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The recent episode of NCIS: Origins left fans stunned as Gary Callahan, the canine hero, was grievously injured during an operation. But did he pull through?
In the episode airing on Tuesday, April 7, viewers were treated to flashbacks that revealed how Gary came into the life of Franks, played by Kyle Schmid. Fast forward to the present day, the duo was in hot pursuit of a suspect when tragedy struck, leaving Gary with a severe stab wound. The injury caused significant nerve damage in his hind legs, leading the veterinarian to conclude he might never walk again.
The episode concluded with a poignant juxtaposition of Gary’s induction ceremony and his retirement. Defying the odds, Gary managed to stand and receive his medal, honoring his bravery and dedication. He will continue his service, splitting his time between Franks on weekends and Herm during the weekdays.
“Maybe it was just grit or hell, or maybe it was a miracle, but in that moment, Gary Callahan stood up and took his first steps — for the second time,” narrated Mark Harmon as Gibbs, capturing the touching moment.
While human stars often dominate the credits of popular TV shows, it’s frequently their furry co-stars who capture the audience’s hearts. Comet, the charming golden retriever from Full House, became a beloved television pet, showcasing that animal companions often leave an indelible mark in sitcom history.
NCIS: Origins, which premiered in October 2024, follows a young Gibbs — a role originated by Mark Harmon — years prior to the events of NCIS. The new series picks up less than a year after Gibbs’ wife and daughter were killed. During season 1, Gibbs started a new job as a special agent at the NIS Camp Pendleton office while still dealing with the aftermath of losing his family.
“That was really our ultimate goal from the start was to make a show that the fans of the original show loved and felt satisfied by. But [it is] also [a show] that new viewers can come in from the beginning of NCIS: Origins,” cocreator Gina Monreal explained to Us Weekly in April 2025. “Viewers can jump in and not be confused and really get on board with our characters and their stories. We’ve always approached it from that point of view. I feel like we’ve succeeded.”
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She continued: “We’re really keen on sticking to canon [events]. We’re strict about that. We want to pay respect to the mothership. We both have written on the mothership and do love that show. But we also love branching out into our new characters and digging into their emotional lives.”
At the time, Monreal and cocreator David J. North talked about how they were able to explore everything they planned in season 1 — but there was one idea they want to expand on.
“Special Agent Gary Callahan — or K-9 Special Agent — we could have got more of him in there. So we need more flashbacks,” North quipped. “Maybe that’s the next spinoff. NCIS: Gary Callahan.”
NCIS: Origins airs Tuesdays to CBS at 9 p.m. ET.