NCIS: Originsis sabotaging its own success before it can reach its full potential, and that makes me so frustrated. TheNCISfranchise’s first prequel series goes back to the early ’90s, tackling Leroy Jethro Gibbs' start in the agency. In its first 18 episodes, however,NCIS: Originshas proven there’s more to it than just the future MCRT lead.
While I enjoy the majority of the shows in the franchise, the mothership has always been my favorite. Since it has extensively tackled Gibbs' story, I had my reservations aboutNCIS: Originsbeing just a rehash of what we already know. This was the case in its earlier episodes. However, I was pleasantly surprised as it went on.
Ultimately, the back half ofNCIS: Originsseason 1’s storyis arguably some of the most inspired storytelling from the universe in recent years. Some of the episodes were reminiscent of classicNCIS, especially with regard to its procedural aspect. Sadly, however, I can’t help but think thatNCIS: Originsis ruining its chances of being even better before season 2.
My issue stems from how theNCIS: Originsseason 1 cliffhanger mystery has been handled. For context, the year-ender left Lala Dominguez’s fate hanging in the balance as she got into a car accident after they were able to convince Lara Macy to let the mystery of Pedro Hernandez’s death go.
What’s so great about the aforementioned cliffhanger is that things could truly go either way. Although Lala is a main character inNCIS: Origins, her absence in the flagship series, coupled with older Gibbs' narration, makes it also very much possible that the car wreck could claim her life.
Unfortunately, however, there’s a series of reveals that essentiallyconfirm Lala’s survival. Firstly, Mariel Molino was heavily involved in the show’s off-season promotion. That’s followed up by her confirming that she’s back on the set forNCIS: Originsseason 2. Most recently, Austin Stowell effectively reaffirms that Lala indeed lives.
How Spoiling Lala’s NCIS: Origins Season 2’s Fate Cheapens The Cliffhanger
There’s a risk in long-running procedurals of going stale or boring. Since it’s still at the start of its time on broadcast,NCIS: Originsmust establish itself in the best way possible to set up a sustainable future for the show. That includes taking risks and being bold with its storytelling.
Lala’sNCIS: Originsseason 1 cliffhanger is great, but it’s shooting itself in the foot by giving away its resolution ahead of its sophomore year return. As a prequel, a lot of details about its characters' futures have already been revealed. Given its limited options,NCIS: Originsneeds to be more careful with how it handles the wait after the cliffhangers.
After all, there’s really no need for any of the indications that Lala is alive inNCIS: Originsseason 2to come out. There are better ways to promote the show without spoiling the biggest mystery in the upcoming year.
NCIS: Origins
Cast
NCIS: Origins is set in 1991, preceding the events of the original series. The series introduces Leroy Jethro Gibbs as a new special agent at NCIS Camp Pendleton. Under the leadership of NCIS legend Mike Franks, Gibbs navigates his role within a tenacious, unconventional team.
