Why ‘NCIS: Origins’ Has Me More Invested in Mike Franks’ Story Than Gibbs’
For nearly two decades, fans of NCIS have been obsessed with Leroy Jethro Gibbs. His no-nonsense attitude, his infamous rules, and his mysterious past kept us hooked. But here’s the thing—NCIS: Origins is flipping the script.
As much as I love Gibbs, this prequel series has given me five undeniable reasons to be way more interested in Mike Franks. Surprised? Let me break it down for you.
1. Mike Franks Was the Original NCIS Maverick
Before Gibbs ever stepped into the spotlight, there was Mike Franks—a seasoned, rugged, and instinct-driven investigator. NCIS: Origins is finally giving us a deeper look into how Franks operated before taking Gibbs under his wing.
He wasn’t bound by the same strict rules Gibbs eventually adopted. He was street-smart, rough around the edges, and completely unafraid to bend (or break) the law to get justice. Seeing how he maneuvered through cases without the modern tech and resources Gibbs had later on? That’s fascinating.
2. His Mentorship Shaped Gibbs into the Legend We Know
We all admire Gibbs, but let’s be real—he didn’t just become that steely leader overnight. Franks was his teacher, his guide, and in many ways, his moral compass.
NCIS: Origins is finally giving us insight into the moments that transformed Gibbs from a green agent into the sharp, rule-breaking powerhouse we know today. Understanding Franks’ influence on Gibbs makes us appreciate his character even more.
3. A Tougher, Grittier NCIS Era
Gibbs’ timeline in NCIS was already filled with danger, but NCIS: Origins takes us even further back—to a time when investigations weren’t as streamlined, and agents had to rely on pure instincts.
Franks was out there solving cases in an era where bureaucracy wasn’t as forgiving, and everything was more dangerous. Watching him navigate the murky waters of early NCIS work, dealing with threats that Gibbs never had to face? That’s next-level storytelling.
4. We’re Finally Getting Mike Franks’ Backstory
Mike Franks was a fan favorite in NCIS, but we barely scratched the surface of who he was. He always had that “I’ve seen some things” energy, but the show never fully dived into his past.
Now, NCIS: Origins is filling in the gaps. We’re learning about his early cases, his personal struggles, and what shaped him into the man who would later become Gibbs’ mentor. It’s long overdue, and I can’t get enough.
5. Franks Operated Outside the Rules—and It Worked
Gibbs has always been a “by my own rules” kind of guy, but even he had his limits. Franks? Not so much.
He played the game differently. He wasn’t afraid to go completely off-grid if it meant getting justice. While Gibbs often struggled with the ethical gray areas, Franks fully embraced them. Seeing his unfiltered approach to NCIS work in NCIS: Origins makes me appreciate his character on a whole new level.
How ‘NCIS: Origins’ Is Changing the Way We See Gibbs and Franks
This prequel isn’t just about giving us a younger Gibbs—it’s shining a well-deserved spotlight on Mike Franks. And honestly? It’s making me question why we never got more of his story in the original series.
Gibbs has always been the face of NCIS, but NCIS: Origins proves that Franks was the backbone of everything that made Gibbs who he is. Their dynamic is the heart of this prequel, and I’m here for it.
If you’re a longtime NCIS fan, this show is an absolute must-watch—not just for Gibbs’ origins but for the deep dive into Franks’ legendary career.
Conclusion
Look, I’m still a massive Gibbs fan. But NCIS: Origins has flipped my perspective in a way I never expected. Mike Franks isn’t just a mentor—he’s a legend in his own right.
This series is finally giving him the recognition he deserves, and honestly? I’m all in. If you haven’t tuned in yet, you’re missing out on one of the best deep dives into NCIS history.
