NCIS fans quickly spotted discrepancies in Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ appearance in the new prequel series, NCIS: Origins, as CBS unveils a younger version of the iconic character.
CBS is gearing up for its next venture in the NCIS universe with the introduction of the series NCIS: Origins.
The new series is a prequel exploring the early days of Mark Harmon’s iconic character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs.
Following the surprise cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i, the network is set to fill the gap with this new series in the upcoming television season.
Unlike previous expansions, this series marks the first prequel for the franchise, delving into its extensive backstory.
NCIS: Origins will focus on Gibbs’ initial experiences at the agency, offering fans a glimpse into his formative years in law enforcement.
NCIS: Origins is set in the early 1990s and follows Gibbs as he begins his career at Camp Pendleton.
This is around the time he joins Mike Franks’ team shortly after the tragic deaths of his first wife and daughter, Shannon and Kelly.
The role of young Gibbs has been recast with Austin Stowell stepping in for Mark’s son Sean Harmon, who previously portrayed younger versions of Gibbs on NCIS.
While Mark will not return in his usual acting capacity, he remains integral to the series, lending his voice as the narrator and serving as a co-executive producer alongside his son.
The promotional push for NCIS: Origins has begun, with CBS showcasing the first official image during their upfront presentations.
The promotional image for NCIS: Origins introduces Austin as a youthful Gibbs.
However, there is a change that may require some adjustment for long-time fans of the series who are accustomed to Mark Harmon’s portrayal.
Although the transition in actors invites scrutiny, the production team’s track record encourages withholding judgment until the series premieres.
An early critique from fans points out an inconsistency: Gibbs’ historically short and tidy hairstyle is depicted differently on Austin, whose hair appears significantly longer in the promo.
Mark’s portrayal of Gibbs in NCIS established him as a steadfast leader, a father figure, and the moral anchor of the team.
He was also known for his specific personal rules and habits.
His character was consistently depicted with a precise, short haircut, reflecting his disciplined and unchanging nature. This is a trait fans came to rely on as a symbol of his character’s integrity.
As NCIS: Origins explores Gibbs’ earlier years, fans have expressed that maintaining this hairstyle would honor the character’s legacy.
Should the series choose to deviate, providing a narrative reason for this change would be crucial to maintaining continuity.
NCIS: Origins is set to occupy the Monday 10 pm ET slot on CBS, previously held by the newly cancelled NCIS: Hawai’i.