The NCIS: Origins season 2 finale airs Tuesday at 9/8c on CBS, focusing on the Camp Pendleton office's rebranding to add the 'C' for NCIS. Star Caleb Foote promises an episode that tops the season 1 cliffhanger and leaves fans satisfied yet eager for more. Titled 'Hollywood Ending,' it ties up storylines while raising new questions for season 3.
The episode centers on the NIS team's uncertain future as their office faces shutdown amid an administrative overhaul. A teaser shows the organization undergoing a targeted rebranding, officially becoming NCIS by adding the 'C' to its name. Foote, who plays Randy, assures viewers the story avoids getting bogged down in bureaucracy despite the premise. In an interview with TVLine, Foote said, “Our fans are going to be incredibly satisfied, yet wanting so much more. We're going to answer so many questions and we're going to tie beautiful bows on all sorts of different storylines, but we are going to go into Season 3 with even more questions and even more anticipation.” He added that the finale surpasses the season 1 cliffhanger involving Lala's car accident fate, calling it the best he's been part of. Season 1 ended with Lala's life in question after the crash; she survived, and season 2 explored her recovery and complicated dynamic with Gibbs. Now single after Gibbs' brief marriage and Lala's involvement with gang member Manny, their relationship hangs in the balance. Questions linger over whether the team disbands, Lala reunites with Manny, or she and Gibbs connect now that Diane is gone. Foote hinted the episode will prompt viewers to wonder, “How the heck are we going to recover from this one?” Showrunners David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal crafted the unassuming synopsis.