NCIS’ Mark Harmon Was Asked About Possible Return As Leroy Gibbs, And He Shared A Detail That Kinda Surprised Me

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As a dedicated fan of NCIS, I have always held Mark Harmon‘s portrayal of Leroy Jibbs close to my heart. The thought of his exit potentially damaging the show was a concern for many, but the series has proven that Gibbs’ departure didn’t signify the end. While McGee’s growth and new additions like Gary Cole have been intriguing, fans cannot help but wonder if and when Harmon might make a return.

Despite one producer’s belief that Mark Harmon’s departure from NCIS would mark the end of the CBS drama’s success, the show has persisted as television’s top broadcast draw in the years following Leroy Gibbs’ move to Alaska. However, neither McGee’s expanded role nor the arrival of Gary Cole and others have quelled fan speculation about Harmon’s potential return for guest spots. Finally, the former star has addressed the issue directly, revealing an unexpected detail.

Mark Harmon and Leroy Gibbs will continue to be involved in the NCIS universe in the 2024 TV lineup, but they won’t be appearing on the main show. Harmon is set to voice Gibbs in the upcoming NCIS: Origins prequel series (as revealed during a Television Critics Association winter tour panel, according to TVLine). He described his departure as a natural progression rather than a predetermined plan.

During the panel discussion, when asked about the possibility of Gibbs returning after his supposed farewell, he acknowledged that this topic is frequently brought up and expressed his appreciation for how the creative team had handled his character’s departure (for now).

I have been asked that a lot… I’ve always let the writers do what they want to do.

Mark Harmon’s response is in line with what fans would hope for, considering his reluctance to disappoint them by confirming his absence. At the same time, he likely doesn’t wish to come off as holding all the power and making the ultimate decision, despite his executive producer status.

During interviews with journalists following the TCA panel, the Summer School vet reiterated his earlier suggestion with a new revelation – no one has approached him to discuss this topic. When queried if any invitations had come his way since his departure, he simply stated: “I haven’t been contacted.”

Directly, like a phone call…? Not that I’m aware of.

It’s possible that someone from the show reached out to Mark Harmon’s representative about his return for Seasons 20 and 21, but it seems no serious efforts were made to bring him back. This isn’t entirely shocking given that it hasn’t been too long since he departed. However, with the ongoing buzz around the franchise, including the prequel “Origins” and the streaming exclusive spinoff “NCIS: Tony & Ziva,” it’s surprising how infrequently the topic of his potential return comes up.

Expert: Steven D. Binder, the showrunner, has expressed his desire in the past to preserve the image of a happy Gibbs in fans’ minds until a compelling storyline arises that justifies disrupting this serene situation. Consequently, there have been no reported discussions with the actor regarding potential future appearances in the role.

When queried about potentially reappearing in the final episode of NCIS, Mark Harmon gave an unenthusiastic response, stating:

I don’t know. It’s really about feeling like you’re fulfilled with a role, or complete with a role.

Should Binder & Co. successfully devise an engaging storyline bringing Gibbs back together with his past team, Harmon might reconsider his stance. Although it’s unlikely, I can’t help but imagine him sporting a full beard as part of the reunion.

This fall, “NCIS: Origins” and “NCIS” will make their season returns on Mondays. Prior to these shows, the premiere episode of “Poppa’s House,” a new comedy starring Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr., will air.

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2024-07-15 01:37