“NCIS: Origins” delves into the early years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Austin Stowell), charting his journey towards becoming the stoic team leader familiar to “NCIS” viewers. Acknowledging potential fan concerns about a younger, less grizzled Gibbs, the series addresses this by introducing Gibbs’ father, NCIS Special Agent Jackson Gibbs, as a recurring character. While the older Jackson Gibbs was portrayed by Ralph Waite in the main series, “Origins” takes a different approach with Robert Taylor stepping into the role for flashback sequences.
Robert Taylor brings a wealth of experience to the role, known for his versatile performances across various genres. Prior to “NCIS: Origins,” Taylor made a lasting impact in the late-1990s sci-fi classic “The Matrix” as Agent Jones, one of the memorable adversaries within the sentient program. His portrayal included an iconic rooftop fight scene opposite Keanu Reeves’s Neo, showcasing Taylor’s ability to embody formidable authority figures.
Another notable role for Taylor was as Sheriff Walt Longmire in the acclaimed series “Longmire,” where he portrayed a modern-day cowboy navigating the complexities of Absaroka County. Taylor’s portrayal of Walt Longmire, rooted in the traditions of the American West yet infused with contemporary nuances, earned him praise from critics and audiences alike across the show’s six-season run.
With his experience and presence, Robert Taylor is poised to bring depth and authenticity to the role of Jackson Gibbs in “NCIS: Origins,” offering insights into the formative years of a character deeply intertwined with Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ evolution.