NCIS Origins: Everything You Need to Know About the New Prequel Series

The NCIS franchise has been one of the most successful and long-running television series in history. With millions of fans worldwide, the show continues to evolve through spin-offs, new seasons, and deeper storytelling. One of the most exciting upcoming additions to the franchise is NCIS: Origins, a prequel series that takes viewers back to the early days of Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

In this detailed guide, we will explore NCIS Origins, its storyline, cast, connection to NCIS Season 22, and answer major fan questions like when does Gibbs leave NCIS, why did Mark Harmon leave NCIS, and where to watch NCIS: Los Angeles. This article is completely original, SEO-friendly, and written for fans who want accurate and up-to-date information.

What Is NCIS: Origins?

NCIS: Origins is an upcoming prequel series in the NCIS universe that focuses on the early career of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, one of the most iconic characters in television crime drama history.

Unlike the main NCIS series, which follows Gibbs as a seasoned agent, NCIS Origins takes viewers back to his beginnings—when he first joined the Naval Investigative Service (NIS), the organization that later became NCIS.

Key Highlights of NCIS Origins:

• Set years before the original NCIS
• Focuses on a young Gibbs
• Explores his personal losses and early career development
• Shows how he became the leader fans know today
• Ties into the larger NCIS timeline

This prequel offers long-time fans a deeper emotional connection to Gibbs while also welcoming new viewers who want to start from the beginning.

NCIS Season 22: How It Connects to NCIS Origins

NCIS Season 22 continues the legacy of the main series and serves as a bridge between the present-day storyline and the upcoming prequel.

Although Gibbs is no longer a regular character, his influence remains strong throughout the series. Season 22 references past missions, leadership values, and decisions that directly connect to what viewers will see in NCIS Origins.

What to Expect in NCIS Season 22:

• Strong focus on legacy characters
• More backstory references to Gibbs
• Subtle setups for NCIS Origins
• Emotional callbacks for long-time fans
• Continued evolution of the NCIS team

While NCIS Origins takes place decades earlier, Season 22 helps maintain continuity and emotional relevance for viewers.

Cast of NCIS: Origins

One of the most exciting aspects of the series is the cast of NCIS: Origins. Since the show focuses on a younger Gibbs, a new actor steps into the role, while other characters are either newly introduced or reimagined.

Expected Cast Highlights:

• Young Leroy Jethro Gibbs – A new lead actor portraying Gibbs’ early years
• Early NIS Agents – Characters who shaped Gibbs’ career
• Military & Investigative Figures – Reflecting Cold War–era crime-solving
• Mentors and Commanding Officers – Key figures in Gibbs’ development

Although Mark Harmon is not playing Gibbs in this series, he remains closely involved as an executive producer, ensuring the character stays authentic.

When Does Gibbs Leave NCIS?

One of the most frequently asked questions by fans is: When does Gibbs leave NCIS?

Gibbs officially exits the main NCIS series during Season 19. His departure is handled quietly and respectfully, staying true to his character.

Why His Exit Made Sense:

• Gibbs had completed his emotional journey
• He chose peace over constant danger
• His character arc reached a natural conclusion
• It allowed the show to evolve with new leadership

Although Gibbs is no longer part of the weekly storyline, his presence continues through references, flashbacks, and now, NCIS Origins.

Why Did Mark Harmon Leave NCIS?

Another major fan question is why did Mark Harmon leave NCIS after nearly two decades.

Key Reasons Behind His Departure:

1. Creative Closure – Harmon felt Gibbs’ story had been fully told.
2. Personal Time – After 18+ years, he wanted a lighter workload.
3. Behind-the-Scenes Role – He continues as an executive producer.
4. Franchise Expansion – His exit made room for new stories like NCIS Origins.

Importantly, Harmon did not leave due to conflict or declining popularity. His decision was respectful, planned, and supported by the network.

Where to Watch NCIS: Los Angeles

If you're catching up on the franchise, you might wonder where to watch NCIS: Los Angeles, one of the most popular spin-offs.

Streaming Options:

• Paramount+ – Full seasons available
• CBS Official Website/App – Selected episodes
• Amazon Prime Video – Purchase or rent
• Apple TV – Digital purchase option

NCIS: Los Angeles plays an important role in expanding the NCIS universe and is worth watching before diving into NCIS Origins.

How NCIS Origins Fits Into the NCIS Universe

The NCIS franchise has grown into a massive television universe that includes:

• NCIS
• NCIS: Los Angeles
• NCIS: New Orleans
• NCIS: Hawai‘i
• NCIS: Sydney
• NCIS: Origins

What Makes NCIS Origins Unique:

• First true prequel in the franchise
• Focus on character development instead of modern tech
• Grittier storytelling
• Emotional origin of Gibbs’ rules and leadership style

This series fills in long-standing gaps that fans have wondered about for years.

Why Fans Are Excited About NCIS Origins

The excitement around NCIS Origins comes from nostalgia combined with fresh storytelling.

Reasons for High Anticipation:

• Fans finally see young Gibbs in action
• Deeper emotional storytelling
• Connection to iconic NCIS moments
• Strong writing and production quality
• Mark Harmon’s involvement ensures authenticity

For longtime viewers, this series answers questions they’ve had for over a decade.

Will NCIS Origins Affect Future NCIS Seasons?

Yes, in a positive way.

The prequel allows writers to:

• Reference past events with more accuracy
• Build deeper character motivations
• Introduce legacy storylines
• Strengthen emotional continuity

Future seasons of NCIS can now pull material directly from NCIS Origins, making the franchise feel more connected than ever.

Final Thoughts on NCIS Origins

NCIS Origins is shaping up to be one of the most important additions to the NCIS universe. By exploring Gibbs’ early career, the series adds emotional depth, narrative strength, and long-term value to the franchise.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – NCIS Origins

1. What is NCIS Origins about?

NCIS Origins is a prequel series that explores the early life and career of Leroy Jethro Gibbs before the events of the main NCIS show. It focuses on how Gibbs joined the Naval Investigative Service, the challenges he faced, and the experiences that shaped him into the legendary agent fans know today.

2. Is NCIS Origins connected to NCIS Season 22?

Yes, NCIS Season 22 is closely connected to NCIS Origins. While Season 22 continues the modern storyline, it includes references and emotional links to Gibbs’ past. The prequel helps viewers better understand his decisions, personality, and leadership style seen throughout the main series.

3. Who is in the cast of NCIS: Origins?

The cast of NCIS: Origins features a younger version of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, played by a new actor. The show also introduces early NIS agents, military officers, and mentors who influenced Gibbs’ career. Although Mark Harmon does not appear on-screen, he remains involved as an executive producer.

4. When does Gibbs leave NCIS?

Gibbs officially leaves NCIS during Season 19. His exit is quiet and emotional, fitting his character perfectly. He chooses a peaceful life after years of service, marking the end of an era for the series while opening the door for new storylines like NCIS Origins.

5. Why did Mark Harmon leave NCIS?

Mark Harmon left NCIS mainly for personal and creative reasons. After playing Gibbs for nearly two decades, he felt the character’s story had reached a natural conclusion. However, he continues to support the franchise behind the scenes as a producer, including his involvement in NCIS Origins.

6. Where can I watch NCIS: Los Angeles?

You can watch NCIS: Los Angeles on:

• Paramount+
• CBS (selected episodes)
• Amazon Prime Video
• Apple TV

The series is an important part of the NCIS universe and adds depth to the overall storyline.

7. Is NCIS Origins worth watching for new viewers?

Yes, absolutely. NCIS Origins is beginner-friendly and does not require prior knowledge of the franchise. At the same time, long-time fans will enjoy the deeper character development, emotional storytelling, and connections to the original NCIS series.