Shea Buckner, a former Olympian and actor, is set to make his debut in the role of Dwayne “King” Pride in the popular franchise’s latest spin-off, NCIS: Origins. This new chapter of the NCIS universe will follow a younger version of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, portrayed by Austin Stowell, during his formative years with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service at Camp Pendleton.
According to Deadline, Buckner’s character will appear in one episode of the second season, where he will portray a newly minted Probationary Special Agent from the NIS Panama office. The storyline will delve into Pride’s complex history with Gibbs as they work together undercover to address unresolved tensions from their past.
Returning Characters and Nostalgic Connections
The episode will also feature the reunion of the Fed Five, a renowned group of NIS agents who gained notoriety for apprehending the infamous Privileged Killer, Spencer Hanlon, during the eleventh season of the original NCIS. This group includes notable characters such as Gibbs, originally played by Mark Harmon, and Michael Franks, who was portrayed by Muse Watson and is now played by Kyle Schmid in Origins. Other members of the Fed Five include Felix Betts and Dan McLane, the latter of whom has already met his demise in the timeline of the original series.
Earlier in the second season, NCIS: Origins celebrated the much-anticipated return of Harmon, who left the main series in 2021 but continues to serve as an executive producer for both shows. Reflecting on his return, Harmon expressed his comfort and connection to the series, stating, “And that has to do with the creative process and who you’re working with. Those two were so special as writers.”
A New Era for NCIS and its Creators
While Harmon remains undecided about further appearances beyond his cameo, he acknowledged that the creators, David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal, have plans in mind for future storylines. He emphasized the importance of allowing writers the freedom to craft narratives that resonate with the series’ legacy, stating, “I try really hard to think about what’s best for the show or what possibly can work for this show.”
The transition to NCIS: Origins mirrors the early days of the original series, which has persisted as a fan favorite for over two decades. The introduction of characters like Pride aims to enrich the backstory of a beloved franchise, ensuring that both new and returning audiences remain engaged with the evolving narrative.
As the series progresses, Buckner’s portrayal of Dwayne Pride is expected to add depth and excitement to the storyline, offering fans a glimpse into the formative years of one of NCIS‘s most cherished characters. With its blend of nostalgia and fresh talent, NCIS: Origins is poised to continue captivating audiences worldwide.
