Fans of military dramas know there’s one name that instantly sparks nostalgia: Harmon “Harm” Rabb Jr. Played by David James Elliott, this character led JAG from 1995 until the series wrapped in 2005 — and became a cornerstone of TV military storytelling.
Now, nearly 20 years since JAG ended, fans are asking one big question again: Will David James Elliott ever reprise his iconic role on NCIS?
In an exclusive update, the 64-year-old actor finally gave fans the answer they’ve been waiting for — and his response is both hopeful and grounded.
First, a Quick Refresher: Who Is Harm and Why Do NCIS Fans Care?
Harmon Rabb Jr. — A JAG Legend
Harm was a naval aviator-turned-lawyer who fought for justice in and out of the courtroom on JAG for ten years. Charismatic, ethical, and often emotionally torn between duty and love (especially with Catherine Bell’s Mac), Harm became a fan favorite.
The NCIS Connection
Many don’t realize this, but NCIS actually began as a backdoor pilot on JAG. Without JAG, there would be no NCIS. The shared DNA runs deep, and a return by Harm would be a full-circle moment for longtime viewers.
The Exclusive: Would David James Elliott Reprise His Role?
In a recent exclusive interview, Elliott was asked point-blank: Would you return to play Harm again on NCIS or any of its spin-offs?
Here’s what he said:
“I’ve always said — if the story’s strong, I’m in. Harm is part of me. I owe a lot to that role, and if there’s a good reason to bring him back, why not? I’d love to give the fans more.”
Let’s pause for a moment: That’s a green light if we’ve ever seen one.
He’s 64, But Still Ready for Duty
Elliott may be in his 60s now, but he looks and carries himself with the same energy that made Harm iconic. Fans who saw him guest-star in NCIS: Los Angeles back in 2019 remember how effortlessly he slid back into the role.
“It felt like no time had passed,” Elliott admitted. “It was muscle memory.”
The 2019 NCIS: LA Crossover — A Taste of What Could Be
Harm’s Return Sparked a Fandom Frenzy
In 2019, CBS brought back both David James Elliott and Catherine Bell for a two-episode NCIS: Los Angeles crossover event. Fans were thrilled to see Harm and Mac again, older, wiser, and still holding on to unresolved feelings.
What We Learned From That Cameo
Harm had become the XO of a carrier, while Mac was now a high-level legal advisor. Their careers had taken different paths — and their relationship was still unfinished.
It wasn’t closure. It was a tease.
Why a Full Return to NCIS Makes Sense Now
The Timing Is Right
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The NCIS franchise is evolving.
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Longtime characters like Gibbs and Ducky are no longer on screen.
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The franchise is looking back to its roots to recapture early magic.
Who better to bring back than Harm, the man who helped start it all?
Fans Want Legacy — Not Just New Faces
Let’s face it. New characters come and go. But viewers crave connection to the original world. Harm brings that in spades.
What Would Harm’s Return Look Like?
Here Are 4 Ways CBS Could Bring Harm Back
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Special Legal Advisor on a Classified Case
Harm could consult on a politically sensitive investigation with naval implications. -
Reunion Arc With Mac
They never got closure. A multi-episode arc could wrap their story with grace. -
Training the Next Generation
Bring Harm in as a mentor for young NCIS agents. -
A JAG Revival Embedded in NCIS
Think backdoor pilot 2.0. CBS could test the waters for a JAG reboot through a Harm-led NCIS crossover.
What Does Catherine Bell Say About Returning as Mac?
Let’s not forget the other half of the duo.
Bell has also expressed interest in returning, saying:
“Mac is part of who I am. If they want to explore more of her story, I’m in.”
Imagine Harm and Mac walking into the NCIS bullpen one more time. Goosebumps, right?
Social Media Wants This — Badly
Fan Reactions Say It All
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“I don’t care what the story is. Bring back Harm and Mac. Period.”
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“NCIS needs a spark. Harm could bring it.”
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“Harm mentoring Torres or Knight? That’s a crossover I didn’t know I needed.”
The demand is real, and CBS knows it.
What Are the Chances? Let’s Be Honest
Pros:
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Elliott is willing
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Fans are hungry
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The franchise is in a nostalgic era
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There’s existing canon and character growth to build from
Cons:
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Schedules could be tricky
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Writers need the right angle
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CBS has multiple NCIS spin-offs running — room must be made
Verdict: 70/30 In Favor of “Yes”
The door is wide open. It just needs a good script and the right timing.
David James Elliott’s Words Offer Hope
He isn’t just giving fans lip service. He’s being real:
“You never say never in this business. Harm’s story isn’t done. I know it. The fans know it.”
That quote alone tells us everything.
How Would You Feel If Harm Came Back?
If you’ve followed JAG, NCIS, and every moment in between — think about it:
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Seeing Harm walk into MTAC.
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Gibbs’ old team meeting one of the originals.
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Mac and Harm finally getting the peace they deserve.
It’s poetic. And it’s doable.
Conclusion
David James Elliott has spoken — he’s open to returning as Harm, and it’s not a matter of if, but when and how.
The fans want it. The character still has depth. And the NCIS universe has the perfect platform to make it happen.
So if you’re holding your breath, keep holding it — because the dream isn’t dead. It’s just waiting for the right story to bring it back to life.
FAQs
Q1: Has CBS confirmed Harm’s return to NCIS?
A1: Not yet. But David James Elliott has said he’s open to it if the storyline is strong.
Q2: When did Harm last appear in the NCIS universe?
A2: He last appeared in 2019 during a special crossover on NCIS: Los Angeles.
Q3: Could a JAG reboot happen instead?
A3: Fans and cast members have expressed interest, but no official plans have been announced.
Q4: What is David James Elliott doing now?
A4: Elliott continues to act and recently voiced interest in meaningful legacy roles, like Harm.
Q5: Is Catherine Bell interested in returning too?
A5: Yes, she has also expressed enthusiasm about revisiting Mac if the opportunity arises.
