Mark Harmon's NCIS Return: Examining Gibbs' Future
With NCIS: Origins' forthcoming premiere, the excitement for Mark Harmon's comeback to the NCIS franchise has reached fever pitch. Set in Mike Franks' NIS team, this prequel series examines the early years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs, so preparing the ground for his legendary career in the original series. Harmon's participation as narrator and co-producer fuels rumors of a possible comeback even though he is not scheduled to replay Gibbs on the main show.
Mark Harmon provides a direct quote on NCIS return.
Harmon, on a recent press tour, said when asked about a possible comeback to the main Ncis series: "It wasn't so much a decision to leave, but the right timing to push away a little bit. The way they handled the character and the plot they developed delighted me. And the performance went on. Many times, I have been asked this.I have always let the authors pursue their own interests. Directly, akin to a phone call? Not that I am aware of. I'm not sure [should I return for the last series finale]. [Chuckles] I doubt he is still standing in the stream."
Possible NCIS: Origins Affecting Gibbs' Return
Harmon's comment seems to exclude any quick return, but his participation in Ncis: Origins might open doors for his re-entry onto the main series. Set in the 1990s, the prequel series lets the writers delve into Gibbs's early years and highlight his past relationships, so enabling possibly seamless integration of him back into the original NCIS series.
Motives behind Gibbs's comeback to the main show
Among the major events the NCIS team has experienced that would have benefited from Gibbs' presence is Ducky's tribute episode and the 1000th episode. Although CBS has repeatedly said Harmon's door is open for his return, the producers are looking to craft a compelling and significant narrative for his character, so excluding a simple cameo.
NCIS: Origins and Effects on the Franchise
Set before the first NCIS series, Ncis: Origins explores Leroy Jethro Gibbs's career prior to his leading the MCRT squad. The show promises to explore his relationships with former partners and colleagues as well as the roots of his famous investigative abilities. This prequel series could provide insightful analysis of Gibbs's character development and maybe open the path for his comeback to the original NCIS.
NCIS: The Currently Active Team
Former FBI agent with a cool head and sharp wit, Special Agent Alden Parker leads the NCIS team now. Along with NCIS Special Agent Timothy McGee, an MIT graduate with computer knowledge, NCIS Special Agent Nicholas "Nick" Torres—known for his erratic nature and resiliency—and NCIS Special Agent Jessica Knight, a strong REACT agent focused in on hostage negotiations. Additional help for the team comes from NCIS Director Leon Vance, who manages agency operations; Jimmy Palmer, the medical examiner; and Kasie Hines, the forensic scientist. They address several crimes involving Navy or Marine Corps affiliations taken collectively.
Although Mark Harmon's future on NCIS is yet unknown, his participation in Ncis: Origins makes viewers hopeful for Leroy Jethro Gibbs's possible comeback. Whether Gibbs returns the NCIS universe for a grand finale or a major storyline, his presence will surely add thrill and nostalgia.
