After nearly two decades as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, Mark Harmon’s departure from NCIS has created major waves across one of TV’s longest-running cr1me dramas. Fans have long regarded Harmon as the heart of the series, and his exit marks a significant turning point.
Why Mark Harmon Left
For over 18 years, Harmon returned to NCIS because the role continued to challenge him. But in a recent featurette on the Season 19 DVD, the 71-year-old actor hinted that Gibbs no longer offered him anything new to explore as an artist. While he didn’t explicitly say he retired from acting, Harmon confirmed Gibbs has settled into a quiet life in Alaska-and he’s content with that ending.
Harmon also revealed a personal reason behind his career decisions. Earlier in life, he once turned down a major film role that required relocating to New Guinea because he didn’t want to miss milestones in his young children’s lives. That family-first mindset shaped much of his career-including his commitment to NCIS.
The Future of NCIS Without Gibbs
Gibbs’ exit leaves a major void, but the show has already reshaped itself around Timothy McGee, played by Sean Murray. McGee now steps forward as the series’ central character.
Murray teased that a classic McGee quirk-his cr1me-novel writing-will return. Fans will see McGee working again under his pen name, Tom E. GemCity, introducing new characters and storylines in his books. The show will also explore more of McGee’s personal life with his wife, Delilah, as they shift into a new phase of adulthood.
New Opening Credits and Gibbs’ Possible Return
Season 20’s opening credits marked the first time NCIS aired without Harmon included-a major emotional shift for viewers. CBS executives have said the door remains open if Harmon ever wants to return, even for a brief arc. Because Gibbs’ storyline was left open-ended, a future comeback remains possible.
Mark Harmon’s Life After NCIS
Since leaving the show, Harmon has continued to stay connected behind the scenes. He still receives every script and visits the set on occasion-most notably supporting cast member Diona Reasonover when she wrote her first episode.
Off-screen, Harmon is enjoying family life. His son recently married in the Maldives, giving the Harmons a new daughter-in-law and making this past Thanksgiving particularly special.
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