NCIS: Origins Showrunner Discusses Mike Franks’ Character Development in Season 1’s Second Half: “The Reality Is…”

This article discusses sensitive topics related to sexual assault.

Insights into Mike Franks’ Narrative Arc in NCIS: Origins

David J. North, the showrunner for NCIS: Origins, has shed light on the upcoming developments in Mike Franks’ storyline during the second half of the inaugural season. Franks, a character initially brought to life by Muse Watson in the original NCIS series, will now be portrayed by Kyle Schmid. This iteration of Franks serves as the team leader at Camp Pendleton, spearheading various critical operations while navigating his personal relationships, particularly with his girlfriend, Tish, played by Tonantzin Carmelo.

Franks’ Upcoming Mission: A Drive for Justice

In a recent interview with TVLine, North revealed a compelling twist in Franks’ character arc. The focus of the latter part of season 1 will shift towards Franks’ relentless pursuit of the individual responsible for Tish’s assault, an incident that has left her grappling with deep psychological wounds. North emphasized Franks’ internal struggle, stating that Tish’s wish for him to let the matter rest is at odds with his instinct to seek retribution against the person who harmed her. North articulates this conflict poignantly:

Mike is going to be dealing with a personal issue of his own. Tish asked him to leave it alone when it comes to the guy who assaulted her, but the reality is that not pursuing the person who hurt his person is a difficult thing for Franks to do.

Implications of Franks’ Mission Going Forward

Driven by Love and Vengeance

The gravity of Tish’s assault was first unveiled in season 1, episode 7, during a pivotal moment when she implores Franks to abandon his search for her assailant. However, Franks’ love for Tish and a thirst for justice propel him forward, making it clear that this storyline will be a critical component of his journey in NCIS: Origins. North hints at the complexity of this mission, which is compounded by the lack of concrete leads, suggesting a potentially prolonged search.

Interestingly, Tish’s plea for Franks to halt his investigation indicates her struggle with the trauma, pushing her to confront a painful past. Yet, Franks shows determination, even enlisting Vera (Diany Rodriguez) for psychological insights about Tish. North’s confirmation that Franks will not relent hints at an unfolding narrative rich with dramatic possibilities that could extend into a second season.

Expert Commentary on Franks’ Ongoing Saga

Potential Discoveries Awaiting Franks

As Franks’ investigation intensifies, the potential revelations surrounding Tish’s assailant could deliver shocking outcomes, possibly challenging Franks in unforeseen ways. The anticipation surrounding the unfolding storyline has been meticulously cultivated throughout the season, emphasizing the character’s growth and relaying themes of love and conflict. North’s remarks assure viewers that this narrative will remain in the spotlight, while the specifics of Franks’ discoveries remain tantalizingly undisclosed.

Fans can catch the continuation of this compelling saga when NCIS: Origins returns with season 1, episode 11, titled “Flight of Icarus,”airing on Monday, January 27, at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.

Source: TVLine

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