5 Essential Actions NCIS: Origins Must Take to Reverse Its Alarming Ratings Decline

NCIS: Origins is witnessing a troubling decline in viewership, prompting discussions about potential strategies to rejuvenate the series. As the inaugural prequel of the NCIS franchise, it chronicles the early career of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, shortly after the tragic loss of his wife and daughter during the early 1990s. Unlike its predecessors, the show has shifted away from the well-established procedural format, instead opting for a deeper exploration of its characters. While this narrative evolution initially drew interest, it has not succeeded in retaining a strong audience.

The uncertainty surrounding a second season of NCIS: Origins adds to the concern brought on by its plummeting ratings. According to a ratings report from TV Line, the show has dipped to an audience low as it approaches its midseason finale. This decline is troubling for a program still in its early stages, as it faces considerable pressure to regain viewer numbers to secure future seasons. Fortunately, there remains hope for improvement, as multiple episodes still air for the first season, allowing the creators a chance to rectify its current trajectory.

5 Injecting Familiar Faces into NCIS: Origins

NCIS Characters Must Have More Frequent Appearances

One of the thrilling aspects of an NCIS prequel is the opportunity to reintroduce characters from the main series who are no longer present. To enhance viewer engagement, the resurrection of familiar NCIS personas in NCIS: Origins could be pivotal to lifting the show’s fortunes. For example, the character of Mike Franks significantly influenced Gibbs, evolving from a mentoring role to a deep friendship. Witnessing the progression of their relationship in real time could be one of the most captivating elements of the prequel.

Additionally, NCIS: Origins has successfully integrated Gibbs’ father, Jackson, and a younger version of Tobias Fornell into the plot. Fornell’s appearance serves as a nostalgic nod for longtime NCIS fans and resolves one of the franchise’s longstanding inconsistencies about Gibbs’ history with his best friend. By featuring younger iterations of beloved NCIS characters, NCIS: Origins can create a stronger connection to the flagship series, possibly attracting a larger audience.

4 Focus Should Return to Gibbs in NCIS: Origins

Gibbs’ Backstory Was Central to NCIS: Origins’ Concept

The fading ratings may be attributed to a deviation from the original premise of NCIS: Origins. Instead of concentrating solely on Gibbs’ early days within NIS, the narrative has expanded to include various team members, such as Randy and Lala. A narrative shift was even hinted at when Mark Harmon’s Gibbs indicated that “NCIS: Origins is Lala’s story.”This broader focus, while innovative, strays from Gibbs’ story that drew fans in the first place.

The audience largely tuned in to see Gibbs, so the drop in viewership can be interpreted as a lack of interest in new characters. Restoring the central narrative around Gibbs could ultimately lead to a revival in ratings and renewed interest in the series.

3 More Mark Harmon as Old Gibbs Is Essential

Mark Harmon Could Be Key to the Show’s Revival

Mark Harmon’s return as Gibbs is one of the strongest elements of NCIS: Origins. Following his departure from NCIS in season 19, fans speculated about his future with the franchise. The prequel not only brought him back, albeit in a limited capacity but also has the potential to use him in greater depth to elevate the series’ ratings.

Initially, Harmon was set to serve only as a narrator, yet his involvement now extends to brief scenes shot in Alaska, the setting for Gibbs’ retirement. His presence adds significant emotional depth to the story. By enhancing Harmon’s role, the show could bridge the gap between longtime fans and newer viewers, fostering broader appeal.

2 NCIS: Origins Requires Engaging Weekly Cases

The Show Should Pivot Back to Intriguing Weekly Cases

Fans have long appreciated NCIS for its weekly case-driven format, a hallmark replicated by all its spinoffs. However, NCIS: Origins has shifted its emphasis toward character narratives rather than unfolding intriguing cases. Although compelling plots exist, the show needs to reinforce its commitment to engaging weekly mysteries.

A return to the traditional procedural episode format employed by NCIS and its spinoffs—while integrating character development—could help realign NCIS: Origins with its roots, potentially reclaiming viewer interest.

1 Consistency in Tone Is Crucial for NCIS: Origins

The Show Must Decide on a Consistent Tone

At times, NCIS: Origins operates on a notably dark narrative frequency, exploring Gibbs’ psychological state post-tragedy and the subsequent evolution of his character. While the tone variations provide insight into Gibbs’ complexities, such shifts can be counterproductive, detracting from the viewing experience.

To enhance its appeal, the show should choose a consistent tone, whether it leans toward darkness or a lighter approach, while minimizing excessive flashbacks. The erratic tonal fluctuations risk alienating audiences, as this inconsistency is less characteristic of the main NCIS series.

Source: TV Line

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