With 22 seasons, Navy CIS is one of the most successful series of the last decades. The series itself has so far spawned four spin-offs that follow teams of investigators in different cities. Two more spin-offs are planned and one launched in October 2024.
The title NCIS: Origins tells the story of the character Leroy Gibbs, who was originally portrayed by Mark Harmon. Austin Stowell appears as a young version of the character, but it wasn’t his first NCIS appearance.
Austin Stowell went from guest star on NCIS: Origins to main character
Austin Stowell was part of the NCIS universe 14 years ago. In the spin-off NCIS: LA he had a guest appearance in the 4th episode of the 2nd season. In it he starred as Private James Winston. With his crew cut and military outfit, he looked very different back then than he does today.
The role of James Winston was one of the first roles the actor ever played. In the same year he had a guest appearance on 90210. Years later he returned to NCIS as the main protagonist and became arguably the most popular character.
NCIS star Mark Harmon joins Austin Stowell as Leroy Gibbs
In an interview with People magazine, Mark Harmon spoke about his successor. The competition was said to be fierce until Stowell entered the room. It quickly became clear to Harmon and the producers that he had to take the role.
I felt the room shake a little as Austin walked in before he said anything.
Harmon was very confident in Stowell’s choice, which should be encouraging. At least the new Gibbs has the blessing of the man who played the role for 19 years. Harmon himself serves as narrator in the prequel, also returning to his most iconic role.