Why This Guest Star Plays Such an Important Role in NCIS Universe
By Movieguide® Contributor
FBI Agent Tobias Fornell, played by Joe Spano, has become one of the NCIS’ most important side characters, appearing in over two seasons’ worth of episodes.
Spano’s longstanding history with the show, dating back to the very first episode, provides an ever-important continuity as new faces interact with old characters. Over 21 seasons, he has appeared in 56 episodes, giving him the equivalent count of roughly two seasons and more time with the show than some newer regulars, including Jessica Knight (Katrina Law) and Alden Parker (Gary Cole).
Just as all the show regulars change during their time, Spano’s character has evolved over the years. During his initial appearances, he served as an adversary to NCIS as a high-ranking FBI official who was hesitant to delegate outside of his agency. His respect for NCIS, however, has grown through the years, and he trusts their work just as much as he would his own agents.
Throughout his 56 appearances, Fornell’s story has been greatly explored, and his past reveals how much he has in common with Gibbs — including a divorce with the same woman. Their shared experiences, along with similar roles within their respective agencies, formed a strong bond between Fornell and Gibbs. With Gibbs’ departure from the show, Fornell’s appearances are more important than ever as he serves as the closest thing to Gibbs that is left.
Spano’s importance to the show was highlighted in the 1,000th episode when he joined forces with NCIS after his garage was bombed by an adversary dating back to the pilot episode. Not only was his longevity crucial to the plot, but his growth over the years and relationship with NCIS was on display throughout the historic episode.
While his appearance is never guaranteed, Spano has joined the show at least once per season since he was first introduced. As NCIS gears up for Season 22, only time will tell how his character will continue to develop throughout the years.
Movieguide® previously reported on NCIS:
The 1,000th episode of NCIS aired last Monday, and it paid respect to the characters and moments that made such a massive milestone possible.
The episode centered on why the NCIS agents do what they do. While the answer may seem obvious, it becomes a little more complicated when considering the danger they put themselves and their families in. This is highlighted from the beginning as director Vance visits his wife’s grave in the opening scene.
Not even a graveyard is sacred ground for NCIS’s opponents, as Director Vance was shot (nonfatally) by a long-range sniper to start the episode.
As the agents investigate the shooting, they come upon a sniper nest with a note telling them to “enjoy the show,” immediately followed by three explosions around the city that targeted people or places affiliated with NCIS.
Clearly under attack, the NCIS network weighs in on how to respond. This brings NCIS: HAWII’s Tenant and NCIS: LOS ANGELES’ Blye into the picture as they offer advice to the main-base agents.