“NCIS: Origins” Crossover Welcomes Back Mark Harmon,Muse Watson – and Teases a Baby Torres Future
The “NCIS” universe expanded Tuesday with a crossover event between the flagship series and its prequel,”NCIS: Origins,” bringing back fan favorites mark Harmon (as Leroy Jethro Gibbs) and Muse Watson (as Mike Franks). The episode served as both a nostalgic reunion and a bridge to the future,hinting at storylines to come,including a potential appearance by Wilmer valderrama’s young Torres.
The crossover focused on a 1991 case involving a shared adversary, allowing Gibbs and Franks to collaborate with the younger versions of characters viewers know well. While a direct reunion between Gibbs and Lala (played by Simone Kessell) didn’t occur,the episode explored the burgeoning connection between Franks and Vera (Natasha Little),with showrunners David North and Janine Sherman Barrois suggesting a complex dynamic fueled by both affection and professional friction. “There is definitely a love underneath their relationship,” North explained to TVLine, adding that their constant clashes stem from a deep level of care for one another.
Beyond the case itself,the crossover offered glimpses into the formative years of key “NCIS” figures.The episode also sparked conversation about the future, with North revealing frequent interaction with Valderrama about incorporating a younger version of his character, Torres, into a future crossover. “He’s not leaving us any choice,” North stated, indicating plans to address Torres’ origins soon.
Fans are now left to speculate on how Lala will integrate into Gibbs’ life as it currently exists,and whether the hinted-at romantic tension between Franks and Vera will impact their professional partnership. TVLine has launched a poll asking readers to grade the crossover and share their thoughts on the return of Harmon and Watson, and the potential for future storylines.
