CBS has found its young Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Catch 22‘s Austin Stowell has signed on to play Gibbs in the NCIS prequel, NCIS: Origins, which was given a series order in early January 2024.
“NCIS: Origins, produced by CBS Studios, is the newest chapter in the NCIS franchise, exploring Gibbs’ early years. Narrated by Mark Harmon, the new series begins in 1991, years prior to the events of NCIS, and follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs,” reads CBS’s synopsis. “In the series, Gibbs starts his career as a newly minted special agent at the fledgling NCIS Camp Pendleton office where he forges his place on a gritty, ragtag team led by NCIS legend Mike Franks.”
Harmon originated the character and played Gibbs for 19 seasons, beginning in 2003. In addition to narrating, Harmon will be involved in the prequel as an executive producer. Additional executive producers include Sean Harmon, David J. North, and Gina Lucita Monreal. North and Monreal are co-writing the premiere episode and will serve as co-showrunners.
NCIS: Origins will be joining CBS’s primetime lineup during the 2024-2025 season.
Stowell’s recent credits include A Friend of the Family, Keep Breathing, The Long Home, and The Hating Game. Stowell also appeared in The White Lotus, Amazing Stories, Fantasy Island, Swallow, and 12 Strong. He recently wrapped up work on The Inheritance starring Peyton List and Rachel Nichols, and This Tempting Madness directed by Jennifer E. Montgomery.
