Mark Harmon Had Only Two Words For The New Gibbs Actor When He Showed Up For The NCIS: Origins Screen Test

Mark Harmon Had Only Two Words For The New Gibbs Actor When He Showed Up For The NCIS: Origins Screen Test

As a dedicated fan of the NCIS franchise for over two decades, I’m thrilled to see the continuation of this iconic series with the upcoming prequel, NCIS: Origins. The announcement that Mark Harmon’s beloved character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs, will be the focus of this new spinoff has me absolutely ecstatic.


The NCIS series, now in its 20th year and having aired over 1,000 episodes, continues to thrive and is set to introduce another spin-off titled “NCIS: Origins” in fall 2024. This marks a first for the franchise as it delves into the past with a prequel series focusing on Mark Harmon’s iconic character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Harmon plays an executive producer and narrator role in this new production, but when it came to casting the younger version of his character, he simply told Austin Stowell “You’re Gibbs.”

Taking on the role of an existing and cherished character is no small feat for Stowell, as he follows in the footsteps of Harmon. Set in 1991, viewers will encounter a fresh perspective of Gibbs in the series. Although it might feel daunting, Stowell revealed a valuable piece of guidance Harmon shared with him during a TCA panel. This simple yet crucial advice is essential to keep in mind (USA Today).

As a gamer, I can tell you this isn’t the same Gibbs the community is accustomed to. This character is shattered, trying to find who he truly is. During the audition, Mark approached me and whispered two words that have stayed with me since – “trust yourself.”

Stowell isn’t just signing up for an established TV show with “NCIS,” but also introducing viewers to a fresh universe that has previously been hinted at. Harmon’s guidance, although challenging, proved invaluable. Moreover, it’s heartening to learn that Harmon is deeply invested in the new production and looks after the cast. It’s plausible that this nugget of advice is only one of many insights he has imparted to them.

In the upcoming “NCIS: Origins” prequel, Gibbs will start as a new agent at the budding Camp Pendleton and team up with a motley crew led by the esteemed Mike Franks. This series will introduce fresh faces, along with familiar ones from “NCIS,” so Austin Stowell isn’t alone in facing the challenge of filling large shoes. The story promises to be engaging as we discover what unfolds.

Back in May, CBS gave us a sneak peek at Stowell’s portrayal of Gibbs, leaving me eagerly anticipating the show’s arrival. Fortunately, we won’t have to wait much longer as NCIS: Origins is set to debut this fall. Although CBS has pushed back premiere dates until October, the wait promises to be worthwhile with all the excitement surrounding this new series.

The upcoming prequel to NCIS, titled “NCIS: Origins,” is shaping up to be an intriguing addition to the series. While it’s uncertain how the storyline will unfold, early indications suggest that it will be worth the watch. Of course, Mark Harmon as Gibbs is a hard act to follow, but Stowell has impressed us so far with his portrayal. It’s exciting to imagine what Gibbs was like in the ’90s and get a glimpse into the stories of other beloved agents. Don’t forget to tune in for the premiere on Monday, October 14, at 9 p.m. ET, only on CBS.

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2024-07-17 22:07