NCIS: Showrunner Discusses Lala’s Response to Gibbs’ Killing of Pedro Hernandez: “Breach of Trust” Revealed

NCIS: Origins episode 9 delves into the complex truth surrounding Gibbs’ involvement in Pedro Hernandez’s death, as co-showrunner David J. North shares insights into Lala’s anticipated reaction upon discovering this shocking revelation. This inaugural prequel series of the NCIS universe explores the formative years of Gibbs within the agency that he dedicated three decades of his life to. Central to this narrative is the painful recounting of the tragic murders of his first wife, Shannon, and daughter, Kelly, at the hands of a cartel leader. Episode 9 brings to light the repercussions of this heinous act, shedding new light on Gibbs’ motivations for revenge.

Following the dramatic confirmation that Gibbs killed Pedro as an act of retribution, North spoke with TV Line to discuss the implications for Mike Franks’ NIS team. He particularly highlights Lala’s emotional response when she ultimately learns the truth about her teammate’s actions. While she may not chastise Gibbs for pursuing justice in his own way, North underscores that “there is a breach of trust that has to be reckoned with.” Here’s his full statement:

Lala is dealing with something that’s there that Franks clearly isn’t, which is betrayal, feeling betrayed. Lala is interesting in that, technically, Gibbs committed murder — he murdered the man who murdered his family — but I don’t think Lala judges him for that. But to be on the scene with these dudes, the one thing she needs is trust, and she really put her guard down in that hotel room when she said to Gibbs, in her first emotional moment, “I’m going to get this guy for you.” Gibbs didn’t tell her, “Well, I already got him,” so there is a breach of trust there that has to be reckoned with.

What Gibbs’ Secret Means for His Potential Romance with Lala

Lala May Be Forgiving

Lala in NCIS: Origins and Gibbs in NCIS — Custom Image by Ana Dumaraog

The prequel indicates a budding romantic relationship between these two NIS agents. After NCIS: Origins positioned Lala as a central character, it became apparent she plays a significant role in Gibbs’ ongoing story, despite his lack of prior mention in the original series. Although Mark Harmon’s narration implies Gibbs deliberately chose to remain silent on this chapter of his life while at the Navy Yard, the series must create a compelling narrative as to why that is, particularly through a potential romantic link with Lala.

While it may require time for Lala to fully trust Gibbs again, the narrative hints at a future reconciliation. Her eventual discovery of his secret could affect their evolving relationship; however, North’s remarks suggest that her understanding nature could lead to eventual forgiveness. Maintaining tension in their dynamic could be beneficial for NCIS: Origins, enhancing viewer engagement through unpredictability.

Analyzing NCIS: Origins’ Revelation About Gibbs’ Revenge

It’s the Worst-Kept Secret in NCIS

Longtime fans of the original NCIS series were already aware of Gibbs’ vengeful actions against Pedro, eagerly waiting to see this narrative unfold in the prequel. NCIS: Origins cleverly led viewers to believe the crime had yet to occur, creating some confusion with established canon. It remains to be seen if CBS’ procedural series will delve deeper into Gibbs’ planning and execution of the crime and whether he acted alone.

Source: TV Line

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