Mark Harmon’s Return to NCIS Franchise Is Finally Happening
By Movieguide® Contributor
Since his exit in 2021, fans have been dying for Mark Harmon to return to NCIS. Their wish is finally coming true.
The actor, who played Leroy Jethro Gibbs from 2003-2021, will make an appearance on the spinoff show NCIS: ORIGINS, which explores his character’s backstory as a young agent.
“While talking to reporters on Thursday, co-showrunner David J. North said new footage of Harmon was shot for the prequel that launches Oct. 14 on CBS,” Deadline reported.
“That was a discussion between Mark, myself and Gina Monreal,” North said about having Harmon in the premiere. “I hope the audience will be excited to see him after so many years.”
Even though Harmon won’t be on the screen for the remainder of the season, he will narrate each episode.
Movieguide® previously reported on Harmon’s return to the NCIS Universe:
Mark Harmon will return to the NCIS universe in the spinoff series NCIS: ORIGINS.
The series is a prequel to the long-running drama and will shed some light on Leroy Gibbs’ history.
“NCIS: ORIGINS is really different than any of the other NCIS‘s; it makes me feel so old to say it’s period when it’s set in the ‘90s, kill me now, right?” said CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach.
“It’s a little edgier and grittier than previous NCIS‘s, it’s got a serialized element of it that we’re really excited about. And whereas I would say NCIS: SYDNEY too really had its own identity, it was very uniquely Australian and told stories that can only be told in Australia, so I feel like they’re both opportunities to gain new audiences while also being true to the DNA and loyal fan base of those shows,” she added.
“We are focusing on him telling the story of 1991,” North said of Harmon. “As far as Mark appearing again, we are open to anything.”
Harmon will also serve as an executive producer on the show.
While at one of the press tours in Pasadena, California, Harmon remained humbled and tried not to spoil any secrets when it came to him returning to the screen.
“I’m just pleased to be part of it,” he admitted. “And I’m a distant part of it really because I’m not there to make any big moves or anything. I’m just there to support. And how can I help? And if you need my help, great. And if not, that’s okay too. And so far, they’re all doing just fine.”
“I don’t know what to say other than I’m pleased to be part of this team,” he included. “And I’m fine with the step back to let this cast do their work. We spent a lot of time in rooms, finding this group that sits in front of you.”
- Content: +4Share:
- Content: +1