🎯 The New Boss With the Old-School Values: Why Parker Works 🎯
When Gary Cole joined NCIS as Alden Parker following Mark Harmon’s exit, the fan reaction was mixed — and understandably so. Replacing Gibbs? It seemed impossible. But Cole wasn’t trying to be Gibbs. And that’s exactly why his character has started to resonate deeply with viewers.
Parker is cerebral, quirky, sarcastic — and much more of a team collaborator than a lone wolf. His dry humor and sharp instincts have slowly endeared him to both fans and colleagues. He’s not trying to dominate the room. He’s trying to listen — and lead in his own way.
Behind the scenes, Gary Cole has brought gravitas and calm to the set. With decades of experience in TV and film (The West Wing, Office Space), he’s a consummate professional. His presence has helped NCIS evolve into its next era without losing its identity.
Alden Parker may never be Gibbs. But that’s okay. He’s something different — and in 2025, different feels exactly right.
