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- Co-showrunner exit reshapes leadership on NCIS: Origins
- Monreal’s reaction and gratitude to cast and crew
- Where the prequel sits within the NCIS universe
- Cast dynamics: mentorship from a franchise icon
- Creative priorities laid out by the showrunners
- Practical timeline and what’s next for the series
- Behind the scenes: production roles and relationships
- What fans can expect in season three planning
A key creative change is underway at NCIS: Origins as one of its co-leaders prepares to step away. The move reshuffles the showrunner lineup for the CBS prequel and raises questions about the series’ future tone as it heads into another season.
Co-showrunner exit reshapes leadership on NCIS: Origins
Co-showrunner Gina Lucita Monreal will leave NCIS: Origins at the end of the current season, multiple outlets report. Her departure was announced in late January.
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That change leaves David J. North as the sole showrunner going forward. CBS and the studio issued a public note of thanks to Monreal.
The network and studio praised Monreal’s role in launching the series. They said her early creative work helped set a strong foundation for the show.
Monreal’s reaction and gratitude to cast and crew
Monreal shared her own message about leaving the series. She described working on the show as the high point of her career.
In her statement she thanked CBS executives, producers, writers and the cast. She singled out working again with Mark Harmon and his son Sean Harmon as a special honor.
Monreal also expressed excitement for what the team will create in season three. She called the cast and crew “the best in the business.”
Where the prequel sits within the NCIS universe
NCIS: Origins premiered in October 2024. The series explores a younger version of Leroy Jethro Gibbs years before the events of the original show.
The timeline begins less than a year after Gibbs’ wife and daughter died. The early episodes follow Gibbs as he becomes a special agent at the NIS Camp Pendleton office.
Mark Harmon serves as the narrator and is an executive producer on the project. His involvement links the prequel to the legacy series.
Why the prequel matters to fans and newcomers
- The show aims to respect long-term NCIS fans by sticking to established events.
- At the same time, it tries to be accessible to viewers new to the NCIS universe.
- Producers emphasize emotional depth for the new characters.
Cast dynamics: mentorship from a franchise icon
The actor who portrays young Gibbs has spoken about guidance from Harmon on set. He described Harmon as a steady presence.
Harmon reportedly offered direction on posture, mindset and the small details that shape a believable Gibbs. The lead actor said Harmon leads more by example than by direct notes.
Beyond performance coaching, Harmon has been praised for creating a welcoming atmosphere for cast and crew. That tone has been credited with helping actors settle into demanding roles.
Creative priorities laid out by the showrunners
Before season two, the show’s leadership explained their goals for the prequel. Their approach balances reverence for the original series with fresh storytelling.
- Respecting canon: Writers avoid contradicting established NCIS storylines.
- Emotional focus: The series digs into characters’ inner lives and motivations.
- Newcomer friendly: Episodes are designed so new viewers can join anytime.
Monreal and North have repeatedly said they want the show to reward loyal NCIS viewers. They also want to make each episode a good entry point for new audiences.
Practical timeline and what’s next for the series
The show returned for season two late in 2024. It is scheduled to return on Tuesday, February 24 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.
With Monreal exiting after the current season, production will now operate under North’s single leadership. That could influence story arcs and staffing choices for season three.
Key dates to note:
- October 2024 — Series premiere of NCIS: Origins.
- Late 2024 — Season two broadcast window.
- January 28, 2025 — Studio and network issued a joint statement.
- February 24, 2026 — Scheduled return to CBS at 9 p.m. ET.
Behind the scenes: production roles and relationships
Harmon’s credit as narrator and executive producer has helped give the series credibility.
His son Sean Harmon also holds an executive producer role. The family connection adds continuity to the franchise’s creative team.
Writers and crew involved with the flagship NCIS have contributed to the prequel. That experience helped producers aim for tonal alignment between the two shows.
What fans can expect in season three planning
Though Monreal will depart, producers say the creative DNA she helped build remains. Studio executives expressed confidence the show will continue to develop its characters.
Writers have prioritized emotional storytelling and adherence to the original series’ continuity. Those priorities are likely to guide season three planning under North.
Fans should watch for continuing character work and links back to the NCIS timeline as the series progresses.
