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NCIS: Origins - Gibbs' Untold Story & the Mysterious Lala Dominguez

NCIS: Origins – Lala's Secret Impact on Gibbs' Life!

NCIS: Origins: A Prequel That Rewrites Gibbs' Story

NCIS: Origins is a new prequel series; and this time it involves that well-known character Leroy Jethro Gibbs; showing us just what happened before those other episodes showed the well-known main NCIS storylines and that same, well-loved and extremely experienced NCIS character; and his initial journey as a young agent back in the early 1990s! The original Mark Harmon, and Austin Stowell portraying the young Gibbs.  While it showcases that beloved older Gibbs (Mark Harmon) appears mainly as the narrator; those earlier parts show how important it was for those earlier parts to showcase his past.  There’s a new character to introduce and changes some significant perceptions within those main NCIS storylines! A new series which would surely become the next sensation, bringing even newer viewers into this fanbase!

This prequel series, showcases Gibbs’s training under Mike Franks, which shows new characters, especially one who doesn't actually show up within those main storylines; creating more intrigue around the world of NCIS.   Mariel Molino’s Lala Dominguez—a key member in Gibbs’ early team— is utterly absent from the original show!  And as we’ll soon find out, the original series now has additional and very intriguing thematic consequences based on some unexpected changes that a prequel makes possible.

Also Read: NCIS: Origins - Everything You Need to Know About the Gibbs Prequel

Lala and Gibbs: A First Taste of Bourbon and a Developing Connection

Austin Stowell as Leroy Jethro Gibbs and Mariel Molino as Cecilia “Lala” Dominguez in NCIS: Origins Image

We see an older Gibbs (Mark Harmon), a beloved character, and discover more regarding what kind of a person Gibbs was at his earlier points;  especially during that earlier point; those events surrounding the beginning of his professional life! This article presents those interesting parts of his initial adventures which would greatly shape him and impact his overall character arc for the better. The earlier parts involved a younger Gibbs (Austin Stowell) completely devastated by a very intense personal loss: The loss of his family; the grief-stricken Gibbs is completely shown, demonstrating a very unique take; which greatly emphasizes the development he'd eventually achieve later! It is really during one particular scene during that very first hang-out—we see Lala (Mariel Molino) offer Gibbs his first ever bourbon. This isn't friendly; it demonstrates that Lala has complicated feelings towards him—admiration; possibly competition but mostly deep sympathy which creates several plot opportunities going forward.

This small event would add something to how the main NCIS story unfolds and it adds another layer.  That little moment becomes extremely significant!

Also Read: NCIS: Origins - Dive Deep Into Gibbs's Past in This New Series!

Lala’s Hidden Impact: A New Perspective on Gibbs’ Past

Mark Harmon as Leroy Jethro Gibbs in NCIS Image

Gibbs remains rather private throughout NCIS, despite several emotional moments and flashbacks highlighting specific details in that emotional development that shaped him.  That mysterious background adds intensity which created some profound consequences and a large focus for many seasons, leading to unexpected emotional reveals which add to this series overall depth! Introducing Lala adds layers.   Their relationship's hint at something romantic creates potential storylines. (Remember that initial casting reports for Molino suggested that role. ) And that bourbon scene?

The creators use this subtle element to create more meaning around those existing events; showing that Gibbs' love for bourbon; it might not have initially seemed all that significant within NCIS; might also be some kind of memory or homage to Lala!   That suggests more importance behind Lala, demonstrating another clever strategic plot element. She becomes critical in Gibbs’ personal story even though absent! Even Gibbs remarks this!

Also Read: NCIS: Origins - A Prequel Exploring Gibbs' Early Days

Conclusion: The Prequel that Enriches the Original NCIS Story

The cast of NCIS season 20 walks forward above show title in promotional poster Image

NCIS: Origins showcases the power of a good prequel series— that which delivers deeper emotional contexts and new stories without changing much of the main storyline it is derived from. The prequel here not only reveals Gibbs' earlier days—it actually reshapes existing NCIS episodes, showing a hidden element in Gibbs' past that’s surprisingly critical to understand!

While Lala's presence might remain small at this point, introducing her at this crucial stage has tremendous impacts.  Her influence, unseen in the main series creates a much more emotionally resonant understanding of that enigmatic, well-known and deeply complex Gibbs character; adding important details in his character development! NCIS fans would not want to miss this series, a deeply rewarding dive into that enigmatic NCIS world!

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