NCIS: Origins, the franchise’s first prequel, follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the early 1990s as he learns the ropes under Mike Franks. Narrated by Mark Harmon and starring Austin Stowell, the series has been a hit for CBS and returns for season 2 on Tuesday, October 14 at 9 PM.
According to co-showrunner Gina Lucita Monreal, season 2 will highlight a pivotal moment: Gibbs’ first interrogation. While Gibbs has questioned suspects in the field, Monreal says, “We haven’t seen him yet in interrogation properly grilling somebody – and I’m excited to see what that first will look like.”
What It Means for Season 2
Set in 1991, Origins explores how Gibbs became the skilled agent fans know. Season 2 continues his transformation from rookie to seasoned pro. With a fresh cast – including Kyle Schmid, Mariel Molino, Tyla Abercrumbie, Diany Rodriguez, and Caleb Foote – the show presents a younger, evolving version of Gibbs.
While Origins differs from the main NCIS series, that contrast is intentional. It’s partly told through Gibbs’ memories, meaning events may appear different than expected – especially after the dramatic season 1 finale.