Mark Harmon Reflects on Leaving “NCIS” and the Possibility of Gibbs’ Return
Mark Harmon ended his iconic run as Leroy Jethro Gibbs on “NCIS” after 19 seasons, stepping down from the role that made him a household name. Since his departure, Gibbs has not made any appearances, even for special episodes, and Harmon himself remains uncertain about a potential return.
At the Television Critics Association summer press tour, Harmon discussed his exit, revealing it felt like the right time to move on. He expressed satisfaction with his character’s departure and the show’s continued success without him. Harmon mentioned he’s open to reprising his role but hasn’t been directly approached with a specific idea by the creative team.
“It wasn’t so much a decision to leave, but the right timing to push away a little bit,” Harmon said. “I was thrilled with the storyline they came up with and how they handled the character. And the show continued on… I have been asked [about a return] a lot… I’ve always let the writers do what they want to do.”
When asked if the “NCIS” team had invited him back since Season 19, Harmon responded, “Directly, like a phone call…? Not that I’m aware of… I don’t know… It’s really about feeling like you’re fulfilled with a role, or complete with a role.”
There was speculation that Gibbs might appear in a tribute episode for D. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, following the passing of actor David McCallum. Although Michael Weatherly returned as Tony DiNozzo, Gibbs did not make an appearance. Fans also hoped for a Gibbs cameo in the special 1000th episode of “NCIS,” but it did not materialize. The show’s creative team has indicated that if Gibbs were to return, it would need to be for a significant and meaningful storyline.
“Of course the door is always open,” co-showrunner and executive producer Steven D. Binder told TVLine. “When we bring him back, we’re not going to bring him back for two minutes. It’s got to be something special.”
In the meantime, Harmon will continue to be part of the “NCIS” universe by voicing Gibbs as the narrator for the upcoming prequel series, “NCIS: Origins.”
