NCIS: New Orleans Season 1 Episode 1 Cast Guide

Hey guys! Ever wondered who was who in the very first episode of NCIS: New Orleans? Well, you've come to the right place! Let's dive into the cast of Season 1 Episode 1, "Muscles," and see where they've been since then. Trust me; there are some familiar faces you definitely don't want to miss!

The Main Crew

Let's kick things off with the core team that made NCIS: New Orleans such a hit. These are the actors who anchored the show and kept us coming back for more week after week. Each of them brought something unique to the table, creating a dynamic that was as engaging as the cases they solved.

Scott Bakula as Dwayne Pride

Dwayne Cassius Pride, portrayed by Scott Bakula, is the heart and soul of the New Orleans NCIS office. Pride is a charismatic and dedicated leader, deeply connected to his city. Bakula's portrayal brings a sense of warmth and authority to the character, making him instantly likable and believable. Before NCIS: New Orleans, Bakula was well-known for his roles in "Quantum Leap" and "Star Trek: Enterprise." His ability to portray complex characters with both strength and vulnerability made him perfect for the role of Pride. Throughout the series, Pride's personal life and professional duties often intertwine, adding layers to his character and making him relatable to viewers. Whether he's playing piano at a local bar or strategizing with his team, Pride embodies the spirit of New Orleans. Bakula's continued success is a testament to his talent and versatility, solidifying his place as a television icon. His performance grounded the show, giving it a sense of authenticity and heart that resonated with audiences.

Lucas Black as Christopher LaSalle

Christopher LaSalle, played by Lucas Black, is the quintessential Southern agent with a strong moral compass. LaSalle is known for his loyalty and dedication, often putting himself in harm's way to protect his team and the innocent. Black's portrayal of LaSalle brings a down-to-earth charm to the character, making him a fan favorite. Before joining NCIS: New Orleans, Black gained recognition for his roles in films like "Sling Blade" and "Friday Night Lights." His ability to portray both toughness and vulnerability made him a perfect fit for the role of LaSalle. Throughout the series, LaSalle's backstory and personal struggles are explored, adding depth to his character and making him relatable to viewers. Whether he's chasing down leads or offering a comforting word to a victim, LaSalle embodies the spirit of justice and compassion. Black's performance added a unique flavor to the show, solidifying his place as a beloved member of the NCIS family. His commitment to the role and his ability to connect with audiences made LaSalle a memorable character.

Zoe McLellan as Meredith Brody

Meredith Brody, portrayed by Zoe McLellan, is a Special Agent with a troubled past who transfers to New Orleans seeking a fresh start. McLellan brings a sense of determination and vulnerability to the character, making her instantly relatable. Before joining NCIS: New Orleans, McLellan was known for her roles in "JAG" and "Dirty Sexy Money." Her ability to portray strong, independent women made her a great fit for the role of Brody. Throughout the series, Brody's personal demons and professional aspirations are explored, adding depth to her character and making her a compelling figure. Whether she's cracking cases or confronting her past, Brody embodies resilience and strength. McLellan's performance added a unique dynamic to the show, solidifying her place as a valued member of the NCIS team. Her commitment to the role and her ability to connect with audiences made Brody a memorable character. Brody's journey of self-discovery and redemption resonated with viewers, making her a fan favorite during her time on the show.

Rob Kerkovich as Sebastian Lund

Sebastian Lund, played by Rob Kerkovich, is the quirky and lovable forensic scientist who adds a touch of humor to the team. Kerkovich's portrayal of Sebastian brings a sense of awkward charm to the character, making him an audience favorite. Before joining NCIS: New Orleans, Kerkovich was known for his comedic roles in various television shows and films. His ability to deliver witty lines and physical comedy made him a perfect fit for the role of Sebastian. Throughout the series, Sebastian's intelligence and dedication shine through, even as he navigates his own insecurities and eccentricities. Whether he's analyzing evidence in the lab or offering a humorous observation, Sebastian embodies the spirit of innovation and enthusiasm. Kerkovich's performance added a lighthearted touch to the show, solidifying his place as a beloved member of the NCIS team. His commitment to the role and his ability to connect with audiences made Sebastian a memorable character. Sebastian's growth from a nervous lab assistant to a confident field agent resonated with viewers, making him a fan favorite.

CCH Pounder as Loretta Wade

Loretta Wade, portrayed by the amazing CCH Pounder, is the Jefferson Parish medical examiner. Loretta is known for her sharp wit, her maternal nature, and her unwavering dedication to justice. Pounder's portrayal brings a sense of gravitas and warmth to the character, making her an invaluable member of the team. Before joining NCIS: New Orleans, Pounder had a long and distinguished career in television and film, with notable roles in "The Shield" and "Avatar." Her ability to portray strong, authoritative women made her a perfect fit for the role of Loretta. Throughout the series, Loretta's personal life and professional duties often intersect, adding depth to her character and making her relatable to viewers. Whether she's performing an autopsy or offering a comforting word to a grieving family, Loretta embodies compassion and wisdom. Pounder's performance added a layer of authenticity and heart to the show, solidifying her place as a respected and beloved member of the NCIS family. Her commitment to the role and her ability to connect with audiences made Loretta a memorable character.

Notable Guest Stars

Beyond the main cast, NCIS: New Orleans's first episode featured some memorable guest stars who helped set the stage for the series. These actors brought depth and intrigue to the storyline, making the episode a compelling start to the show.

Dean Stockwell as Tom Hamilton

In "Muscles," Dean Stockwell played Tom Hamilton, a key figure in the episode's central case. Stockwell, known for his role in "Quantum Leap" alongside Scott Bakula, brought a sense of gravitas and mystery to his character. His presence added a layer of intrigue to the storyline, making the episode more compelling. Stockwell's performance was nuanced and captivating, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. His ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety made him a perfect fit for the role. While his character's arc in the episode was limited, his impact on the overall narrative was significant. Stockwell's appearance was a treat for fans of "Quantum Leap," reuniting him with Scott Bakula in a different context.

Steven Weber as Councilman Douglas Hamilton

Steven Weber appeared as Councilman Douglas Hamilton, adding another layer of complexity to the episode's plot. Weber, known for his roles in "Wings" and "The Shining" miniseries, brought a sense of authority and charisma to his character. His portrayal of a powerful and influential figure was both convincing and engaging. Weber's ability to command the screen made him a standout in the episode. His character's interactions with the NCIS team added tension and intrigue to the storyline. Weber's performance was a testament to his versatility as an actor, showcasing his ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles with equal skill.

Shanley Caswell as Laurel Pride

Shanley Caswell played Laurel Pride, Dwayne Pride's daughter, in the first episode. Caswell brought a sense of youthful energy and vulnerability to the character, making her interactions with her father all the more poignant. Her performance added a personal dimension to Pride's character, highlighting his role as both a dedicated agent and a loving father. Caswell's ability to portray complex emotions with authenticity made her a memorable presence in the episode. Her character's storyline added depth to the overall narrative, exploring the challenges of balancing family and career. Caswell's performance was a testament to her talent as a young actress, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.

Michael McGlone as Marine Colonel Samuel Tilden

Michael McGlone appeared as Marine Colonel Samuel Tilden, adding a military presence to the episode. McGlone, known for his roles in "The Brothers McMullen" and "Crash," brought a sense of authority and discipline to his character. His portrayal of a high-ranking officer was both convincing and commanding. McGlone's ability to convey strength and resolve made him a perfect fit for the role. His character's involvement in the case added a layer of complexity to the storyline, exploring the intersection of military and civilian investigations. McGlone's performance was a testament to his versatility as an actor, showcasing his ability to play a wide range of characters with equal skill.

Wrapping Up

So there you have it, folks! A rundown of the main and notable guest cast members from NCIS: New Orleans Season 1 Episode 1, "Muscles." It's always fun to revisit the beginning and see how far the characters have come. Each actor brought something special to the table, making the show the hit that it was. Whether it was the strong leadership of Scott Bakula as Dwayne Pride, the quirky charm of Rob Kerkovich as Sebastian Lund, or the intriguing presence of Dean Stockwell as Tom Hamilton, every performance contributed to the overall success of the episode. Hope you enjoyed this little trip down memory lane, and keep an eye out for more cast breakdowns in the future!