NCIS: How Origins Can Worsen the Departure of NCIS’ Most Disliked Character 16 Years After Their Demise

NCIS: Origins, as the sole prequel in the NCIS franchise, has the potential to redefine the narrative surrounding certain characters, particularly one who met a tragic end 16 years prior. The series has already introduced younger incarnations of pivotal NCIS figures, and should it receive a renewal for a second season, we might see even more familiar characters return from the shadows of Gibbs’ past.

Having aired for over two decades, NCIS has been marked by numerous sudden character departures, often through dramatic deaths. For some characters, appearing in NCIS: Origins may be their only chance for a comeback. Take Jenny Shepard, for instance—her demise in the flagship series precludes her return, but this prequel opens doors to explore her legacy. The complex dynamics between Jenny and Gibbs could be examined more closely, creating opportunities to either enhance or diminish her character’s reputation.

Understanding Jenny Shepard’s Death in NCIS

Jenny’s Demise in Season 5, Episode 18

Jenny Shepard met her end during the high-stakes finale of NCIS Season 5, a culmination of past decisions made during her tenure as a young agent. After joining NCIS in 1999, she was involved in a mission alongside Gibbs in Paris, tasked with eliminating Svetlana, the fiancée of the notorious arms dealer Anatoly. However, Jenny’s emotional conflict prevented her from completing the assignment, leading to dire consequences.

Nine years later, a vengeful Svetlana resurfaced, targeting Jenny’s former team members—starting with Jenny’s old handler. In a desperate bid to protect Gibbs, Jenny opted to conceal Svetlana’s return and sought assistance from Mike Franks of NCIS. In a subsequent encounter that spiraled into chaos, Jenny fell victim in a shootout, while Franks managed to eliminate Svetlana. This abrupt end to Jenny’s character remains one of the more controversial departures within the series.

Despite the dramatic climax of her death, the effect on Gibbs has often been perceived as lackluster. Viewers expected Jenny’s loss to produce a heavier emotional toll, especially given their complex history, but it did not seem to significantly alter Gibbs’ path, highlighting a missed opportunity for deeper character exploration.

Exploring Gibbs and Jenny’s Relationship in NCIS: Origins

The Context of Her Death Adds Emotional Weight

As the narrative of NCIS: Origins delves into Gibbs’ formative years, there lies an opportunity to intricately weave Jenny and Gibbs’ backstory. Previous segments of NCIS have touched upon their romantic interlude in Paris, enhancing the backstory of their relationship. The series has started unraveling character complexities, promising a deeper dive into their connections, which were only sketched in the original series.

However, portraying Jenny in this prequel may also exacerbate the impact of her death in NCIS, transforming it into a more poignant experience for audiences. As the story unfolds, knowledge of Jenny’s inevitable fate will loom over every exchange, transforming moments of fondness into reminders of loss.

The Reasons Behind Lauren Holly’s Departure

Holly’s Desire for New Opportunities

Lauren Holly as Jenny Shepard looking worried in NCIS

Despite the dramatic nature of Jenny’s exit and her crucial role within NCIS, Lauren Holly expressed satisfaction with her decision to leave. She revealed that while she enjoyed the character, her enthusiasm began to wane, leading her to seek diverse acting opportunities, as highlighted in an interview with Digital Spy.

Interestingly, it appears the decision for Jenny’s storyline to conclude was mutual, stemming from a shared desire between Holly and the writers to shift her character’s trajectory. Jenny Shepard, a remarkable figure as one of the rare female directors within NCIS, left a lasting impression. Her potential re-emergence in NCIS: Origins would undoubtedly captivate fans and offer expansive narrative possibilities.

Source: Digital Spy

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