Fans of the NCIS franchise eagerly anticipate the introduction of Shea Buckner as the new Dwayne “King” Pride in the upcoming season of NCIS: Origins. Buckner will portray the younger version of the character originally played by Scott Bakula from 2014 to 2021. This spin-off series focuses on the early years of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by Austin Stowell, during his tenure at the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) at Camp Pendleton.
The second season of NCIS: Origins will feature Buckner in a significant role, appearing in one episode as Pride, a newly minted Probationary Special Agent from the NIS Panama office. The character has a complex history with Gibbs, and the two must confront their past as they undertake an undercover mission.
In addition to Buckner’s appearance, the episode will also bring back the Fed Five task force, a group of skilled NIS agents known for unmasking the Privileged Killer, Spencer Hanlon, during the original series’ eleventh season. The Fed Five includes Gibbs, Pride, and Michael Franks, originally portrayed by Muse Watson and now played by Kyle Schmid. The group also features Felix Betts, previously played by Stuart Margolin, as well as Dan McLane, who is deceased by the time of the original series.
The recent announcement follows a notable cameo by Mark Harmon, who left NCIS in 2021 but remains an executive producer for both series. In a conversation with TV Insider, Harmon expressed his comfort returning to the NCIS universe, citing the positive collaborative environment fostered by creators David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal. He described the set as a “comfortable spot,” reflecting on the long-standing relationships built over two decades.
Harmon indicated that while he is uncertain about the likelihood of further appearances, he appreciates the creative input of the show’s creators. “They had an idea and I liked the idea,” he said, acknowledging the challenges of developing a new series. Harmon emphasized the importance of allowing the creators to express their vision, noting that the process of building a show is inherently difficult.
Buckner’s casting marks an exciting development for NCIS fans as the franchise continues to explore its rich history. With its blend of established characters and fresh talent, NCIS: Origins aims to captivate audiences while paying homage to beloved storylines. The new season is set to deliver a mix of nostalgia and intrigue, appealing to both longtime followers and newcomers alike.
As the series develops, viewers can look forward to seeing how Buckner’s portrayal of Dwayne Pride will shape the narrative and enhance the character’s legacy within the NCIS universe. The anticipation surrounding this new chapter underscores the enduring popularity of the franchise, which continues to evolve while maintaining its core elements of crime-solving and character-driven storytelling.
