
The NCIS franchise is poised to explore new territories with its upcoming spinoff, NCIS: Origins. While Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs remains a captivating character, the franchise boasts a range of other compelling figures who could thrive in their own prequel series. The exploration of Gibbs’ past has set the stage for an interesting narrative style, showcasing flashbacks from his time as a Marine Corps sergeant and his early days with Mike Franks’ NIS team—marking a unique storytelling approach within this well-loved universe.
A potential new prequel could dive deep into the history of another beloved character from the Major Case Response Team (MCRT). By focusing on pivotal moments in the backstories of fan-favorite characters, the franchise can creatively reintroduce characters who may not have significant roles in the current timeline. This storytelling strategy has the potential to enrich the overarching NCIS narrative while allowing for character exploration and development.
5 Ziva
Ziva’s Mossad Journey





Cote de Pablo’s portrayal of Ziva David stands out as one of the most iconic in the NCIS series, enriching the franchise with a depth of character. First introduced in Season 3, Ziva’s complex relationship with her brother Ari Haswari became a cornerstone of her storyline. A spinoff focused on Ziva could delve into her formative years as a Mossad agent, examining her character development alongside younger versions of Ari and Eli David.
NCIS has already established Ziva as a skilled Mossad officer, renowned for her lethal training. A series exploring her transition into this role would offer a glimpse into her character’s earlier battles, though it must navigate the intricacies of political tensions delicately to avoid controversy.
4 Jenny
Jenny’s NCIS Beginnings





Lauren Holly’s Jennifer Shepard is another character deserving a deeper narrative arc. Serving as the NCIS director from Season 3 to Season 5, Jenny played a pivotal role in both the team’s dynamics and Gibbs’ backstory. Their hinted romantic connection adds a layer of complexity that could be explored in a prequel, providing insights into their collaboration during a critical undercover operation involving a Russian arms dealer.
This prequel could delve into the case involving Anatoly Zhukov and illuminate why Jenny’s relationship with Gibbs was significant both personally and professionally, ultimately leading to her tragic departure from the series.
3 Ducky
Dr. Mallard’s Early Years





A prequel featuring Dr. Donald “Ducky”Mallard could captivate audiences by exploring the formative stages of a character already beloved within the franchise. With his established educational background and medical experience during the Vietnam War, the narrative could highlight pivotal moments leading to Ducky’s involvement with NCIS.
The storyline could explore Ducky’s humanitarian efforts, including his time in Afghanistan, and culminate in his eventual meeting with Leroy Jethro Gibbs. This unique lens might provide a fresh take on the medical drama genre intertwined with investigative storytelling.
2 Tony
Tony’s Baltimore Chronicles





Another rich narrative possibility lies in Tony’s time as a Baltimore police officer. Established largely through flashbacks, Tony’s story is marked by his partnership with Danny Price—a relationship that becomes strained when Tony learns Price is corrupt. A prequel could serve as a police procedural, chronicling Tony’s investigative efforts within the Baltimore Police Department before he transitioned to NCIS.
With Michael Weatherly set to reprise his role as Tony DiNozzo in the upcoming NCIS: Tony & Ziva spinoff, a prequel might also highlight his early days as he meets Gibbs, further enriching the character’s narrative as well.
1 Kate
Kate’s Journey in the Secret Service





Finally, an offshoot focusing on Caitlin Todd could revisit her early career with the Secret Service. This prequel could trace her journey from training to the responsibilities of protecting dignitaries, ultimately leading to her joining NCIS in 2003. Delving into this period of Kate’s life would provide insight into her decision-making and the path that led her to Agent Gibbs.
Exploring Kate’s journey would not only enhance her legacy but also allow the franchise to honor her character following her untimely departure from the show, fulfilling the desire of many fans to see her return in a meaningful way.
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