NCIS: Origins is set to return with a second season that not only explores the formative years of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs but also deepens its connection to the larger NCIS universe. According to co-showrunner Gina Lucita Monreal, the series remains committed to honoring the established canon, promising fans a rich blend of new storylines alongside beloved characters from the original show.
Staying True to the Canon
Season 1 of NCIS: Origins captivated viewers by offering unprecedented insights into Gibbs’ early career and introducing several characters familiar to NCIS fans. The show skillfully wove in references to key moments in Gibbs’ history, ensuring that longtime followers saw continuity and respect for the original series’ timeline.
Monreal confirmed to TVLine that the writers maintain a rigorous approach to canon adherence. “We always have our eye on canon. We have a big huge timeline in the writers' room, and we're really strict about sticking to it,” she shared. This dedication means that events and character arcs that fans know and love will be addressed thoughtfully and consistently.
Familiar Faces Returning and New Connections Emerging
The first season featured appearances by iconic characters like Lara Macy, Diane Sterling, and even glimpses of Gibbs himself, grounding the prequel in the familiar NCIS world. Looking ahead, Monreal hinted that season 2 could introduce more recognizable names from the franchise. Fans might soon see the Fed 5 — the legendary group of law enforcement officers from the backdoor pilot of NCIS: New Orleans — brought to life. This quintet, including Gibbs, Mike Franks, Dwayne Pride, Felix Betts, and Dan McLane, could provide exciting new dynamics and enrich the storyline.
Though the show aims to honor the franchise’s history, it’s not without challenges. NCIS: Origins occasionally contends with potential plot inconsistencies, but Monreal emphasized that the creative team is taking every measure to preserve continuity and respect the original show’s narrative fabric.
What to Expect in Season 2
Beyond revisiting canonical moments, season 2 promises to deepen character development and introduce fresh story arcs. One highly anticipated storyline is the further exploration of Gibbs’ relationship with Diane Sterling, a character introduced in the first season who hints at the beginnings of Gibbs’ future personal life.
New characters, like Cecilia "Lala" Dominguez, also add layers of intrigue. Lala’s enigmatic presence and the developing romantic tension with Gibbs create new emotional stakes that viewers haven’t seen before, striking a balance between honoring the past and innovating for the future.
Why This Matters for NCIS Fans
NCIS: Origins serves as a vital link connecting fans to the backstory of one of television’s most enduring characters. By remaining faithful to established canon while injecting new stories and personalities, the show enhances the broader NCIS universe and keeps audiences engaged with fresh content rooted in familiarity.
This thoughtful storytelling approach assures fans that the legacy of Leroy Jethro Gibbs and his colleagues will be explored with nuance and respect, adding depth to the iconic franchise.
Final Thoughts
As NCIS: Origins season 2 approaches, viewers can look forward to an intriguing mix of nostalgia and novelty. The return of known characters alongside compelling new faces will deepen the show’s emotional resonance and maintain continuity with the beloved NCIS saga.
What new revelations about Gibbs’ past are you most eager to see? And which returning characters do you hope to catch up with? Share your thoughts as NCIS: Origins prepares to take fans back to where it all began — with a fresh yet familiar look at one of TV’s most legendary agents.
NCIS: Origins continues to air on CBS, offering a powerful prequel experience that honors the legacy of its parent series while charting new territory.
