Behind-the-scenes changes are coming to one of CBS’s newest hit series.
Gina Lucita Monreal, co-showrunner of “NCIS: Origins,” will be stepping away from her role at the conclusion of Season 2.
Her departure marks a significant shift for the prequel series, which just secured a Season 3 renewal last week.
Co-showrunner David J. North will continue steering the ship solo as the series moves forward.
A Gracious Exit From a Beloved “NCIS” Family Member
CBS executives expressed gratitude for Monreal’s contributions to launching the prequel series. CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach and CBS Studios President David Stapf issued a joint statement acknowledging her impact.
Gina has been an important beloved member of the ‘NCIS’ family for many years. We are incredibly grateful to her for helping launch and steer ‘NCIS: Origins,’ and bringing these incredible characters and stories to life.
Network leadership made clear this isn’t goodbye forever. They emphasized looking forward to future collaborations with Monreal on new projects and expressed confidence in the creative foundation she helped establish.
Monreal Reflects on Career-Defining Opportunity
Monreal herself shared warm sentiments about her time developing and running “NCIS: Origins.” Her statement highlighted both professional accomplishments and personal relationships forged during production.
It’s been the biggest honor of my career to write ‘NCIS: Origins’ alongside my incredible co-showrunner and friend David North.
She specifically thanked network executives and expressed particular appreciation for working with Mark Harmon and Sean Harmon. Monreal also praised the writing team, cast, and crew assembled for the series.
To have had this opportunity to work again with the incomparable Mark Harmon, Sean Harmon, our writers, and the best cast and crew in the business — how lucky am I? I can’t wait to see what this extraordinary group cooks up for Season 3.
What “NCIS: Origins” Brings to Franchise
The prequel series explores fan-favorite character Leroy Jethro Gibbs during his formative years. Austin Stowell portrays young Gibbs as he navigates early cases as a Navy investigator throughout the 1990s.
This origin story fills in crucial backstory for one of television’s most iconic law enforcement characters. Fans of the original “NCIS” finally get answers about what shaped Gibbs into the legendary agent they came to know.
Monreal’s Impressive Television Career
Monreal brought substantial experience to “NCIS: Origins” before co-creating the series. She previously worked as both writer and producer on the flagship “NCIS” series, establishing deep familiarity with the franchise’s tone and characters.
TVLine recognized Monreal’s rising influence by naming her one of their Women to Watch last year. Her television credits extend beyond the “NCIS” universe, including work on “Paradise” and “Griselda.”
Co-creating a successful prequel to one of television’s longest-running dramas represents a significant achievement. Monreal helped craft a series that satisfied longtime fans while attracting new viewers unfamiliar with Gibbs’ later career.
David North Takes Sole Control
North will assume full showrunner responsibilities beginning with Season 3 production. His continued leadership provides continuity as the series transitions away from its dual-showrunner structure.
Both Monreal and North co-created “NCIS: Origins” together and have guided the series since its inception. Their collaborative vision established the show’s creative direction through its first two seasons.
North now faces the challenge of maintaining momentum while putting his singular stamp on future episodes. The recent Season 3 renewal demonstrates network confidence in the series’ trajectory.
What Season 3 Holds for Viewers
CBS’s renewal decision last week confirmed “NCIS: Origins” will continue exploring young Gibbs’ investigations. Season 2 will conclude under Monreal’s co-leadership before North assumes sole control.
Monreal’s exit statement expressed genuine excitement about what the team will create moving forward. Her enthusiasm suggests confidence in North’s ability to continue developing compelling storylines.
The transition comes at a moment of stability rather than crisis. Strong ratings and renewal provide breathing room for creative adjustments without pressure from cancellation concerns.
Industry Standard Leadership Shifts
Showrunner departures midway through successful series runs happen regularly in television production. Creative professionals often move between projects as opportunities arise or personal circumstances change.
Monreal’s departure appears amicable based on statements from all parties involved. Network executives specifically mentioned future collaborations, suggesting professional relationships remain intact.
Co-showrunner arrangements sometimes evolve into single-showrunner structures as series mature. North’s familiarity with every aspect of production positions him well for solo leadership.
Legacy Within “NCIS” Universe
Monreal leaves “NCIS: Origins” with two seasons establishing the show’s identity completed. Her contributions helped launch a prequel that earned quick renewal in an increasingly competitive television landscape.
Successfully expanding the “NCIS” franchise backward in time required careful attention to continuity and character development. Monreal and North crafted a young Gibbs that honors Mark Harmon’s iconic portrayal while giving Stowell room to create his own interpretation.
CBS’s confidence in offering future projects signals Monreal’s value extends beyond this single series. Whatever comes next, she’s proven capable of handling high-profile franchise television.