From JAG to NCIS—Could a Legacy Character Be Coming Back?
It’s been three decades since some of our favorite military legal drama characters first appeared on TV screens. And now, fans are buzzing with excitement after a JAG star finally opened up about the possibility of returning to the NCISuniverse.
Could we really see a fan-favorite JAG character walk through the NCIS bullpen again?
The answer might surprise you.
A Quick History: How JAG Gave Birth to NCIS
JAG Was the Blueprint
Before NCIS became a global TV phenomenon, there was JAG (Judge Advocate General)—a legal drama that blended courtroom tension with military intrigue. Premiering in 1995, JAG ran for 10 seasons and introduced a variety of beloved characters.
The Birth of NCIS in a Backdoor Pilot
In Season 8 of JAG, two episodes introduced audiences to a new team: a group of Naval Criminal Investigative Service agents led by Leroy Jethro Gibbs. That “backdoor pilot” led to NCIS officially launching in 2003.
And just like that, TV history was made.
The Fan-Favorite Everyone Wants to See Again
Enter: Harmon “Harm” Rabb Jr.
If you watched JAG, you know Harmon Rabb Jr., the charming, principled Navy pilot turned lawyer played by David James Elliott. Harm wasn’t just the show’s heart—he was the soul of the entire franchise’s origin.
What Made Harm So Iconic?
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Strong moral compass
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Fighter pilot swagger
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Unresolved chemistry with Mac (Major Sarah MacKenzie)
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A perfect balance of courtroom brilliance and emotional depth
Harm’s presence was so strong that even decades later, fans still ask: “Where’s Harm now?”
Harm’s Brief NCIS Appearance—A Glimpse, Then Gone
NCIS: Los Angeles Crossover Surprise
In 2019, fans got their wish—kind of. Harm appeared in a two-part crossover on NCIS: Los Angeles, along with Mac (played by Catherine Bell). The return sparked hope that we’d finally get closure on their relationship and careers.
But… It Wasn’t Enough
While the cameo was nostalgic and thrilling, it didn’t dive deep. We learned that Harm was now the XO of the USS Allegiance, and Mac was working in the Pentagon. But their personal arc? Still unresolved.
So… Is Harm Coming Back to NCIS or Not?
David James Elliott Finally Answers
In a recent interview marking 30 years since JAG premiered, David James Elliott finally addressed the elephant in the room:
“I’ve never closed the door on Harm. If the right story came along, and it served the fans and the legacy, I’d absolutely consider it.”
That’s not just vague Hollywood talk. That’s a door wide open.
Why Now Might Be the Perfect Time
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NCIS is exploring deeper legacy arcs
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New showrunners are leaning into nostalgia
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Fans crave meaningful character returns, not just one-off cameos
If there’s ever been a time to bring Harm back—this is it.
What a Harm Return Could Look Like
Option 1: Harm Joins NCIS Temporarily
Imagine this: Gibbs gone, McGee stepping back, and the team needing military legal expertise on a high-profile case. Harm could step in as a temporary legal liaison—bringing both nostalgia and narrative weight.
Option 2: A Multi-Episode Arc With Mac
Let’s get bold. Picture a mini-arc where Harm and Mac return to help solve a case tied to their past. Maybe something they buried 20 years ago is coming back to haunt them.
Closure + tension + flashbacks = fan gold.
Option 3: A JAG Revival Inside NCIS
With so many revivals these days, what if NCIS became the home base for a JAG revival arc? The characters don’t even need their own show—just a few powerhouse episodes could rekindle the flame.
What Fans Are Saying About Harm’s Return
Social Media Is Buzzing
Ever since the interview dropped, fans have been lighting up X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit:
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“We deserve a Harm and Mac reunion!”
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“Please let this happen before NCIS ends.”
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“This would bring the franchise full circle!”
It’s Not Just Nostalgia—It’s Storytelling
Bringing Harm back isn’t just fan service. It’s an opportunity to explore how time, war, and duty change people.Harm in 2025 is a very different man than he was in 1995.
And that kind of emotional depth is what NCIS does best when it wants to.
Will NCIS Make the Move?
The Ball Is in CBS’s Court
Elliott is interested. The fans are on board. The characters are established. The only thing left is for the writers and network to say yes.
The Legacy of Crossovers
Let’s not forget: crossovers built this franchise. From NCIS: New Orleans to NCIS: Hawai’i, these moments strengthen the universe. A Harm return would tie the beginning to the present.
Final Thoughts: Is a JAG Character Really Returning to NCIS?
After 30 years, the stars seem to be aligning. David James Elliott is open, the character is beloved, and the story potential is endless.
Whether it’s one episode, a season arc, or even a spinoff revival, one thing is clear: fans want Harm back. And if NCIS is ready to honor its roots while charging into the future, this could be the perfect move.
FAQs
1. Is JAG officially connected to NCIS?
Yes! NCIS originated as a backdoor spinoff from JAG during Season 8 in 2003.
2. Did Harm and Mac ever end up together?
Their romantic tension lasted through JAG, but it was left unresolved. Their 2019 NCIS: LA appearance hinted they went separate ways—but left the door open.
3. Will Harm return to the main NCIS series or NCIS: LA?
NCIS: LA ended in 2023, so any future return would likely happen on the main NCIS or another spinoff.
4. What would David James Elliott need to return?
In his words, the “right story” that respects the legacy and character’s journey.
5. Are there plans for a full JAG revival?
Nothing official, but the interest is there. And in today’s TV world, anything’s possible.
