Muse Watson, who plays Mike Franks on NCIS, does look familiar as he has appeared in several well-known films and television shows over the decades. Frank has been deeply woven into the fabric of the film industry, and in NCIS, he plays the authoritative role of the former Major Case Response Team leader in the department. He is portrayed to be the mentor to the main character.
In season 8, Mike dies in the show, but even when he character dies, his presence is established through flashbacks and memories. Before stepping into the role of Gibbs' mentor on NCIS, Watson had worked in several crime dramas and thrillers, along with horror films.
Here is the list of Muse Watson's notable works before he appeared on NCIS.
Here are some notable projects of Muse Watson, which make him familiar with NCIS
I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)
In this 1997 film, Muse gave one of his most iconic performances as Ben Wills, the intense killer who uses a large metal hook to kill their victims. He was also known as The Fisherman for the very weapon he uses. Watson was part of the film's sequel as well.
This role made him popular, and this is why many fans can recognize him instantly. This role of Watson contrasts his calm presence as Mike Franks, which makes the connection even more striking for the viewers who know the actor.
From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money
Next, in 1999, Watson played Sheriff Lawson in From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money. This role adds to the category of genre he usually plays, taking up strong and authoritative roles. This performance showcased his ability to bring life to a grounded law enforcement character, which eventually made him a natural fit for NCIS.
Along with film, the actor has appeared in some popular TV shows.
Prison Break
The actor appeared with a brief screen time in Prison Break in the first season, further expanding the gritty and grounded world of prison. This role was not that primary, but it gave the actor much visibility and helped him cement his face in the minds of viewers who could later catch him on NCIS.
These were some specific titles in which the actor shared credits, but there have been some guest roles across numerous crime and drama series that feature him. This is something which made him easily recognisable even if the viewers can't immediately place where.
The Handmaid's Tale
In this adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel, the show portrays a society controlled by religion and dictatorship. Guardians are considered the soldiers with the lowest ranks. They usually carry out enforcement tasks, and this small but symbolic role was played by Watson. He appeared as a uniformed Guardian responsible for controlling and policing the Handmaids to maintain the oppressive order in Gilead. They are further shown to escort maidens and to surveil their movements.
All of these projects suggest how the actor has been part of some very popular long-running shows at the beginning of his career, and this made him recognisable when he appeared as Mike on NCIS.