NCIS star Mark Harmon looks back on his prerequisite before joining the CBS series, recalling the insistence he had to make for a change.
NCIS star Mark Harmon reflects on his one and only request before joining the CBS show. Harmon, best known for his portrayal of Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, is one of the most recognizable actors in long-running procedurals.
Despite numerous cast changes, Harmon remained with the original NCIS for 19 seasons, keeping Gibbs as a prominent presence. Even after Harmon’s departure in 2021, Gibbs’ influence on the show is still felt.
However, in an interview with Entertainment Tonight to promote his new book, Ghosts of Honolulu, Harmon reveals that the name of his character was almost a deal breaker.
Harmon admits that he didn’t like NCIS at first, but the name Leroy Jethro Gibbs piqued his interest. According to Harmon, Gibbs’ name was briefly changed to something far more common, which almost caused a problem. Read the entire quote below:
“I didn’t anticipate enjoying the script as much as I did when I first read it. At the time, I was exploring various projects while also aiming to spend more time at home with my young family.
Upon reading ‘Leroy Jethro Gibbs,’ I found the name intriguing. However, there was a brief moment where I considered changing it to something like ‘Bob Johnson.’ Immediately, I thought, ‘No, it has to be Leroy Jethro Gibbs.’
The creator initially resisted, suggesting I couldn’t play a character with that name. I questioned, ‘Why not?’ Eventually, it reverted, and I was pleased with the decision.”
Will Mark Harmon Ever Reappear on NCIS..?
NCIS has done well to fill the void left by Harmon’s absence, bringing on veteran actor Gary Cole to play Alden Parker. Nonetheless, Gibbs’ potential return lingers.
Despite leaving the show, Harmon has stated that his character is not “retired.” Executive producer Steven Binder, who has stated that Gibbs will not be gone forever, has bolstered those sentiments.
Unlike other dramas where characters are given a grand send-off (perhaps only returning for the series finale), the ongoing nature of NCIS allows familiar faces to appear for a few episodes at a time. Before bidding farewell, Gibbs decides to remain in Alaska rather than return to Washington, D.C. and continue his career with NCIS. It’s an emotional farewell, with Gibbs declaring that he’s found peace.
Harmon has explained why he is leaving NCIS. He explains that, like his character, he is aging. He’s also stated that Gibbs’ exit plot makes sense. But, reading between the lines of everything that’s been said, it may only be a matter of time before Harmon makes a brief appearance.
