals the human experience. As the credits roll each week, one can’t help but feel grateful for the hands shaping these narratives, hoping Harmon’s guiding light continues to inspire for seasons to come.
