Mark Harmon Reflects on NCIS Exit: “Gibbs Is Not Retired”
Mark Harmon bids farewell to NCIS after 19 seasons, addressing his character’s departure in Season 19’s fourth episode. Harmon’s iconic character, Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, decided to stay in Alaska indefinitely after solving a case.
In a special featurette on the show’s Season 19 DVD release, Harmon expressed his appreciation for the character and the need to keep the role fresh and challenging. He believed Gibbs’ departure was honest and fitting for the character’s journey.
Despite leaving the series, Harmon emphasized that Gibbs is not retired but rather living in Alaska. In his final episode, Gibbs tells Special Agent Timothy McGee that he won’t be returning home.
Executive producer Steve Binder reassured fans that Harmon remains an integral part of the show’s fabric, leaving Gibbs’ future open-ended. CBS Entertainment President Kelly Kahl echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Harmon’s ongoing connection to the series.
NCIS: The Nineteenth Season is available on DVD, with the show set to return for its 20th season on Sept. 19.
