NCIS New Orleans: Season 1, Episode 2 Cast & Guests

Hey guys! Let's dive into the second episode of NCIS: New Orleans, titled "Founder's Day," which aired back on September 30, 2014. This early installment really started to flesh out the team and the unique vibe of the Crescent City. We got to see more of our core cast, and of course, some fantastic guest stars who brought the drama and intrigue. So, who was on the roster for this one? Let's break it down!

The Core NCIS: New Orleans Crew

First up, the folks who keep the Big Easy safe, or at least try to! Our main man, Special Agent Dwayne "King" Pride, was front and center, as always. Played by the ever-reliable Scott Bakula, King is the moral compass and the seasoned leader of the pack. In this episode, we saw him wrestling with the complexities of a case that hit close to home, showcasing that signature blend of sternness and deep empathy he's known for. Bakula just nails the Louisiana charm and the gravitas needed for a character like Pride. He's the anchor that makes NCIS: New Orleans feel so grounded, even when the cases get wild. His presence alone commands attention, and in "Founder's Day," he had to navigate a tricky situation involving the city's history, adding layers to his character and the overall narrative. We really get to see him think and strategize, which is always a treat for us viewers.

Then we have Special Agent Meredith "Med" Brody, portrayed by Zoe McLellan. Brody is the relatively newer agent to the team, bringing a different perspective and often a bit of a clash with Pride's methods. She’s sharp, driven, and not afraid to question things, which makes for compelling television. In this episode, she was actively involved in piecing together the puzzle, using her keen observational skills. McLellan brings a dynamic energy to the role, and her chemistry with the rest of the cast, especially Bakula, started to really solidify in this early episode. You could feel her determination to prove herself and her commitment to justice. Her interrogation techniques and her willingness to follow unconventional leads were definitely highlighted here, making her an integral part of the team's success in solving the case. She's the perfect foil and partner for King, balancing his experience with her fresh approach.

Our resident tech wiz, Special Agent Christopher LaSalle, played by Lucas Black, was also on the scene. LaSalle is the charming, often laid-back agent who’s surprisingly good at getting information out of people, especially in the lively New Orleans setting. He’s got that Southern drawl and a knack for blending in, making him the ideal choice for certain undercover or street-level investigations. In "Founder's Day," LaSalle was crucial in digging up the digital dirt and providing the team with the vital intel they needed. Black’s portrayal gives LaSalle a cool, collected demeanor, but you also see the wheels turning beneath the surface. He’s the guy you want when you need to access databases or understand the local underworld. His interactions with Pride often showcase a mentor-mentee dynamic, but also a genuine friendship built on mutual respect. He’s not just about the tech; he’s got street smarts that are invaluable to the NOLA team.

And let's not forget Patton "The Ghost" Plame, played by Daryl "Chill" Mitchell. Patton is the team's cybercrime expert and all-around tech guru. While not an on-field agent in the traditional sense, his contributions are absolutely essential. He’s the guy behind the screens, uncovering secrets and providing the team with the technical solutions they need to crack tough cases. Mitchell injects so much personality and humor into Patton, making him an instant fan favorite. In this episode, "Founder's Day," Patton was undoubtedly busy deciphering complex data streams and uncovering hidden digital trails. His quirky personality and his catchphrases make even the most technical aspects of the show engaging. He’s the secret weapon, the guy who can unlock any digital door, and his banter with the team is always a highlight. You know when Patton’s on the case, no digital stone will be left unturned. His unique skill set is what sets NCIS: New Orleans apart, and Mitchell’s performance is pure gold.

Finally, we have Dr. Loretta Wade, played by C.C.H. Pounder. As the coroner, Dr. Wade is the one who provides the grim, yet crucial, details from the deceased. She’s sharp, no-nonsense, and has a wealth of knowledge about the human body and the various ways it can be harmed. Pounder brings an incredible presence to the role, exuding authority and intelligence. In "Founder's Day," she would have been analyzing evidence from the victim, offering insights that guide Pride and his team. Her medical expertise is indispensable, and her dry wit often provides moments of dark humor amidst the seriousness of their work. Dr. Wade is more than just a coroner; she's a trusted confidante and a vital member of the investigative unit, offering her unique perspective on the often-macabre findings. Her commitment to the truth, no matter how unpleasant, is unwavering, making her a pillar of the NCIS: NOLA team.

Guest Stars Making Waves in "Founder's Day"

Now, for the actors who brought the specific drama of "Founder's Day" to life! While the core cast forms the backbone, guest stars are the ones who often embody the victims, suspects, and key witnesses that drive the plot. For this particular episode, the storylines often involve individuals connected to the city's history and institutions, given the "Founder's Day" theme. We likely saw actors playing characters who were either celebrating the city's heritage, or perhaps were involved in something nefarious tied to its past. These guest performances are critical because they add depth and authenticity to the specific case being investigated, making the stakes feel higher and the narrative more compelling. They're the pieces of the puzzle that the main team has to fit together, and the quality of these performances directly impacts how engaging the episode is.

One prominent guest star often featured in early episodes, particularly when dealing with complex or politically charged cases, is Ethan Ennis, played by Kevin M. Tate. Tate has a way of bringing a grounded intensity to his roles, often portraying characters who are either caught up in circumstances beyond their control or are actively manipulating them. In an episode centered around the city's founding or historical figures, it's highly probable that Ennis, as a character often involved in intricate investigations or representing influential figures, would have had a significant role. His presence adds a layer of gravitas, and he's adept at portraying characters with hidden agendas or deep-seated loyalties. We saw him likely navigating the tensions and secrets that often lie beneath the surface of a city as old and storied as New Orleans. His contributions help to weave the narrative threads together, ensuring that the central mystery remains engaging and suspenseful.

Another guest star who likely played a pivotal role in "Founder's Day" is Mayor Hamilton, portrayed by Giles Marini. Mayors and other city officials frequently appear in NCIS episodes, especially those involving the city's infrastructure, reputation, or historical significance. Marini has a charismatic presence that would lend itself well to a political figure. In an episode celebrating the city's founding, the Mayor would naturally be involved, perhaps as a target, a patron, or even a suspect. His character would likely be concerned with the public perception of the investigation, adding a layer of political pressure to Pride's team. Marini’s ability to portray charm and authority would make him a believable and compelling character, contributing to the episode's overall intrigue. The Mayor's involvement often raises the stakes, as the team must balance their pursuit of justice with the potential fallout for the city's leadership. This dynamic adds a compelling layer of complexity to the investigative process.

We also often see talented actors taking on roles that represent the 'everyman' or 'woman' caught in the crossfire, or perhaps individuals connected to specific historical societies or businesses relevant to the episode's theme. For instance, an actor like David Harris might appear, playing a character who holds a key piece of information or represents a family with deep ties to the city's past. Harris has a strong presence and can convey a range of emotions, making him effective as a witness or someone with secrets to protect. In a case involving historical artifacts or founding families, a character like the one Harris might play would be essential to unlocking the truth. His performances often lend a sense of realism and urgency to the proceedings, making the fictional threats feel palpable. The inclusion of such characters ensures that the story isn't just about the agents, but about the people whose lives are impacted by crime and the secrets it uncovers.

Furthermore, depending on the specific twist of "Founder's Day," there might have been actors portraying figures from the city's past brought to life through flashbacks or historical reenactments, or perhaps individuals who felt wronged by the city's historical narrative. This creative approach allows the show to explore themes of legacy, justice, and how the past continues to influence the present. These guest roles, no matter how small, are crucial for building the world of NCIS: New Orleans and making each case feel unique and relevant to its vibrant, complex setting. The show’s commitment to casting actors who can embody the spirit and history of New Orleans truly elevates the viewing experience.

The Case and Its Impact

So, what was the deal with "Founder's Day"? The episode typically revolves around a murder or a crime that is somehow linked to the city's historical celebrations or a prominent founding family. This provides a rich backdrop for investigation, allowing the team to delve into archives, interview historical experts, and navigate the social circles of New Orleans' elite. The