For years, NCIS fans have hoped to see Mark Harmon return on screen. Now, he finally will-but not on the original series as many had hoped since he left in season 19.
The new prequel, NCIS: Origins, focuses on a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs as he begins his career with the Naval Investigative Service, set more than a decade before the events of NCIS. While Harmon was expected to take a backseat, Deadline reports that he will appear in the premiere episode, even if briefly. David J. North, co-runner of the show, revealed that he and Gina Monreal discussed including footage of older Gibbs, and Harmon will also serve as the series narrator. North noted they are “open” to the possibility of him appearing again.
Young Gibbs is played by Austin Stowell, and viewers will also see the younger version of his mentor Mike Franks. This prequel shows a Gibbs still learning to control his emotions, a very different version from the stoic agent fans know.
The official trailer hints at a brief shot of Harmon, though it’s unclear if it’s archival footage or newly filmed scenes. His role in the premiere could show older Gibbs reflecting on his early days with NIS-perhaps writing a memoir-leaving plenty of possibilities for his appearance.
