The “NCIS” prequel series in the works at CBS has cast Austin Stowell in the read role of a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, Variety has learned.
The series, titled “NCIS: Origins,” was originally ordered at CBS in January with plans to launch during the 2024-2025 broadcast season. Mark Harmon, who played Gibbs for nearly two decades in the mothership series, will serve as the show’s narrator and executive producer.
“NCIS: Origins” is set in 1991. The official description states, “Gibbs starts his career as a newly minted special agent at the fledgling NIS Camp Pendleton office where he forges his place on a gritty, ragtag team led by NCIS legend Mike Franks.”
Stowell’s recent TV credits include “Three Women” at Starz, “A Friend of the Family” at Peacock, “Amazing Stories” at Apple TV+, and “Catch 22” at Hulu. He has also starred in films such as “Bridge of Spies,” “Whiplash,” “Battle of the Sexes,” “12 Strong,” and “Collosal.”
He is repped by Gersh and Yorn Levine Barnes.
David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal co-wrote the pilot for “NCIS: Origins” and serve as co-showrunners and executive producers on the series. North and Monreal both wrote on “NCIS” for 10 years, with North currently serving as co-showrunner on that show. Mark Harmon executive produces along with his son, Sean Harmon. CBS Studios produces.
This marks the latest expansion of the “NCIS” franchise. In addition to the main show, which recently launched its 21st season, CBS also currently airs “NCIS: Hawaii” while “NCIS: Sydney” airs on Paramount+ and CBS. CBS also previously aired “NCIS: Los Angeles” and “NCIS: New Orleans.”