CBS's NCIS: Origins takes fans on an exhilarating journey back to 1991, revisiting the turbulent beginnings of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed as a rookie by Austin Stowell. Narrator Mark Harmon, reprising his iconic role, introduces us to a story buried in Gibbs's painful past, setting the stage for thrilling revelations yet to come.

This double-episode premiere draws in viewers with a captivating mystery—what pivotal events are we about to uncover? The series begins shortly after Gibbs has returned from the harrowing Operation Desert Storm, grappling with profound personal loss, including the heartbreaking deaths of his wife and daughter. As he steps into his role as a Special Agent at the NIS Camp Pendleton office, under the mentorship of the legendary Mike Franks—played with impressive authenticity by Kyle Schmid—Gibbs must navigate both his new environment and the shadows of his grief.

For steadfast NCIS fans, this deep dives into Gibbs's earlier days offers a fresh perspective on a backstory often hinted at but never fully explored over the series' 19-season run. The complex emotional layers of young Gibbs challenge our expectations and offer new insights, especially regarding the tragic news that forever altered his life.

As a rookie agent, Gibbs exhibits a reserved demeanor, reflecting both his experience as a war veteran and his struggle with personal trauma. This portrayal—though initially a departure from the confident, decisive leader fans adore—serves to illustrate the formative experiences that shaped his character. Viewers will find themselves eagerly waiting for that pivotal moment when Gibbs evolves into the resolute agent that NCIS fans know and love, a transformation hinted at as early as Episode 3.

The supporting cast shines brightly throughout this series, with standout performances that bring color to Gibbs's world. Mariel Molino as Special Agent Lala Dominguez offers a commanding presence, embodying a fearless character reminiscent of Marion Ravenwood. Meanwhile, comic relief comes from Caleb Foote as the overly enthusiastic Agent "Randy" Randolf and Bobby Moynihan as the beleaguered forensics lab boss Woody, providing a nice balance to the series' darker themes.

The ensemble cast also includes intriguing characters, such as Diany Rodriguez's enigmatic Special Agent Vera Strickland, who shows promise for depth later on, and Tyla Abercrumbie’s portrayal of Mary Jo Hayes promises to expand upon her influence in future episodes. Patrick Fischler's portrayal of Officer SAC Wheeler is commendable for its impressive balance of authority and approachability.

Austin Stowell's performance as young Gibbs impressively captures the character's vulnerability and emotional intricacies. While he may look a bit more rugged than Sean Harmon, Stowell successfully channels the gravity that Gibbs possesses at this point in his life. His ability to evoke heart-wrenching emotions showcases the depth of the character as he confronts his traumatic past.

The period setting of 1991 adds a nostalgic flair, complete with retro tech and subtle cultural nods that transport viewers back to the era. From arcade classics like Asteroids and Galaga in the break room to the nostalgic hits echoing throughout episodes, the attention to detail immerses the audience in the time period.

In Conclusion:

NCIS: Origins may take some time to hit its stride, but the groundwork is laid for an exciting narrative steeped in mystery and emotional depth. As the story unfolds, it holds immense promise for fans eager to understand more about the man behind the badge. Prepare for a powerful exploration of loyalty, pain, and ultimately, resilience in Gibbs's journey, as this spin-off strives to carve out a cherished place in the NCIS legacy.