NCIS: Origins returned with a midseason winter premiere that gave us some insights into Mike Franks’ background. It was our first look into who Franks was before he became an NCIS agent and it made for a fun episode to watch, despite the heartbreaking case the team was looking into.
Normally we get to see the show focus on Austin Stowell’s Agent Gibbs, but it was Kyle Schmid’s time to shine. When Mike’s well-worn favorite boots broke, it looked like it was going to be a lost cause and he wouldn’t be able to wear them anymore.
We learned he received the boots from his older brother, Mason. They lived with his mother on a ranch and it seemed as though they were very close. Throughout the episode, the audience learned that Mike was drafted and Mason was ready to figure out how to keep his brother from going overseas.
Fans learn more about Mike Franks in new Origins
Eventually, Mason realized he couldn’t prevent Mike from going, but he could go with him as they headed into the Marines. This raised the question of what happened to Mason afterward. It isn’t clear if he ended up dying during their time in the Marines, especially since he has been mentioned before in the original NCIS.
Apparently, he and Mike eventually married the same woman, though whether we learn about that particular story remains to be seen. Based on Mike caring for the boots after so many years, he has a lot of feelings about his brother and their history.
The case also helped Mike aid in allowing a grieving father to understand what happened to his son. Their victim, Cameron, was the son of a decorated Marine Commander, but it was difficult for him to live up to someone he admired and respected.
Franks continues to be one of the show's standouts
Mike had experience in finding it hard to say no to someone you loved, having done that when he refused to let Mason keep him from entering the services. NCIS: Origins has done a great job of weaving everyone’s storylines together and getting to know more about Mike Franks is always a treat for the fans.
There were some lighter moments in the episode, such as Randy trying to set Gibbs up with a friend of his wife’s. However, it hasn’t been that long for Gibbs since he lost Shannon, so he isn’t ready to date. Of course, we also know eventually he will meet his second wife, Diane Sterling. Will she make an appearance anytime soon? Only time will tell.
Hopefully the show continues to let us in on everyone’s background, especially Lala Dominguez since her role in Gibbs’s life continues to remain a mystery. Now that NCIS: Origins is back, we’re looking forward to following the characters for the rest of the season.
Make sure to tune in to NCIS: Origins on CBS Mondays at 10/9c.