When Mark Harmon said goodbye to NCIS in 2021, fans thought it was the end of an era. For nearly two decades, Harmon’s steady hand as Leroy Jethro Gibbs anchored the CBS juggernaut, making him not only a fan favorite but also the moral compass of one of TV’s longest-running dramas. His farewell in Season 19 felt like the closing of a chapter. But now, whispers from behind the scenes suggest Harmon may not be finished with Gibbs after all.
Retirement Isn’t Sitting Well with Gibbs
For most actors, stepping away from such a defining role after 19 seasons might feel like the natural move. But according to insiders, Harmon has discovered that “retirement” isn’t exactly his speed.
“He finds working with his former colleagues a lot more stimulating than staying home with a list of repairs to be done,” a source close to the actor revealed. “It seems his retirement plans have changed, and he wants to do more cameos on NCIS, in addition to the narration he does. Plus, he’s looking for other acting and producing work.”
That’s good news for fans who still miss Gibbs’ signature coffee cup, silver hair, and steadfast rule book.
From Lead Actor to Mentor on NCIS: Origins
Mark Harmon may not be at the helm of NCIS anymore, but he hasn’t wandered far from the family. He’s still deeply involved as an executive producer and recently lent his voice to narrate NCIS: Origins, the newest spinoff that takes viewers back to the early years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs.
Starring Austin Stowell as a young Gibbs, Kyle Schmid as Mike Franks, and Mariel Molino as Special Agent Lala Dominguez, Origins lets fans witness the formative years that shaped Gibbs into the man we first met in 2003. Harmon’s involvement provides an authenticity that fans crave—especially when Gibbs’ own backstory is being told.
“Mark gave the series another layer of depth,” one producer explained. “His presence as narrator makes it feel like Gibbs himself is telling the story.”
Austin Stowell on Gibbs’ Legacy and Harmon’s Advice
For Austin Stowell, stepping into the shoes of Gibbs was daunting. After all, few characters in television history are as instantly recognizable—or as beloved—as Harmon’s stoic Marine-turned-agent. But the actor didn’t take on the role without guidance.
“He was vocal about—maybe not what to do—but certainly guiding me more in terms of posture and mindset,” Stowell shared. “Things that I’ve learned to inhabit all the more over time.”
He described Harmon as a “welcoming” figure who leads by example, creating a comfortable environment for the cast. “He’s really such a wonderful leader for us because he makes everybody feel so comfortable,” Stowell added.
It’s that kind of mentorship—and Harmon’s behind-the-scenes presence—that makes fans hopeful they haven’t seen the last of Gibbs onscreen.
Could Gibbs Return to the Flagship NCIS?
The big question remains: Will Gibbs step back into the world of NCIS in person? While nothing is confirmed, speculation is heating up. A well-placed cameo in the flagship series—or even a larger guest arc—could provide closure for storylines left open when Gibbs quietly retired to Alaska.
Producers have been careful not to rule anything out. With Harmon’s growing interest in returning, even in smaller ways, fans might just get their wish.
Why Gibbs Still Matters
Even in absence, Gibbs looms large over NCIS. His leadership style, moral code, and unforgettable presence remain the heartbeat of the franchise. And with Harmon himself itching to get back into the fold, the possibility of a reunion has reignited excitement among longtime viewers.
For now, Mark Harmon continues to enjoy his role as producer, mentor, and narrator. But one thing is clear: Gibbs’ story might not be finished. After all, if there’s one thing we’ve learned from 19 seasons of NCIS, it’s that Leroy Jethro Gibbs never really walks away—he always finds a way back.
