LONDON — Austin Stowell is experiencing a remarkable moment in his career as he takes on the iconic role of Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the upcoming series “NCIS: Origins.”
Stowell expressed his excitement, saying, “Since I got this job, it has just been day after day after day of the greatest day of my life,” a sentiment that radiates from his beaming smile.
The actor has embraced the persona of the ex-Marine-turned-naval investigator, with the storyline taking place 25 years prior to the audience’s introduction to the character, initially portrayed by Mark Harmon, over the course of 19 seasons from 2003 until 2021.
The concept for this prequel series was developed by Harmon and his son, Sean, focused on the early years of the special agent who tackled criminal cases for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service based in Virginia.
Stowell aims to honor Harmon’s legacy by offering audiences a fresh outlook on how Gibbs became the formidable character they came to adore.
Also, Harmon, who serves as a narrator and makes occasional appearances, has been a pillar of support for Stowell, taking the time to provide advice, visit the set, and send texts—a rare gesture from a character as technology-averse as Gibbs.
“Mark and I talk a lot about what it means to be the leader of a team, about what it means to be a leader of this set and crew,” Stowell noted.
He appreciates these discussions, admitting that he has never held the top position on a TV show until now.
Among the valuable lessons he’s gathered from Harmon are the simple yet effective guidelines: punctuality, kindness, respect, and professionalism.
Determined to immerse himself in the “NCIS” universe, Stowell has extensively researched the series, transitioning from a casual viewer to an enthusiastic fan.
During a pop quiz, he accurately identified all of the franchise’s four spin-off shows, though he hit a slight snag with one of Gibbs’ cardinal rules: “Never believe what you are told.”
(For reference, he sometimes requires the full list to refresh his memory.)
According to Stowell, an element of Gibbs’ lasting appeal lies in his grounded humanity.
“Gibbs doesn’t wear a cape. He just has to use his brain and use his heart. I would argue that that makes him the most super of the heroes because it’s real. It’s something that we can all accomplish,” he stated.
However, “NCIS: Origins” breaks away from the traditional procedural format, encompassing the crime-solving and quick-witted exchanges fans have come to love.
Stowell described the series as leaning toward a darker tone, akin to “True Detective,” which can create a tense atmosphere on set.
“Very often I find myself kind of in a dark corner,” he added, painting a picture of the show’s intense themes.
In this narrative, Gibbs is navigating a new path after his military service, grappling with personal demons and a formidable reputation while also possessing the keen instincts required for effective investigations at Camp Pendleton, led by Kyle Schmid’s charismatic character, Mike Franks.
Stowell expressed excitement about portraying a scene where he could convey a powerful understanding through his gaze.
To enhance his portrayal, Stowell wears special contact lenses that replicate Harmon’s characteristic striking blue eyes.
Filming for “NCIS: Origins” has spanned over three and a half months, during which Stowell discovered unexpected similarities between himself and Gibbs.
Gibbs is portrayed as someone who is wary of technology, deeply appreciates nature, and has a penchant for craftsmanship, such as constructing a boat in his basement.
Upon receiving the call confirming his casting while off the grid in Vermont, Stowell recognized a serendipitous connection.
“I’m very much an analog person, so I’m very comfortable in this 1991 world where the reliance is on conversations and relationships as opposed to Siri and Alexa,” he remarked.
When considering whether he’s learned to trust his instincts in the same way Gibbs does, Stowell shared, “I read the pilot and immediately connected with who this guy was. And so my gut has told me that this is where I’ve been meant to be from the start.”
His eyes filled with emotion as he expressed, “There is something that has awoken inside of me, almost like it was the character I’ve been waiting to play my whole life.”
