Mark Harmon won't show up in NCIS: Origins Old Gibbs
NCIS fans hoped Mark Harmon would play Leroy Jethro Gibbs in the forthcoming prequel series, NCIS: Origins. Harmon has, however, successfully dashed those expectations by declaring he will not be physically showing up as Gibbs on the show.
Mark Harmon's NCIS Origins Role
Harmon will be a producer and narrator, so playing a smaller part in the prequel. He is pleased to back off so the new cast may shine. Harmon said he was happy with his present involvement during the Television Critics Association summer press tour panel, "I'm fine with the stepback role and [to] let the [new] cast do the work. It gives me great pleasure to be part of. I am a distance away part. I am simply here to assist.
Why Mark Harmon isn't showing up as Gibbs is better for NCIS: Origins
Not including Mark Harmon as Gibbs in Ncis: Origins is finally a calculated choice. The prequel centers on defining Austin Stowell as the modern iteration of the character, thus Harmon's presence could eclipse Stowell's performance.
Origins New Cast: Ncis
Young Gibbs's part has been changed with Austin Stowell. Mark Harmon used to play the part; Sean Harmon played the younger version during flashbacks. Although some people have doubts about Stowell's casting, his makeover has excited fans. Along with him will be a strong group headed by Kyle Schmid, who will be playing young Mike Franks—a character Muse Watson originally played in the original NCIS.
How Mark Harmon's absence affects NCIS: Origins
Harmon's absence may disappoint some, but overall it's good for the show. The prequel must define its own character and let Stowell to occupy the part his own. Though comparisons between Stowell and Harmon are unavoidable, they would be more pronounced if both performers were part of the show.
Harmon's narrator role will still allow one to link the original NCIS. Guiding viewers through Gibbs' early years and the events that molded him, he will function as a storyteller.
Possibility Regarding Mark Harmon's Future Return
Harmon won't show up in Ncis: Origins does not mean his return is unattainable going forward. Inspired by Young Sheldon, which has Jim Parsons narrating the events of the show, the narrative structure of the show could allow Harmon's physical appearance in next seasons while Iain Armitage performed the same on-screen.
The History of NCIS: Beginning
Ncis: Origins will follow Gibbs' early 1990s Naval Investigative Service agent path. Filmed against the backdrop of Camp Pendleton, the show will examine Gibbs' early years, the events that molded him, and the mentors—including Mike Franks—who helped him along his path.
Production of NCIS: Origins is getting ready for its premiere. Although some viewers would be disappointed without Mark Harmon, the show's emphasis on finding a fresh Gibbs and delving into his early years promises an intriguing new chapter in the NCIS universe. Though time will tell whether Harmon will finally make a comeback to the show, for now viewers should expect a fresh interpretation of the adored character.
