'NCIS: New Orleans' Release Date: Latest Spin-Off in NCIS Universe, Scott Bakula to Lead New Team
"NCIS" has Special Agent Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon), NCIS LA has Special Agent G. Callen (Chris O'Donnell), and now, there's a new NCIS team in the Big Easy, which will be led by Special Agent Dwayne Pride, played by "Quantum Leap" star Scott Bakula.
"NCIS: New Orleans" is the newest spin-off from the "NCIS" series, and according to CBS, the show will focus on criminal cases affecting military personnel in New Orleans.
The team of investigators will be led by Special Agent Dwayne Pride, described as "a native of the Big Easy driven to do the right thing." Joining him are Special Agent Christopher LaSalle (Lucas Black), a hardworking playboy who could give NCIS' Agent DiNozzo a run for his money; Special Agent Meredith Brody (Zoe McLellan), a charming yet tough-as-nails interrogator; and Coroner Dr. Loretta Wade (CCH Pounder).
Bakula's character is based on D'Wayne Swear, who ran the real-life NCIS unit in New Orleans and now serves as a technical adviser on the show.
In an interview with LA Times, Bakula shared what it was like to work with the person who was the inspiration for his character on the show.
"The real D'Wayne is a lot like this guy that I'm playing," said Bakula. "He's hugely passionate. He absolutely loves his job. I met him on the phone. I was getting background. He said, 'I'm at your disposal. You can call me anytime you want. Well, no, don't call me on Thursday, because I'm helping out on a case that's out in such and such a parish.'"
Black also shared his experience on filming in New Orleans. He raved about "the culture down there and the good food, and the people that live down there love their city."
He also shared the there's another side to the historic city.
"It's got a darker side, everybody there knows it does. The show will be showing that as well, and for everybody to get to see both of that. You know, it's kind of cool," said Black to CBS.
"NCIS: New Orleans" will premiere on Sept. 23 at 9 p.m. ET on CBS.
