Warning! This article contains spoilers for NCIS: Origins season 1, episode 9, “Vivo o Muerto.“NCIS: Originshas introduced several plot holes into theNCISuniversesince its premiere in October, but its latest twist revealed that not everything is as it seems.NCIS: Originsepisode 9showed Gibbs and Lala teaming up to investigate a missing persons case that leads them to Tijuana, Mexico. While there, they learn thatthe case has larger ties to a human trafficking ring led by the Reynosa cartel, the infamous organization that is directly related to the deaths of Gibbs' wife and daughter.
Lala immediately called in the rest of the team for backup, since the case’s connection to the cartel only increased the stakes for Gibbs.The trafficking ring could finally lead to the capture of the leader of the cartel, Pedro Hernandez, and help Gibbs achieve justice for Shannon and Kelly. Previousepisodes ofNCIS: Originsrevealed that Gibbshad tried but failed to track down Hernandez to avenge the deaths of his family. It was always implied that Gibbs' change in demeanor was because of his growth around his loss, but the latest reveal about Hernandez implies something different.
NCIS: Origins Confirmed That Gibbs Did Kill Hernandez Before Joining NIS
Gibbs Kept Hernandez’s Murder A Secret From His Team
In the final moments ofNCIS: Originsepisode 9, Lala learns thatHernandez was killed 6 months ago by a sniper. A Reynosa cartel member tells her that the cartel just covered up his death to not look weak to the others. When Lala shares this information with Gibbs and Franks, nothing else is said, but a slight smile appears on Gibbs' face, revealing that he already knew that because he was the sniper.
While Lala is angry and Franks just stares blankly at Gibbs, it is clear that they both understand that Gibbs is the killer.
While Lala is angry and Franks just stares blankly at Gibbs, it is clear that they both understand thatGibbs is the killer.The reactions of Lala and Franks at that moment reveal that they did not know that Hernandez was dead, and their differing reactions also reveal their compassion towards Gibbs. Lala is angry that Gibbs did not trust her enough to tell her, but Franks understands. Franks' reaction towards Tish’s abuse even implies that he would probably do the same thing if he were in Gibbs' situation.
The Secret Made For A Better Reveal
A deeper look into Hernandez’s murder was one of the most anticipatedNCIS: Originsstoriesfollowing the original show. The deaths ofGibbs' wife and daughterare so important to Gibbs' persona thathis act of vengeance is one of the best Gibbs moments, as it truly reveals Gibbs' character. Implying that Hernandez had not been killed yet at the start ofNCIS: Originsmade for an exciting mystery forNCISfans to follow, given the significance of the moment.
All Of Gibbs' Rules In NCIS (& What They Mean)
Leroy Jethro Gibbs lives by a code of rules in NCIS, guiding him and his team through complex and challenging situations throughout the CBS series.
Keeping Hernandez’s death a secret inNCIS: Originsalso aligned with Gibbs' values. He keeps things to himself and only shares when it is absolutely necessary. Moreover, his reserved nature is symbolic of his rule #4: “The best way to keep a secret? Keep it to yourself.” While killing Hernandez was likely a full-circle moment for Gibbs, it was also incredibly painful because it symbolized all the loss in his life. It made sense for him not to tell anyone.
NCIS: Origins
Cast
NCIS: Origins is set in 1991, preceding the events of the original series. The series introduces Leroy Jethro Gibbs as a new special agent at NCIS Camp Pendleton. Under the leadership of NCIS legend Mike Franks, Gibbs navigates his role within a tenacious, unconventional team.
