For the longest time, we’ve believed Gibbs was the best leader in the NCIS universe. He was dedicated to his job and his team, setting up rules that would keep everyone alive and protected. It seemed like he was going to be one of those agents who would rather die on the job than retire. While Gibbs finding peace in Alaska was a great ending for him, it wasn’t believable considering how dedicated to his work he always was.

Then, Mark Harmon decided he wanted to leave the series in NCIS season 19. The show had to find a way to write the character out, and killing him off wasn’t an option. While Gibbs’ finding peace in Alaska was a great ending for him, it wasn’t believable considering how dedicated to his work he always was. Meanwhile, Hetty has been through a near-death experience, and she continues to put her focus on the job. She has always put her life on the line and made it out the other side. She’s a trooper, making her the best NCIS leader.

When it comes to NCIS and its spin-off NCIS: Los Angeles, fans have spent years debating who the best team leader truly is. Leroy Jethro Gibbs, the gruff yet brilliant investigator in NCIS, has long been celebrated as an iconic figure. But Hetty Lange, the mysterious and resourceful operations manager in NCIS: Los Angeles, proves through her ongoing influence, resilience, and leadership style that she outshines Gibbs in more ways than one. Let’s break down why Hetty’s leadership continues to prove that Gibbs might not be the best team leader in the NCIS universe.

The Legacy of Gibbs in NCIS

Gibbs is the face of NCIS. His rule-driven style—“Gibbs’ Rules”—shaped the team’s culture. He demanded loyalty, discipline, and silence when needed. Fans admire his no-nonsense approach, but his leadership had flaws. His rigid personality sometimes left little room for growth among team members.

Hetty Lange: The Quiet Powerhouse

Unlike Gibbs, Hetty doesn’t lead from the front lines with a gun in hand. Instead, she works behind the scenes, pulling strings, making critical decisions, and mentoring her team like a seasoned strategist. Her mysterious past in intelligence gives her an edge Gibbs never had—an unmatched ability to outthink, outmaneuver, and protect her people without sacrificing her humanity.

Gibbs vs. Hetty: Leadership Styles Compared

Gibbs: Rule-Driven and Authoritative

• Strict adherence to rules.

• Commands respect through fear and discipline.

• Keeps personal emotions buried deep.

Hetty: Nurturing Yet Strategic

• Guides with wisdom and mentorship.

• Uses resources creatively to achieve success.

• Builds deep, lasting bonds with her team.

It’s clear that Hetty’s balance of compassion and cunning leadership sets her apart.

Hetty’s Longevity in the NCIS Universe

One undeniable point: Hetty is still working. Even after years of service, danger, and loss, she continues to operate effectively. Gibbs, on the other hand, eventually walked away from his team. Longevity in leadership matters—Hetty proves that her dedication is unmatched.

Mentorship: Hetty’s Secret Weapon

Hetty doesn’t just give orders—she molds future leaders. G. Callen and Sam Hanna grew under her guidance, and she continues to influence new recruits. Gibbs, while respected, often pushed people away with his strict personality. Hetty, on the other hand, invests in her team’s growth.

The Human Side of Hetty vs. Gibbs

Gibbs is haunted by his tragic past, often isolating himself emotionally. Hetty also carries secrets and burdens, but she uses her experiences to connect with her people. She shows empathy where Gibbs shows distance. This human touch cements her as a stronger, more relatable leader.

Global Reach of Hetty’s Influence

While Gibbs mainly handled domestic cases, Hetty’s role spans globally. She has ties to intelligence agencies, governments, and shadowy figures worldwide. Her influence extends beyond one team, proving her leadership operates on a much larger scale.

Hetty’s Strategic Mind vs. Gibbs’ Instincts

Gibbs relies heavily on gut instinct, a trait that makes him a strong investigator but a limited strategist. Hetty, however, plays chess when everyone else is playing checkers. She anticipates threats before they arise, orchestrating solutions that save lives on a global scale.

Resilience in the Face of Danger

Time and again, Hetty disappears into dangerous missions, only to re-emerge with critical intelligence or to save her team. Her willingness to sacrifice herself speaks volumes. Gibbs, though brave, often remained in one sphere of influence, rarely stepping into Hetty’s world of espionage.

Hetty’s Moral Compass

While Gibbs’ black-and-white view of justice often put him at odds with superiors, Hetty understands the shades of gray. She adapts to situations, knowing when to bend rules to achieve greater good. That flexibility makes her more effective in complex, real-world operations.

The Emotional Anchor of NCIS: Los Angeles

Hetty isn’t just a boss—she’s a parental figure. Her bond with Callen, who grew up in the foster system, highlights her ability to be more than just a leader. She becomes family. Gibbs, meanwhile, rarely lets personal emotions dictate his leadership. This makes Hetty the emotional core her team relies on.

Why Hetty’s Leadership Style Endures

Gibbs’ era has ended, but Hetty continues. Her adaptability allows her to stay relevant as the world changes. Whether it’s cyber warfare, terrorism, or political espionage, Hetty always finds a way to stay ahead.

Fan Reactions: Team Gibbs vs. Team Hetty

The NCIS fandom is split. Some remain loyal to Gibbs for his tough-love approach. Others argue Hetty has always been the superior leader. Social media debates continue to prove that Hetty’s influence resonates deeply with fans, making her stand out as the enduring leader in the franchise.

The Bigger Picture: Hetty’s Legacy

Hetty Lange is more than a character—she’s a symbol of resilience, intelligence, and heart. Gibbs may have laid the foundation for NCIS leadership, but Hetty built an empire of loyalty and influence that outshines his contributions.

Conclusion

Hetty continuing her work is more than just dedication—it’s proof that true leadership isn’t about rules or instinct alone. It’s about adaptability, compassion, and the ability to build future leaders. While Gibbs will always be iconic, Hetty proves she’s the superior team leader in the NCIS universe.

FAQs

1. Why is Hetty considered a better leader than Gibbs?
Because Hetty blends strategy, compassion, and mentorship, making her influence longer-lasting than Gibbs’.

2. Did Gibbs ever mentor his team like Hetty?
Gibbs inspired loyalty, but his mentorship was limited compared to Hetty’s nurturing style.

3. What makes Hetty’s leadership unique in NCIS?
Her global reach, mysterious past, and ability to adapt to modern threats make her a one-of-a-kind leader.

4. Why did Gibbs leave while Hetty continued working?
Gibbs chose peace after years of trauma, while Hetty remained driven by duty and loyalty to her team.

5. Could Hetty and Gibbs work together as leaders?
Absolutely, but their contrasting styles would create tension—Hetty’s adaptability versus Gibbs’ rigid rules.