The Possible Return of Gibbs: A Burning Question Among NCIS Fans
Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs has been the heart of NCIS for almost two decades. And while he exited the main series in Season 19, fans have never fully accepted that his time is over. With NCIS: Origins set to debut soon, speculation is ramping up—could Harmon return? Is he orchestrating something behind the scenes?
Let’s break it down.
Harmon’s Exit Left a Huge Gap in NCIS
When Mark Harmon stepped away from NCIS in 2021, the show lost more than just its leading man. Gibbs was the team’s moral compass, the quiet protector, and the guy who always had a plan—even if he didn’t say it out loud.
Fans were gutted. Even though Harmon remained an executive producer, his absence left a noticeable void.
Why ‘NCIS: Origins’ Changes Everything
So, why is NCIS: Origins different? This spinoff is set to explore Gibbs’ early years as a young agent under Mike Franks. It stars Austin Stowell as the younger Gibbs—but here’s the kicker: Mark Harmon will narrate the show.
That’s right. Harmon is already involved, and fans are hoping that this behind-the-scenes voiceover is just the beginning of something bigger.
Narration Today, Cameo Tomorrow?
Let’s think about this: If Harmon is already doing voiceovers, it’s not a stretch to imagine him making an on-screen appearance. Whether it’s in a flash-forward, a special episode, or even a finale twist—fans are holding onto hope that Gibbs will once again appear in the flesh.
And honestly? It makes sense.
Why Gibbs Still Matters in the NCIS Universe
Even though Gibbs retired to Alaska (because, of course, he did), his legacy continues to shape the NCIS team. Characters like McGee, Torres, and Parker still reference him. And his iconic Rule Book? Still in play.
Bringing him back—even briefly—wouldn’t just satisfy fans. It would make narrative sense.
Fan Theories That Just Might Come True
Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) are packed with fan theories, and here are a few that keep popping up:
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Theory #1: Gibbs will appear in the NCIS: Origins series finale to “pass the torch” to the younger version of himself.
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Theory #2: He’ll show up in a dream sequence or memory, especially if Franks (or another original character) is reflecting back.
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Theory #3: Harmon will make a surprise appearance during a crossover event between NCIS, NCIS: Origins, and NCIS: Hawai’i.
Are they far-fetched? Not really. Especially when you consider…
The NCIS Franchise Is Expanding Fast
With NCIS: Hawai’i, NCIS: Sydney, and now NCIS: Origins, the franchise isn’t slowing down. CBS is clearly investing in the brand—and Harmon’s return could boost viewership like wildfire.
In fact, surprise returns have become somewhat of a trend in major franchises (hello, Yellowstone and The Walking Dead). It’s the golden age of character comebacks.
Mark Harmon Is Still the Face of NCIS
Even though Gary Cole now leads the flagship series, Harmon remains the face most fans associate with NCIS. When the franchise needs a ratings boost or a nostalgia shot, who do you think they’ll call?
Exactly. Gibbs.
Behind-The-Scenes Hints That Keep Fans Guessing
In interviews, cast and crew haven’t denied the possibility of a Gibbs return. In fact, they’ve gone suspiciously quiet. Harmon’s son, Sean Harmon—who previously played young Gibbs—is also producing NCIS: Origins. That’s not just a coincidence. That’s strategic storytelling.
So, while no one’s saying it out loud, all signs point to “something big” on the horizon.
Why Harmon’s Return Would Be a Smart Business Move
From a business perspective, Harmon coming back—even for one scene—would be huge. Think press coverage, social media buzz, and a massive ratings spike.
CBS knows this. They’re not running a charity; they’re running a business. And bringing back Gibbs would be a profitable decision.
Let’s Talk Logistics: Is It Even Possible?
Sure, Harmon is older now. But that doesn’t mean he can’t return. A short cameo wouldn’t require intense physical action. Plus, with today’s technology (and careful scripting), it’s easy to weave him in seamlessly.
Even a video call scene from his Alaska cabin would send fans into a frenzy.
Fans Are Practically Begging For It
If social media reactions are any indication, fans are dying for Harmon to return. Threads on Reddit say things like:
“If he narrates the series, he might show up by the end. Please let that happen.”
“He’s Gibbs. You never count him out.”
The demand is there. The platform is set. The question is—will CBS deliver?
What Would a Gibbs Return Look Like?
Here are a few realistic scenarios:
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Flash-Forward Scene: An older Gibbs reflects on his younger years after watching a home video or hearing a name from the past.
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Crossover Finale: Gibbs helps solve a case that ties back to one from his early career.
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Narrative Wrap-Up: Harmon shows up in a finale that connects all NCIS spinoffs with a unifying arc.
Each of these options offers both emotional impact and storytelling payoff.
When Could It Happen? Timeline Possibilities
If Gibbs does appear, here are the most likely windows:
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Season 1 Finale of NCIS: Origins
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Sweeps Week Special Appearance
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25th Anniversary of NCIS (which isn’t too far off)
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A future crossover event between all NCIS series
These events offer natural opportunities to bring Harmon back without disrupting current storylines.
What Harmon Has Said—And What He Hasn’t
In public interviews, Mark Harmon has been tight-lipped. But that silence? It speaks volumes. Often in TV, “no comment” means “just wait and see.” Harmon hasn’t shut the door. And as executive producer, he has the power to step back in at any time.
Conclusion: Will Gibbs Return? Never Say Never
The stars are aligning. Harmon’s still narrating. The character of Gibbs still looms large. And NCIS: Origins is practically begging for a full-circle moment.
So, could Mark Harmon return as Gibbs in NCIS: Origins or another spinoff?
Absolutely.
Maybe not today. Maybe not tomorrow. But as Gibbs himself would say: “Never assume.”
And knowing Gibbs, he’ll orchestrate something. Just wait.
FAQs
1. Will Mark Harmon appear on-screen in NCIS: Origins?
While he’s currently confirmed only as the narrator, many believe he could appear in a flash-forward or finale scene.
2. Is NCIS: Origins a reboot or a prequel?
It’s a prequel focusing on a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs during his early NCIS days under Mike Franks.
3. Has CBS confirmed any Gibbs cameos?
No official confirmation has been made, but the possibility remains open, especially since Harmon is narrating.
4. Why did Mark Harmon leave NCIS originally?
He wanted to explore other opportunities and step back from the demanding production schedule, though he remained as executive producer.
5. Could Gibbs return to the main NCIS series instead?
It’s possible, but unlikely at the moment. A cameo in the spinoff seems more fitting given the narrative direction.
