Kyle Schmid Embraces Mike Franks’ Legacy in NCIS: Origins
At the NCIS: Origins panel during this summer’s Television Critics Association press tour, Kyle Schmid made a notable impression with his mustache, evoking memories of Muse Watson’s portrayal of Mike Franks from the original NCIS series. This wasn’t just a nod to the past—Schmid is set to portray a younger version of Franks in the upcoming prequel series.
Known for his roles in SIX and Big Sky, Schmid spoke with TVLine about his approach to embodying the iconic character. “Playing Mike Franks is intriguing because of the unique NCIS fandom,” Schmid said. “Sticking to the specifics of the character allows me the freedom to infuse my own individuality into the role.”
One crucial detail for Schmid was the mustache, which he felt was essential to capturing Franks’ look and staying true to the period. “The Franks character from the original series seemed to be stuck in 1991, so the mustache felt like a must-have,” he explained.
To further transform into Franks, Schmid convinced the producers to let him wear dark brown contacts to change his naturally blue eyes. “It’s not the same looking in the mirror and seeing Kyle Schmid,” he noted. “I needed to see someone completely different that I built from the ground up.”
In addition to the physical changes, Schmid adopted a voice similar to Watson’s portrayal, staying in character throughout his workday. “I stay in character from start to finish,” he said, demonstrating his Franks voice during the interview.
Schmid’s efforts aim to help NCIS fans connect with this younger version of a pivotal figure in Leroy Jethro Gibbs’ life. The prequel series will delve into the early days of their relationship, beginning in 1991 when Gibbs joins the NIS Camp Pendleton office.
Schmid describes Franks as someone who sees something “broken” in Gibbs, reflecting his own experiences. “Mike Franks recognizes an opportunity to save someone from themselves,” Schmid explained. “Introducing Gibbs to the NIS world in 1991 was a chance to give a talented young man a second chance after heartbreak.”
Co-showrunner David North captures their dynamic: “They’re boss and probie! There’s nothing I love writing more. Seeing Gibbs in situations you could never imagine with Mark Harmon has been just wonderful.”
NCIS: Origins premieres Monday, October 14, at 9/8c with a double-episode launch before moving to its regular 10 p.m. time slot the following week.
