The NCIS and NCIS: Origins crossover airing on Veterans Day, November 11, may take place across two timelines, but there will still be familiar faces and characters appearing on both. For example, the character of Vera exists in both 1992 and 2025, and Mark Harmon will be appearing onscreen as Leroy Jethro Gibbs on Origins.
CBS has now released descriptions for the two episodes — the show swap time slots for the night — as well as photos. Check out the images below for a look at Harmon back as Gibbs on the prequel and Roma Maffia returning as Vera in the present-day storyline on NCIS. It all begins on Origins, with “Funny How Time Slips Away.” After a naval officer mysterious dies, Gibbs (Austin Stowell) and the NIS team head to the small dust-blown town of Serenity, California, where they encounter secret-harboring residents, an uncooperative sheriff, and an investigation that will reverberate for decades. Details about Harmon’s appearance are scarce. But both Origins executive producers and Harmon have commented on his return.
The NCIS universe is expanding again, and this time, it’s giving fans exactly what they’ve been begging for — a crossover between NCIS and NCIS: Origins. CBS has officially dropped the first-look photos from the highly anticipated event, and fans can’t stop buzzing about Mark Harmon’s and Roma Maffia’s return. Let’s dive deep into everything we know about this jaw-dropping crossover.
The Return Everyone’s Been Waiting For
When you think of NCIS, one name immediately comes to mind: Mark Harmon. After years away from the spotlight, Harmon’s return has reignited the passion of fans who have missed his calm, steady presence as Leroy Jethro Gibbs. But this time, he’s not just appearing in flashbacks or voiceovers — he’s back on set.
The crossover event will link the main NCIS series with NCIS: Origins, the prequel that dives into Gibbs’ early years in the Naval Criminal Investigative Service.
Why Mark Harmon’s Return Matters
Mark Harmon is the backbone of the NCIS franchise. Even after stepping away in Season 19, his influence never really disappeared. Fans have long speculated about a comeback — and this crossover finally delivers.
In Origins, Harmon serves as an executive producer and narrator, while actor Austin Stowell portrays a young Gibbs. But the crossover brings something even better: Harmon in person, bridging the generational gap between the two shows.
Roma Maffia’s Powerful Comeback
Another familiar face making waves is Roma Maffia, reprising her role as FBI Agent Vera Strickland. She’s no stranger to Gibbs’ world, and her sharp, no-nonsense attitude made her a fan favorite during her original run.
Her inclusion in this crossover adds another layer of nostalgia — and intrigue. Expect fiery dialogue, witty comebacks, and the kind of chemistry that only comes from actors who know how to own a scene.
First Look: Behind the Scenes of the Crossover
CBS recently released exclusive photos showing Harmon and Maffia back in action. The images capture a mix of intensity and emotion — Gibbs looking more seasoned and reflective, while Agent Strickland still exudes authority.
The photos also feature the Origins cast, hinting at timelines possibly colliding through flashbacks, declassified files, or even a shared investigation.
What the Photos Reveal About the Storyline
Although CBS is keeping the plot tightly under wraps, the photos suggest a case that transcends decades. The NCIS team may uncover an old file tied to one of Gibbs’ earliest investigations, forcing him out of retirement to lend insight.
Roma Maffia’s character could play a pivotal role in connecting the dots between past and present — perhaps uncovering truths Gibbs once buried deep.
‘NCIS: Origins’ – Setting the Stage for Something Bigger
The prequel series NCIS: Origins has already drawn praise for exploring Gibbs’ formative years, showing how his moral compass and investigative instincts took shape. With Austin Stowell portraying a young Gibbs, and Harmon narrating, the crossover now allows both versions of the character to coexist onscreen — symbolically and emotionally.
This crossover could redefine the NCIS timeline, weaving the two shows together like never before.
A Gift for Longtime NCIS Fans
Let’s be real — NCIS fans are loyal. After more than two decades, they’ve watched characters come and go, cases solved and reopened, and countless rule references from Gibbs’ infamous handbook.
Mark Harmon’s return feels like a personal thank-you to fans who never gave up on him. It’s a nostalgic moment wrapped in fresh storytelling.
How the Crossover Expands the NCIS Universe
CBS has been strategic about keeping the NCIS universe alive and growing. With NCIS: Sydney already running strong, the addition of Origins and a crossover event signals that the franchise isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
The crossover creates the perfect opportunity to link multiple timelines and possibly open doors to future spin-offs or cameos.
Fan Reactions: Exploding Across Social Media
As soon as CBS dropped the crossover images, #MarkHarmonIsBack started trending on X (formerly Twitter). Fans expressed pure excitement and nostalgia, with one fan posting, “Seeing Gibbs again feels like coming home.”
Others speculated whether Harmon’s appearance could mean a longer storyline — maybe even a limited return to the main series.
The Legacy of Leroy Jethro Gibbs
There’s something timeless about Gibbs. His quiet leadership, stern moral code, and unwavering loyalty have made him one of TV’s most iconic characters.
Even after his retirement arc in Alaska, viewers never stopped hoping for closure — or a hint of his next chapter. The crossover promises just that: a chance to reconnect with the man who started it all.
How the Cast Feels About the Reunion
Several cast members have already teased their excitement on social media. Austin Stowell, who plays young Gibbs, shared that meeting Harmon was “a full-circle moment.”
Roma Maffia called the reunion “electric,” saying it felt like “no time had passed at all.” Their enthusiasm hints that the chemistry between the two shows is stronger than ever.
Mark Harmon’s Quiet Yet Powerful Presence
Even when he’s not speaking, Harmon commands attention. His calm authority, quiet strength, and the famous Gibbs stare are trademarks that fans instantly recognize.
That’s why seeing him back in uniform, even for one episode, feels monumental. It’s more than a cameo — it’s a passing of the torch, done the Gibbs way: understated but unforgettable.
Production Secrets and Easter Eggs
Rumor has it that the crossover episode is packed with callbacks to earlier seasons — including references to Rule #10 and Gibbs’ father. Sharp-eyed fans should also keep an eye out for Easter eggs that tie directly into Origins’ timeline.
CBS executives have teased that this crossover is “for the fans,” meaning longtime viewers will find plenty of hidden gems.
When and Where to Watch
While CBS hasn’t revealed the exact air date yet, the crossover is expected to premiere during the midseason 2026 schedule. Both shows will air on CBS and stream on Paramount+, making it easy for fans to catch every emotional moment.
Why This Crossover Feels So Important
In the world of long-running TV franchises, nostalgia is powerful — but only when it’s earned. The NCIS and Origins crossover feels like a celebration, not a gimmick.
It honors the legacy of the past while setting the foundation for the next generation of agents. It’s a reminder that Gibbs’ rules still matter — and that the NCIS family always finds its way back home.
Conclusion
The NCIS & Origins crossover is shaping up to be a milestone event that celebrates everything fans love about the franchise — loyalty, justice, and family. With Mark Harmon’s emotional return and Roma Maffia’s fiery comeback, CBS is giving the audience exactly what they’ve been asking for: heart, nostalgia, and a dose of Gibbs-style leadership.
So, polish your badge and grab a coffee (black, no sugar). Gibbs is back — and it feels so good.
