Leroy Jethro Gibbs Is Gone, But Never Forgotten
When Mark Harmon exited NCIS in Season 19, fans feared the series would lose its soul. After all, Leroy Jethro Gibbs was the backbone of the team for nearly two decades. Yet now, heading into Season 23, NCIS is not only surviving without him — it’s evolving. But even in his absence, the shadow of Gibbs lingers in every rule, every interrogation, every quiet moment of reflection. The show may have moved forward, but it’s still walking in the footprints Gibbs left behind.
Vance, Parker, And The Ghost Of Gibbs
Director Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll) continues to honor Gibbs’ ethos, even as he adapts to modern threats and shifting team dynamics. The introduction of Alden Parker (Gary Cole) was jarring at first — he’s no copy of Gibbs, and that’s exactly what makes him work. Parker’s more collaborative, intellectual approach offers something new, while still respecting the grounded grit Gibbs brought to every case.
Interestingly, Gibbs isn’t missing from the show. He’s just not present. Mentions of his name still cause a pause. His rules — especially Rule 9: “Never go anywhere without a knife” — are still gospel. And recent episodes hint that, emotionally, the team hasn’t let him go completely.
Will Gibbs Return?
There’s growing speculation that Mark Harmon may return for a cameo or even a short arc, especially as the franchise celebrates its longevity. Harmon remains an executive producer, and showrunners have teased that “the door is always open.” With Harmon recently seen attending NCIS-related events, the idea doesn’t seem far-fetched. Whether he comes back or not, one thing is clear: Gibbs isn’t just a former character — he’s a living legend in the NCIS universe.
