Why NCIS: Origins Episode 16’s First Minor Character Death Feels Wrong

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Contains spoilers for “NCIS: Origins” Season 1, Episode 16 — “Bugs”

As Jamison “Bugs” Boyd (Jared Bankens), I never imagined my life would be cut short on “NCIS: Origins.” My role as the Sandman was more than just a job; it was a puzzle for the brilliant Special Agent Vera Strickland (Diany Rodriguez). She became captivated by my case, especially after I confessed to the murder of Melanie Hewitt, her boyfriend, and two others.

However, in the episode “Bugs,” my untimely demise left me wishing for more time. Not because I didn’t want to meet my end, but because the truth about my innocence forced the team to reevaluate their assumptions. Even the most guilty-looking suspect might not be what they seem, and that realization was a valuable lesson.

In Episode 16, Boyd assures he will speak with Vera, but when investigations resume on his case, it’s discovered that the foundation of his initial confession was flawed. It turns out Boyd wasn’t the Sandman; instead, he served as a lookout for the assassin and worked alongside him. Contrary to assumptions, Melanie, whom the team believed was involved with the supposed lover of the Sandman, actually tried to halt his murderous spree. Moreover, she had no part in Boyd’s death, which was the real Sandman’s doing. Regrettably, Boyd fell victim to the Sandman at the conclusion of his self-named episode, implying that the true Sandman remains at large.

Bugs sets up the advent of Operation Sundown — but at what price?

Although it clearly sets up Operation Sundown, leading to young Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Austin Stowell) gaining prominence as an agent, taking on his first major case, and introducing the real Sandman, it’s hard not to ponder the ‘what-ifs’ concerning Boyd and “Bugs.” He certainly plays a role in this episode, but one can’t help but wonder if he could have escaped and contributed something unique to the show’s rich history. In fact, it would have been far more captivating if Boyd had evolved into an informant for Gibbs and his team, rising from the depths of addiction to the heights of the intelligence world itself. Such a narrative would indeed make for a compelling story.

Ah, with all his wrongdoings forgiven, he finds peace as death approaches at the end of the episode, paving the way for Gibbs to reach legendary status. This selfless act is priceless for NCIS enthusiasts; they’ll now get to witness Gibbs ascend and grab his chance, eventually becoming one of the greatest intelligence agents globally. Perhaps there isn’t a ‘Gibbs Rule’ for this situation, but it certainly deserves one.

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2025-04-16 00:59