NCIS Secrets: Actors Playing Roles?!

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Initially, NCIS emerged as a spin-off from the popular show JAG and has since grown into a complex entity within the police procedural genre. The initial NCIS series gave birth to an impressive five spin-offs – NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, NCIS: Hawai’i, NCIS: Sydney, and more recently, NCIS: Origins. With countless episodes across these shows, it’s not unexpected that the actors have participated in numerous crossover appearances.

Many well-known TV personalities who initially appeared on either “JAG” or the original “NCIS” have gone on to play distinct roles in various series set within the same universe, showcasing their versatility and wide-ranging acting abilities. The following list focuses on 10 notable “NCIS” actors who have successfully taken on multiple characters across the “NCIS” franchise. Some may be instantly recognizable, while others might surprise you.

Check out these 10 actors from NCIS and JAG who might be familiar to you, as they’ve portrayed various characters within the same fictional world.

10
Diany Rodriguez

In the realm of television, Diany Rodriguez made her debut in the criminal drama series, “The Blacklist,” alongside James Spader. Later on, she ventured into the NCIS universe through “NCIS: New Orleans.” Her character was DHS Agent Garcia, which she portrayed in season 4, episode 1, titled “Rogue Nation.” During this time, she worked with Scott Bakula’s Special Agent-in-Charge Dwayne Cassius Pride. After a brief stint, she went back to the NCIS franchise for a more substantial role in an unspecified series, likely “NCIS: Origins.

In the spin-off focusing on Gibbs’ early years, Rodriguez plays Vera Strickland – a clever, tough, and resolute agent who played a pivotal role in assembling the NCIS team. Over 17 episodes, her character bridges the gap between the franchise’s history and current state, providing valuable insights into the team’s development.

9
Alicia Coppola

I’m one of those actors who has worked on shows like JAG and NCIS spin-offs. Making a comeback as Lieutenant Commander Faith Coleman, originally introduced in the first season, eighteenth episode of NCIS titled “UnSEALed”. This episode revolves around a former SEAL petty officer, now a prisoner, who manages to escape from Fort Leavenworth. The team, led by Gibbs, ponders whether he was unjustly convicted. I reappear in two more episodes of NCIS Season 2.

Coppola’s adventure in NCIS doesn’t stop there; she moves to NCIS: Los Angeles, appearing as FBI Agent Lisa Rand in Season 2, Episode 5, titled “Little Angels”. In this episode, the team uncovers a kidnapping case involving the teenage daughter of a Navy commander. Coppola seamlessly adopts the role and continues to play it for four more episodes across various seasons, with her final appearance in Season 14.

8
Scott Lawrence

Scott Lawrence is an exceptionally talented and adaptable actor whose career extends across several decades. He’s made lasting impressions on television shows, movies, and video games alike. However, he may be most recognized for his performance as Commander Sturgis Turner in JAG, where his intelligence and charisma added richness to many pivotal scenes. Lawrence’s abilities extend beyond the confines of the small screen; he has provided voiceovers for legendary characters, such as Darth Vader in various Star Wars video games.

In relation to the NCIS series, Lawrence made his debut in Season 8, episode 14, titled “A Man Walks Into a Bar,” portraying Navy Captain Thomas Lind. During an evaluation of the NCIS team, he was also interviewed. Later on, he reappeared in NCIS: Hawai’i in Season 1, episode 6, titled “The Game,” playing Judge Malcolm Keen. Fans of the franchise recognize him due to his prior involvement in the NCIS universe, stemming from his early role in JAG.

7
Michael Nouri

Michael Nouri, a veteran actor renowned for his memorable portrayal of Nick Hurley in the 1983 hit Flashdance, and an impressive stint on Broadway as King Marchan opposite Julie Andrews in Victoria/Victoria, has consistently delivered captivating performances throughout his career. His path with the NCIS series started with a recurring role, debuting as Mossad Director Eli David in Season 6, Episode 1, “Last Man Standing.

Eli David, Ziva David’s father, is a crucial figure whose actions and decisions significantly shape the narrative. His strong determination and profound, unyielding affection for his daughter make him a multidimensional character. In NCIS: New Orleans Season 6, Episode 9, titled “Convicted,” he was portrayed as Jason Campbell, and in Hawaii Five-0 Season 10, Episode 20, “He puhe’e miki,” he appeared as Oscar Hirsch.

6
Karri Turner

Karri Turner showcases a remarkable talent for both humor and drama, making her an exceptional actress. Most notably recognized for her role as Lieutenant Harriet Sims on JAG, she graced the screen in 112 episodes of the series until its conclusion in 2005. In this long-running show, Turner was a crucial element that contributed to its success. Apart from her work on JAG, Turner is also well-known for being a member of an improvisational comedy troupe named The Groundlings. On the big screen, she played supporting roles in both ‘Get Smart’ and ‘An American Carol’.

Turner’s involvement in the NCIS universe extends beyond just JAG. In Season 17, Episode 13, titled “In the Wind,” she portrayed Micki Kaydar on NCIS. This was her debut appearance. The episode revolves around Gibbs dealing with the aftermath of his attempt to reunite Ziva with her family and safeguard his own daughter, Tali. This situation led to a significant rift. Turner’s character adds a fresh angle to the storyline.

5
Zoe McLellan

Known for her outstanding performances in TV shows and films, particularly the 2000’s version of “Dungeons and Dragons”, Zoe McLellan initially garnered attention among television viewers for her portrayal of Navy Petty Officer Jennifer Coates in “JAG”. She made her debut in Season 7 as a recurring character, played a significant role throughout the series, and was promoted to regular status in Season 10. Her talent has also been displayed in productions such as “Dirty Sexy Money” and “Designated Survivor”.

Nine years following the end of “JAG”, McLellan revisited the franchise and assumed the part of NCIS Special Agent Meredith Brody on “NCIS”. She made her debut in Season 11, featuring in the two-part episode titled “Crescent City (Part 1)” and “Crescent City (Part 2)”. Later, she also played the same role on “NCIS: New Orleans”. As a transferee from Chicago, Brody’s character added a new viewpoint to the team, with McLellan remaining as a primary cast member in Seasons 1 and 2.

4
Joe Spano

For the seasoned actor Joe Spano, the world of NCIS has felt like a familiar and welcoming place. However, prior to his association with the enduring police procedural, he had already made a name for himself as Lt. Henry Goldblume in Hill Street Blues. Subsequently, he utilized his sensitive and versatile acting skills in films such as Apollo 13 and Primal Fear. In 1988, he was awarded an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for Midnight Caller.

In the very first episode of season 1 on NCIS, Spano made his debut as Tobias Fornell, a tough and experienced FBI Special Agent. He had a multifaceted bond with Gibbs – one marked by occasional competition and deep-rooted respect that significantly shaped the show’s narrative. Additionally, Spano graced the screens of NCIS: New Orleans in season 1, episode 7, titled “It Happened Last Night.” Over the course of more than 50 episodes, his character was a recurring presence across the entire NCIS franchise.

3
Scottie Thompson

Scottie Thompson makes a lasting impression in not just one, but two shows within the NCIS universe. Initially, she portrayed Dr. Jeanne Benoit, a character filled with conflict and emotional depth, starting from Season 4, Episode 1 titled “Shalom.” Daughter of arms dealer René Benoit and girlfriend of Tony DiNozzo, her presence stirred discussions among fans. However, over her 16-episode stint, she introduced a significant amount of romance and intrigue to the series.

Moreover, Thompson was featured in the 17th episode of NCIS: Los Angeles Season 11, titled “Missing Time,” playing Agent Sarah Raines. Not only has she made guest appearances within the NCIS series, but her background in dance and theater, complemented by her Harvard education, adds depth to her personality. Some of her most notable roles can be found in television shows such as The Blacklist, Skyline, and 12 Monkeys.

2
Tom Schanley

Tom Schanley, boasting an extensive repertoire encompassing various media platforms, has graced popular TV shows like Dexter, Criminal Minds, and Castle. His versatility as an actor shines through as he skillfully takes on a diverse array of characters across all genres. A common thread in his performances is a subtle intensity that he brings to every role, whether portraying heroes or villains. In the NCIS universe, Schanley holds a unique distinction by appearing in four out of the five existing television series: JAG, NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: New Orleans, and NCIS: Hawai’i, with the exception of NCIS: Sydney.

Seven years following his roles as Petty Officer 3rd Class Colbert in seasons 4 and 9 of JAG, he reappeared in NCIS during season 9, episode 7, titled “Sins of the Father.” Here, he portrayed Navy Lieutenant Dean Massey, a character who was part of an investigation concerning Gibbs’ father. Subsequently, he appeared in NCIS: Los Angeles during season 5, episode 6, entitled “Windfall,” as Gabe Stanfill, and in NCIS: New Orleans during season 2, episode 20, titled “Help Wanted,” as Anthony Flanders. Schanley’s latest addition to what can simply be called his beloved TV series was in NCIS: Hawai’i during season 1, episode 4, named “Paniolo,” where he played the character Crazy Sam.

1
Muse Watson

Musing about the captivating screen presence of Muse Watson, who played both Charles Westmoreland in “Prison Break” and Bel Willis in “I Know What You Did Last Summer”, it’s hard to avert your gaze. With an undeniable authority and authenticity, Watson has breathed life into every role he’s taken on, and his debut as Admiral Arthur Fessenden in JAG was no exception. This memorable performance occurred in Season 4, Episode 3, titled “Innocence”.

In the role that followed, Watson graced the screen on NCIS for a total of 20 episodes spanning from 2006 to 2017, starting with Season 3’s Episode 23 titled “Hiatus (Part 1).” Famous for his succinct lines and embodying Gibbs’ mentor as well as the former Supervisory Special Agent, Mike Franks was adored by fans for his sincere concern for the team. Watson reappeared whenever the squad required guidance. Despite meeting a heart-wrenching demise in Season 8’s Episode 1, “Swan Song,” at the hands of the Port-to-Port Killer, he persisted as Gibbs’ guardian spirit in subsequent seasons.

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2025-05-07 02:57