As CBS gears up for its newest addition to the NCIS universe with NCIS: Origins, fans are buzzing with anticipation. However, the release of the prequel’s first image has already sparked some debate among viewers, particularly regarding one significant aspect of young Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ portrayal.
In the promotional image for NCIS: Origins, we catch our first glimpse of Austin Stowell as the youthful Gibbs. While excitement abounds over seeing the character’s early days unfold, eagle-eyed fans couldn’t help but notice a discrepancy: Gibbs’ hairstyle differs from the iconic look immortalized by Mark Harmon in the original series.
Gibbs’ haircut has long been emblematic of his steadfast and unchanging personality throughout the NCIS saga. It’s become as much a part of his character as his rules and his penchant for boat building. Therefore, for many fans, this deviation in hairstyle feels like a departure from the essence of Gibbs that they’ve come to know and love.
The decision to recast the role of young Gibbs with Austin Stowell, rather than bringing back Sean Harmon, who previously portrayed the character, has also raised eyebrows. However, Mark Harmon’s continued involvement in the series, both as a narrator and co-executive producer alongside his son, offers a reassuring link to the NCIS legacy.
Despite these initial concerns, there’s still much excitement surrounding NCIS: Origins and the opportunity to delve into Gibbs’ formative years within the agency. Set against the backdrop of the early ’90s and exploring the aftermath of the tragic loss of his wife and daughter, Shannon and Kelly, the series promises to provide new insights into one of television’s most beloved characters.
As CBS moves forward with promoting NCIS: Origins and prepares to fill the void left by the cancellation of NCIS: Hawai’i, fans remain hopeful that the prequel will stay true to the spirit of the original series while charting its own course through Gibbs’ past. With Mark Harmon’s guiding influence and a talented cast and crew at the helm, there’s every reason to believe that NCIS: Origins will be a worthy addition to the NCIS universe.
