NCIS Confirms Exciting Update on Mark Harmon’s Return as Gibbs After Three Years Off-Screen

Mark Harmon is officially confirmed to return as Leroy Jethro Gibbs in CBS’s upcoming spin-off, NCIS: Origins. This prequel explores Gibbs’ early years with the Naval Investigative Service (NIS) in the early 90s. While up-and-comer Austin Stowell will take on the iconic role, Harmon will make a special appearance to pass the torch, alongside narrating the series.

This is Harmon’s first appearance as Gibbs since his departure from NCIS in 2021’s “Great Wide Open.” According to co-showrunner David J. North, the idea to bring Harmon back stemmed from discussions with the actor and co-showrunner Gina Monreal.

While details about Gibbs’ appearance are being kept under wraps, fans could get either an update on Gibbs’ life post-NCIS or a flashback to an unseen mission. North also hinted that Harmon’s return might not be a one-off, leaving the door open for more future appearances.

Fans are excited to see the new prequel, especially after the trailer wowed many skeptics. Despite some criticism over the cancelation of NCIS: Hawaii, anticipation for NCIS: Origins grows ahead of its premiere with the 22nd season of the main series

Pauley Perrette’s departure from NCIS after 15 seasons shocked fans, especially given her beloved character, Abby Sciuto. Initially quiet about her exit, Perrette later revealed that workplace conflict – specifically involving Mark Harmon’s dog – played a major role.

The tension began after Harmon brought his untrained dog to set, which ended in a crew member being bitten and requiring 15 stitches. Despite this, Harmon reportedly continued bringing the dog, prompting Perrette to raise concerns with CBS executives.

This led to a significant rift between Perrette and Harmon. The pair refused to film together, and during her final season, they were kept apart with scenes edited to make it appear they interacted. Their relationship remained strained until her final episode.

Perrette later claimed she was bullied and physically assaulted on set, and expressed regret about not speaking out sooner. CBS acknowledged her complaints but offered no substantial response, leaving her with lingering trauma and a firm decision never to return.

In 2019, Perrette confirmed she feared Harmon and had nightmares about the incident. Though she keeps in touch with some co-stars like Brian Dietzen, she retired from acting in 2020. Meanwhile, Mark Harmon has never publicly addressed the allegations.