Introduction
The buzz surrounding “NCIS: Origins” is palpable. Fans are eager to delve into the past, witnessing the formative years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs and other beloved characters. But with this prequel comes the potential to shed light on other, perhaps lesser-known, figures from the wider “NCIS” universe. One name that has sparked speculation, a name whispered among some corners of the fanbase, is Lala. Is Lala, a character whose existence is implied but rarely explicitly detailed, dead during the timeline of “NCIS: Origins”?
This question, seemingly minor on the surface, holds the potential to unlock significant backstories and emotional resonance within the NCIS mythos. Perhaps Lala was a close friend of Gibbs, a romantic interest, or someone who profoundly impacted a member of the team. Whatever her connection, her fate could provide vital context for understanding the motivations and personalities of characters we’ve grown to know and love.
This article will explore the available evidence, however scarce it may be, and dissect the various theories surrounding Lala’s potential role in “NCIS: Origins.” We will analyze the timeline of the prequel, consider which characters are confirmed or rumored to appear, and speculate on the possible impact of Lala’s story, whether she’s alive and well or a tragic memory, on the overall narrative.
What We Know About Lala (So Far)
The truth is, the information available on Lala is frustratingly limited. She isn’t a character who enjoyed significant screentime or a prominent arc in the original “NCIS” series. Her existence is primarily inferred through fleeting mentions or off-hand references, leaving fans to piece together fragments of information like detectives themselves.
Because of this scarcity, it’s difficult to definitively state what her relationship was to the main characters. The vagueness surrounding Lala’s place in the NCIS universe allows writers maximum creative freedom. This creates many speculative stories that can be made regarding her fate. While exciting it also brings about challenges.
Digging through episode transcripts and forums dedicated to “NCIS” lore, one may find mentions of Gibbs speaking about past friendships or old cases. It is within these fleeting comments and nuanced expressions that viewers can create theories about who she was and what she meant to the agent.
“NCIS: Origins” Timeline and Character Availability
“NCIS: Origins” is set to transport us back to the early years of Gibbs’ career as a young agent at NIS (Naval Investigative Service), the precursor to NCIS, stationed at Camp Pendleton in , California, in the year nineteen ninety-one. This timeline is crucial because it allows for a clean slate, a chance to rewrite or re-contextualize elements of Gibbs’ past that were only alluded to in the original series.
The prequel promises to feature familiar faces in their younger incarnations. We know that a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs will be at the forefront, portrayed by Austin Stowell. It is highly probable that Mike Franks, Gibbs’ mentor, will also play a significant role, helping the audience understand the origin of Gibbs’ well known rules. These character reappearances mean that the writers of NCIS: Origins have the possibility to address topics and characters from the original that are not explained in depth. Characters like Lala.
Considering this timeframe, we can deduce that any character who was a significant part of Gibbs’ life during the nineteen nineties or earlier has the potential to appear in “NCIS: Origins.” This includes Lala. The question then shifts from *if* she could appear to *how* she could appear. Is she a contemporary of Gibbs, a colleague, or someone from his past whose story is relevant to his present development? Or is she already dead at the start of “NCIS: Origins”, with her passing being a formative event in his life?
Theories and Speculation Regarding Lala’s Fate
Given the limited concrete information, the discussion surrounding Lala’s fate inevitably turns to theories and speculation. While some may dismiss this as mere fan fiction, it’s important to remember that these theories are often rooted in careful observation and analysis of the existing “NCIS” canon. Here are a few possibilities:
Lala is alive and a recurring character in “Origins”
This is perhaps the most optimistic scenario. In this version, Lala is introduced as a colleague, friend, or love interest of Gibbs during his early years at NIS. Her presence could provide valuable insight into Gibbs’ personal life and his development as an investigator. She could be a seasoned agent who mentors him or a civilian who challenges his worldview. Maybe she is the reason for his later relationships or a person that shaped his ability to be such a good investigator. However, this scenario also raises the question of why she was never mentioned in more detail in the original “NCIS.” The writers would need to provide a compelling reason for this omission.
Lala is already dead at the start of “Origins,” and her death is a significant event
This theory aligns with the darker, more tragic aspects of Gibbs’ backstory. Perhaps Lala was a victim of a crime that Gibbs investigated, or perhaps she was involved in a dangerous mission that went wrong. Her death could serve as a pivotal moment that shapes Gibbs’ dedication to justice and his distrust of certain individuals or institutions. This theory also opens the door for flashbacks, allowing the show to explore Lala’s character even if she’s deceased in the main timeline. This theory could explain why her name is only mentioned briefly. Maybe the loss was so great that nobody wanted to mention her name.
Lala appears in flashbacks or as a figure in Gibbs’ memories
Even if Lala isn’t alive during the primary “Origins” timeline, she could still play a role through flashbacks. These flashbacks could reveal key moments in Gibbs’ past, highlighting his relationship with Lala and the impact she had on him. This approach allows the writers to explore her character without necessarily committing to a specific outcome for her in the present.
Lala is intentionally left ambiguous or unnamed
The writers might choose to keep Lala’s identity and fate a mystery. They could introduce a character who embodies certain traits or characteristics associated with “Lala” without explicitly naming her. This allows them to explore the themes and emotions connected to Lala’s story without being bound by pre-existing expectations. Perhaps Lala is used as inspiration for the show without being in the show.
Potential Impact of Lala’s Story on “NCIS: Origins”
Regardless of which theory proves to be true, Lala’s story has the potential to significantly impact “NCIS: Origins.”
Character Development
Lala’s fate could be a catalyst for Gibbs’ transformation into the stoic, rule-bound agent we know from the original series. If she dies, it could explain his aversion to personal relationships and his unwavering commitment to solving cases. If she’s a mentor, she could be the one who instills in him the values and principles that guide his actions.
Context and Motivation
Lala’s story could provide context for Gibbs’ past actions and decisions in the original “NCIS.” Perhaps a case in “Origins” mirrors a past event involving Lala, triggering a specific reaction or response from Gibbs. Understanding her story could deepen our appreciation for the complexities of his character. Her story can be what motivates Gibbs to be the best version of himself and the best agent that he can be.
Emotional Resonance
The introduction of Lala, regardless of her fate, has the potential to add significant emotional depth to “NCIS: Origins.” Her story could be a source of heartbreak, inspiration, or both, resonating with viewers who are invested in the characters and their journeys. It can pull on the viewers heartstrings.
Conclusion
So, is Lala dead on “NCIS: Origins”? The answer, for now, remains elusive. The limited information available leaves us with more questions than answers. However, by examining the existing canon, analyzing the prequel’s timeline, and exploring various theories, we can begin to appreciate the potential significance of this seemingly minor character.
Whether she’s a vibrant presence in Gibbs’ early life, a tragic figure from his past, or a lingering memory that haunts his present, Lala’s story has the potential to enrich the narrative of “NCIS: Origins” and deepen our understanding of the iconic characters we’ve come to love. The writers may decide to never truly answer the question regarding Lala, making her fate a mystery that is only told in bits and pieces. How her storyline will pan out is something that fans are excited for. Ultimately, how the writers resolve this question could have profound implications for the entire “NCIS” franchise, offering new perspectives on old stories and adding layers of complexity to the characters we thought we knew so well.
The anticipation surrounding “NCIS: Origins” is not just about revisiting familiar faces but also about uncovering hidden stories and unraveling the mysteries of the past. Lala’s story, whatever it may be, represents a crucial piece of that puzzle, waiting to be discovered.
