NCIS: Origins presents a unique chance to revive a beloved character who met a tragic fate 16 years ago. As this prequel series delves into the early days of Agent Gibbs’ career, it creates the perfect opportunity to revisit characters who played pivotal roles in shaping his journey—characters that fans have deeply mourned since their heartbreaking exits from the original series.
Set in 1991, NCIS: Origins focuses on a young Gibbs (portrayed by Austin Stowell) during his early years at NCIS Camp Pendleton. With this shift in time, the prequel opens the door to reintroducing characters who were once central to Gibbs’ life but whose stories ended too soon in the main series. The show can explore their untold stories and offer fresh insights into their relationships with Gibbs.
One character whose return could resonate deeply with fans is Agent Mike Franks. As Gibbs’ mentor during his early NCIS days, Franks, played by Muse Watson, was instrumental in shaping Gibbs into the agent he became, imparting skills and values that defined his career. Unfortunately, Mike Franks met a tragic end in season 8 of NCIS when he was killed by the Port-to-Port Killer.
While NCIS: Origins will feature a younger version of Mike Franks, played by Kyle Schmid, the prequel offers a perfect platform to explore Franks’ story further. By delving into the early relationship between Franks and Gibbs, the show can provide a deeper understanding of the bond that made Franks such an influential figure in Gibbs’ life. This fresh perspective will not only enrich the narrative but also allow viewers to reconnect with a character they admired and missed.
Beyond Mike Franks, NCIS: Origins could also reintroduce other characters who played significant roles in Gibbs’ life but were lost along the way. This includes Shannon and Kelly Gibbs, whose tragic deaths profoundly shaped Gibbs’ character and motivations. Their reappearance in the prequel would give fans a glimpse into the happier times in Gibbs’ life before the tragedies struck, adding layers of emotional depth to the story.
Ultimately, NCIS: Origins is more than just a prequel—it’s a chance to revisit characters who left a lasting impact on the NCIS universe. By bringing back key figures from Gibbs’ past, the series can honor their legacies while introducing new storylines that complement the original show. For longtime fans, this is a rare opportunity to reconnect with characters they thought they’d never see again, making NCIS: Origins a must-watch for anyone who has followed the franchise over the years.
