At San Diego Comic‑Con 2025, Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo shared a touching behind‑the‑scenes moment: they revealed a private hand signal used between them throughout NCIS: Tony & Ziva to honor Mark Harmon’s iconic character, Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Though Harmon does not appear in Season 1, his legacy is woven into the show via this subtle tribute.(turn0news13)
What is the Gibbs Tribute Hand Signal?
Gesture Meets Legacy
Weatherly and de Pablo described how, during a previous NCIS scene set in a school or bus, Harmon used a fist‑knocking motion to communicate with them privately. Since then, the duo adapted that gesture to signal each other, saying simply: “Mark Harmon.” It’s a quiet nod they still echo in their spin‑off scenes.(turn0news13)
Why It Resonates Emotionally
Gibbs Still Guides the Story
While Gibbs doesn’t appear in Tony & Ziva, his shadow looms large over Tony and Ziva’s journey. That secret gesture embodies his continuing influence—suggesting he remains their moral compass even from afar.(turn0news13)
A Bond Beyond the Page
The gesture reflects personal history and mutual respect. It signals a connection born from 20+ years of working alongside Harmon—a legacy moment shared quietly but profoundly every time they make it.(turn0news13)
How the Tribute Unfolds at Comic‑Con
After previewing the first ten minutes of the pilot, showrunner John McNamara asked, “What was that gesture?” de Pablo answered simply: “Mark Harmon.” It became a full-circle moment for the audience—revealing something they hadn’t even realized they were seeing.(turn0news13)
Why This Tribute Matters to Fans
| Why It Matters | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Emotional continuity | Gibbs remains part of the universe |
| Actor-driven homage | Weatherly & de Pablo respect his legacy |
| Subtle, not ostentatious | Similar tone to NCIS’s grounded style |
What Else Holds Gibbs’ Legacy in Place
Showrunner Promises Name-Drops and References
McNamara confirmed future episodes may include indirect nods to Gibbs or archival callbacks—though no cameo is scheduled. The show intends to maintain the broader NCIS-verse continuity where Gibbs remains central to lore.(turn0news13, turn0search20)
Connections to Other NCIS Spinoffs
The wider NCIS franchise—including NCIS: Origins, which focuses on young Gibbs—acts as narrative reinforcement for Gibbs’ enduring mythos. His charisma still anchors the expanding universe.(turn0search25, turn0search4)
Fan Reactions Overflowing with Nostalgia
Reddit discussions around Gibbs’ absence at Ducky’s tribute episode noted disappointment—but also accepted that the franchise evolution meant it was time to let Tony and Ziva take the lead. The hand signal offers emotional closure in lieu of a physical presence.(turn0reddit22, turn0reddit23)
Is This the Start of More Easter Eggs?
Possibly. The choice to embed Gibbs in spirit rather than appearance suggests NCIS: Tony & Ziva may blend legacy and invention through respectful callbacks, not nostalgic cameos—letting it stand alone sans the past.(turn0search2, turn0search10)Conclusion
Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo’s tribute—a simple hand signal referencing Mark Harmon—says more than any cameo could. It’s a deeply personal and respectful homage that keeps Gibbs alive at the emotional core of NCIS: Tony & Ziva. Fans can trust that, even in his absence, Gibbs’ spirit remains woven into the narrative, honoring legacy while stepping boldly into a new story.
🙋 FAQs
Q1: Does Mark Harmon appear in NCIS: Tony & Ziva Season 1?
No. Harmon currently does not appear, but his legacy is honored through subtle callbacks like the private hand signal.(turn0news13)
Q2: What is the meaning behind the Tiva hand signal?
It’s a gesture Tony and Ziva share as a quiet tribute to Gibbs, rooted in an earlier NCIS scene where Harmon communicated similarly on set.(turn0news13)
Q3: Is Gibbs referenced elsewhere in the spin-off?
The showrunner teased further nods and name-drops in the series, though no full cameo is confirmed.(turn0news13, turn0search20)
Q4: How does NCIS: Origins connect back to Gibbs’ story?
NCIS: Origins is a younger Gibbs prequel executive produced by Mark Harmon himself—deepening the franchise’s connection to Gibbs’ legacy.(turn0search25)
Q5: How have fans reacted to Gibbs’ absence?
While many fans missed Harmon at Ducky’s tribute episode, they welcomed Tony’s return. The subtle gesture in Tony & Ziva gives a quieter, more meaningful homage.
