A Heartfelt Episode with Deep Emotional Layers
The December 2 episode of NCIS: Origins, titled “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” delivers a powerful emotional punch, particularly for the character of Cliff Wheeler. This episode is not just about the unfolding investigation but also delves into the personal struggles and hidden truths of the characters involved.
Mark Harmon’s voiceover as the older Gibbs in Alaska adds a layer of depth to the narrative. He reflects on Wheeler’s life, describing him as someone who spent a lot of time alone, both in his office and at home. “He was the kind of guy that spent a lot of time alone,” Harmon says. “Alone in his big office with the door shut. He spent a lot of time alone at home, too, at least that’s what I heard.” Despite being seen every day, Wheeler remains a mystery, longing for connection and understanding.
Wheeler finds this connection with Noah Oakley, played by DaJuan Johnson. Their relationship, however, is kept secret due to the societal norms of the 1990s. This secrecy leads to tension when Wheeler’s wife, Shelly, played by Lauren Bowles, discovers their relationship and leaves him. The fallout from this revelation causes Wheeler to become overwhelmed, leading him to shout out the news of his divorce in the middle of the office.
A Difficult Decision and Personal Growth
The episode also explores the challenges faced by a person of interest, played by Rick Cosnett, whose alibi involves spending the night in a hotel with another man. Wheeler is determined to report the colonel for misconduct, arguing that being gay makes him vulnerable to blackmail and a security risk. However, Mary Jo, portrayed by Tyla Abercrumbie, refuses to be involved in the situation, whether it’s connecting the call or allowing Wheeler to make it himself. She reveals she knows about the colonel’s relationship and the potential consequences, yet she believes he wouldn’t be able to forgive himself if he made the report.
Wheeler ultimately chooses not to report the colonel, echoing Mary Jo’s words about self-forgiveness. However, he does recommend Oakley for a position with a joint criminal intelligence team in D.C. This decision highlights the complex emotions surrounding his relationship with Oakley. In his closing voiceover, Mark Harmon’s Gibbs reflects on his own experiences with solitude, stating, “I spent a lot of my time alone. Alone in my kitchen eating dinner. Alone in my basement building a boat.”
New Opportunities and Personal Realizations
In addition to these developments, Vera, played by Diany Rodriguez, reveals her aspirations to lead the joint criminal intelligence team. This team would include personnel from the FBI, DEA, CID, and NIS sharing information. Lala, portrayed by Mariel Molino, is initially upset about Vera’s possible move to D.C. without consulting her. However, the tension between them is short-lived when Lala offers her support, and Vera realizes she doesn’t want to leave. Instead, she decides to set up her own NIS intelligence team.
This episode of NCIS: Origins showcases the emotional depth and personal growth of its characters. It also sets the stage for future developments, as the voiceover from Mark Harmon’s Gibbs hints at the possibility of someone joining Gibbs in Alaska. After the crossover earlier in the season, this comment could foreshadow events on the main NCIS series.
Conclusion
The latest episode of NCIS: Origins is a compelling mix of personal drama and professional challenges. It provides insight into the characters’ lives and the complexities they face. As the story unfolds, viewers are left wondering what comes next for these characters and how their relationships will evolve.
NCIS: Origins continues to captivate audiences with its engaging storytelling and deep character development. With each episode, the show builds on the foundation laid by the original NCIS series, offering new perspectives and exciting developments.
Tune in every Tuesday at 9/8c on CBS to follow the ongoing adventures of the NCIS: Origins team.
