Let’s get this out of the best way — I really like Alden Parker. When he joined NCIS in Season 19, he introduced an entire new power that this present desperately wanted.
Don’t get me incorrect, Gibbs was a legend. However after practically twenty years of his intense, no-nonsense management, it was time for a change.
Parker? He’s obtained a totally totally different vibe, and it’s been a complete game-changer.
A Chief All His Personal
Parker isn’t making an attempt to be one other Leroy Jethro Gibbs, and that’s precisely why he works.
The place Gibbs led with quiet authority and an unshakable confidence in his crew’s talents, Parker is extra laid-back and approachable.
He has a extra collaborative fashion, brazenly encouraging his brokers and bringing a lighter power to the crew.
Plus, his humorousness brings one thing contemporary to the present. Parker makes actual, laugh-out-loud jokes, one thing we not often obtained with Gibbs.
Whereas each Gibbs and Parker have their hobbies (as a result of apparently, that’s an NCIS chief requirement), Parker’s birdwatching pastime was a stunning twist.
Add to that his love of pastries, and he turns into much more relatable and refreshing.
Parker additionally brings a lighter, extra approachable vibe to NCIS that the present didn’t have earlier than. He’s layered with mysteries we haven’t totally uncovered but — like, who precisely is Lily?
And in contrast to Gibbs, who took years to open up romantically, Parker’s already proven he’s open to like.
His chemistry with Clara in NCIS Season 21 Episode 8 was so candy and surprising, and I used to be hooked instantly. They’re an excellent match, and I’m rooting for them.
The one different individual I might see him vibing with is Jess, however she’s taken — and we positively don’t want that drama.
Nonetheless, Jess and Parker could be a improbable match as a result of they each have that fearless, spunky fashion. It gained’t occur, however hey — a woman can dream, proper?
And for the report, I really like Jess and Jimmy collectively, even when they’re not proper now — in the meanwhile. So, don’t get too loopy about my dream state of affairs.
The Crew Has By no means Been Extra Relaxed
I’ve observed that the crew appears far more relaxed with Parker in cost. Below Gibbs, there was all the time this underlying pressure — like everybody was strolling on eggshells.
With Parker, it’s a totally totally different environment. McGee is extra assured, Torres is rather less broody, and Knight? She’s completely thriving.
Her enjoyable, daring character meshes completely with Parker’s, so right here’s hoping she’ll be again with the crew quickly.
Parker’s collaborative management fashion provides the crew room to develop, and it reveals. As an alternative of simply following orders, they’re actually working collectively, and that makes the dynamic really feel contemporary.
Parker’s Humor Is the Present’s Secret Weapon
And may we discuss in regards to the humor? Parker brings a lightness to the present that we by no means actually obtained with Gibbs.
He’s humorous with out making an attempt too arduous, and his quirky character provides a enjoyable layer to the crew dynamic.
It’s not all jokes, in fact — the stakes are nonetheless excessive — however Parker is aware of find out how to break the stress in a method that makes the present extra fulfilling.
Bear in mind on NCIS Season 21 Episode 6: “Unusual Invaders” when he teased McGee and Knight with, “Don’t get beamed up”? That’s traditional Parker.
It’s just like the crew can lastly breathe, and I’m right here for it.
For individuals who nonetheless miss Gibbs, I get it. He was an icon. And if you wish to relive these days, you’ve obtained NCIS: Origins to dive into his backstory.
However for me? I’m sticking with Alden Parker and NCIS. He’s precisely what the present wanted to remain contemporary, and I’m loving each minute of it.
