After Mark Harmon’s departure from NCIS in Season 19, the actor has finally returned to the franchise, taking on a key role in the prequel series NCIS: Origins, currently airing in the 2024 TV lineup. Harmon serves as an executive producer and narrator for the show, which follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs as a new NIS agent at Camp Pendleton in 1991, shortly after the tragic deaths of his wife and daughter. Harmon even made a brief appearance as Gibbs in the premiere episode, a move that thrilled fans—though not everyone on set is reportedly as excited about his return.
While Harmon’s role is mostly behind the scenes, sources claim he’s been fully engaged, offering input on everything from casting to plot details, with one insider sharing, “For someone who said three years ago he was retiring, Mark’s still very immersed in the franchise and must have a say in everything.” Harmon has also provided guidance to the cast, especially Austin Stowell, who plays the young Gibbs, offering him valuable advice for his role.
However, Harmon’s active involvement has reportedly raised eyebrows among some team members, who feel his feedback is a little too frequent. According to sources, some cast and crew appreciate his wisdom, but others are frustrated by his “constant interfering” and would prefer him to ease up.
Despite these alleged on-set tensions, NCIS: Origins has been a hit, delivering a fresh perspective on Gibbs and capturing fans’ attention with a blend of familiar and new characters. Meanwhile, NCIS fans have even more to look forward to with another spin-off, NCIS: Tony & Ziva, which will premiere soon on Paramount+, reuniting fan-favorites Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo as Tony DiNozzo and Ziva David in a European adventure.
Amid the rumors about Harmon’s involvement, the NCIS franchise remains as popular as ever, and the new spin-offs are adding exciting new dimensions to the beloved series. As more unfolds, fans can expect to stay updated on Harmon’s role and the future of NCIS.
