NCIS: Origins Season 2 Spotlights Underrated Character Doc Tango

The second season of NCIS: Origins premiered on October 14, 2025, coinciding with the launches of NCIS Season 23 and NCIS: Sydney Season 3. Following six weeks of consecutive new episodes, the prequel series will take a brief hiatus before airing “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” and “End of the Road” in the coming months. As the series continues to evolve, it is an opportune moment to highlight one of its most underrated characters, Témet Téngalkat, known as Doc Tango, played by Julian Black Antelope.

Recognized as the medical examiner, Doc Tango is integral to the investigations carried out by the main characters in NCIS: Origins. He typically conducts autopsies on murder victims and collaborates closely with Dr. Lenora Friedman, portrayed by Lori Petty. Their professional relationship is notable, especially given that Tango also has personal ties to the show’s storyline—he is the uncle of Tishmal Kwa’la, the former girlfriend of series character Mike Franks.

Doc Tango’s rapport with the team is characterized by his friendly demeanor and a unique ability to connect with characters like Mike Franks, who is known for his gruffness. Unlike other medical examiners in the wider NCIS franchise, such as Donald “Ducky” Mallard from the flagship series, Tango operates out of the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office and frequently collaborates with various law enforcement agencies. This dynamic adds depth to his character, showcasing a versatility that is often overlooked.

Exploring Doc Tango’s Cultural Background

During the first season, viewers received a glimpse into Doc Tango’s past and his Native American heritage, particularly in the episode “From the Ashes.” While this was primarily focused on another character, it raised interest in having more in-depth explorations of Tango’s background. The episode highlighted the pattern on Tango’s bolo tie, which is identified as Luiseño, or Payómkawichum, referring to the “People of the West.”

With the growing visibility of Native American culture in contemporary television, seen in series such as Reservation Dogs and Dark Winds, there is a significant opportunity for NCIS: Origins to further explore Tango’s culture and personal history. It would contribute to better representation in media, especially in broadcast television.

As the series progresses, there is a strong case for elevating Doc Tango to a more prominent role within the team. Given the show’s success and the character’s potential, viewers may appreciate seeing him develop closer relationships with characters like Gibbs, Lala, and Randy. Such interactions could enrich the narrative and provide a more rounded understanding of his character.

Future Prospects for Doc Tango

Looking ahead, should NCIS: Origins secure a renewal for a third season, there is hope that Julian Black Antelope’s character will transition from a recurring role to a series regular. This shift could open avenues for the show to dedicate more storyline time to Témet Téngalkat, allowing for a deeper exploration of his character beyond his medical examiner duties.

As NCIS: Origins continues to develop, it is crucial that the show capitalizes on the strengths of its characters. Doc Tango stands out as a solid character with significant potential for growth. As audiences engage with the series, a deeper dive into his backstory could not only enhance his character but also enrich the overall narrative of the franchise.