The NCIS: Origins Season 1 finale has left fans reeling with a heart-stopping cliffhanger involving Mariel Molino’s character, Cecilia “Lala” Dominguez. Some believe this could be a sign that Lala Dominguez is leaving NCIS: Origins.
So, is Dominguez dead or still alive? Here are all the details.
Did Mariel Molino’s Lala Dominguez die in NCIS: Origins’ finale?
The NCIS: Origins finale left the question about whether Mariel Molino’s Lala Dominguez is dead or alive unanswered. She was involved in a brutal car crash, but the showrunners have yet to confirm whether she survived.
In an interview with TVLine, David J. North, co-showrunner, teased that the creative team took “big swings” this season, leaving room for surprises in Season 2. Meanwhile, Gina Lucita Monreal hinted that Lala’s fate—whether death or career-ending injuries—will send “shock waves throughout the people in her life.”
Additionally, Harmon’s narration suggested Gibbs still loves her “all along.” Given that Lala Dominguez is a fan favorite, her survival is plausible, but the spinoff Origins could take a different direction.
Is Mariel Molino’s Lala leaving NCIS: Origins before Season 2?
Since Lala Dominguez has been part of NCIS: Origins for all 18 Episodes, there’s a possibility that Mariel Molino’s character won’t be leaving. Her injuries could force her into early retirement, or her interference in Macy’s investigation might cost her job, but it’s unlikely that Molino’s Lala will leave NCIS: Origins.
Co-showrunners have remained tight-lipped, urging fans to watch the show for answers. Whether Molino reprises her role or not, Lala’s impact on Gibbs’ past and future will undoubtedly shape the next season.
For now, fans can only speculate: did Lala Dominguez survive the crash, or has NCIS: Origins written her out? The answer may come sooner than expected when Season 2 arrives.
