“Gibbs’ Missing Presence in NCIS Tribute to Ducky: Here’s Why It Was the Right Call!
Initially, fans were puzzled by Gibbs’ absence from the NCIS tribute to Ducky, but it soon became clear that it was a strategic move, aligning perfectly with the sentiments shared by both the cast and crew. The decision to reintroduce DiNozzo instead of Gibbs was driven by the desire to evoke greater emotional depth, especially considering Jimmy’s grieving process and the strong bond between Jimmy and DiNozzo’s character. Dietzen, who played a part in shaping the episode, stressed DiNozzo’s return as a way to support his friend, infusing the storyline with secrecy and intimacy.
While some fans may have hoped for Gibbs’ presence in the tribute, the choice to omit him ultimately served the narrative better. Harmon’s departure signaled a significant shift in the series, and his farewell episode provided a fitting conclusion for his character. While it’s understandable that viewers wished for Gibbs to bid farewell to his dear friend, such a scene might have diluted the impact of his departure.
Despite Gibbs’ absence from the tribute, Harmon continues to play a pivotal role in the future of the NCIS franchise. Binder’s openness to the idea of Gibbs returning for future episodes, combined with Harmon’s involvement in developing a prequel focused on Gibbs, indicates that the character still holds significance. DiNozzo’s return generated excitement among longtime fans, sparking speculation about how Harmon might reprise his role in the mainline NCIS series.”
