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NCIS: Origins Cast and Their Real-Life Relationships

10/22/2025, 3:35:55 PM

Overview of the Series and Its Cast

"NCIS: Origins," which premiered in October 2024, serves as a prequel to the long-running "NCIS" series. Set in 1991, it follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by Austin Stowell, as he embarks on his career with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) at Camp Pendleton. Mark Harmon, who played Gibbs for 19 seasons on "NCIS," now narrates the prequel. The show has quickly established itself as CBS's fifth spinoff of the popular franchise.

Real-Life Relationships of the Cast

The cast of "NCIS: Origins" features several actors in committed relationships. Mark Harmon has been married to actress Pam Dawber since March 1987, and they share two sons, Sean and Ty. Harmon attributes the success of their marriage to communication and laughter, stating, "We share many things, and yet we're really different."

Austin Stowell, who plays the young Gibbs, humorously remarked about his current focus on work, saying, “I’m in a relationship with a TV show.” He expressed that he seeks a kind partner when he resumes dating.

Kyle Schmid, portraying Special Agent Mike Franks, married actress Caity Lotz in February 2023, and they have a daughter together. Schmid publicly celebrated Lotz's birthday, expressing his deep affection for her. Meanwhile, Mariel Molino, who plays Special Agent Lala Dominguez, is currently single, describing herself as a "mysterious gal."

Tyla Abercrumbie, portraying Officer Mary Jo Sullivan, reflects on the complexities of love, noting that real-life relationships often differ from idealized portrayals in movies. Diany Rodriguez, who plays Special Agent Vera Strickland, has been in a long-term relationship with Lee Lyons for over a decade, while Caleb Foote, playing Special Agent Bernard Randolf, is dating therapist Reagan Jobie.

Patrick Fischler, who plays SAC Cliff Wheeler, has been married to actress Lauren Bowles since March 2005, and they share a daughter. Bowles is set to appear as Fischler's on-screen wife in an upcoming episode of "NCIS: Origins."

Celebrity Visit and Impact on the Show

On October 15, 2024, the set of "NCIS: Origins" received a surprise visit from Hollywood star Tom Cruise. Executive producer David J. North shared that Cruise's visit was both exciting and supportive, particularly as the show's bar, Daly’s, was inspired by the bar from Cruise's film "Top Gun." North noted that Cruise provided advice to the cast, including Caleb Foote, who inquired about performing stunts.

Conclusion

The cast of "NCIS: Origins" not only navigates the dramatic storylines of their characters but also maintains rich personal lives off-screen. With a mix of long-term relationships and new beginnings, the actors embody a blend of commitment and humor, paralleling the themes of love and partnership explored in the series. As the show continues to develop, the involvement of notable figures like Tom Cruise adds an exciting dimension to its growing legacy.